Yarn sits neatly on the table, the hook glinting in the afternoon light, and the project begins to take shape with the first loop of the magic ring. There is a specific kind of magic in watching a simple circle transform into something with personality, and these Cider Mill Apple Coasters do exactly that. As you work through the rounds, the flat disc slowly gains curves, mimicking the gentle swell of a fresh-picked apple. It is a grounded, satisfying process that turns basic stitches into a cozy autumn tradition, perfect for sipping cider while you create.
Why This Project Works
These coasters are more than just functional accessories; they are a celebration of fall aesthetics in miniature form. The design captures the essence of a cider mill visit—the crisp air, the scent of cinnamon, and the joy of apple picking—without requiring a massive time investment. What makes this project truly stand out is its versatility. You can create a classic red and green set for a traditional look, or experiment with deep burgundy, golden yellow, and soft pink to match your specific kitchen decor. The inclusion of the sliced apple variation adds a delightful twist, allowing you to mix solid apples with “slices” featuring creamy centers and tiny embroidered seeds. Because they use such a small amount of yarn, they are the perfect way to utilize cotton scraps from your stash while adding a touch of handmade charm to your table setting.
Project Overview
The Cider Mill Apple Coasters are a quick, approachable crochet project ideal for beginners who are comfortable with basic stitches. The pattern begins with a magic ring and works in joined rounds. The first three rounds establish a flat circle using double crochet increases. Round 4 is the pivotal moment where the coaster transforms into an apple shape using a combination of slip stitches, half double crochet, and double crochet to create gentle curves. The design includes a stem worked directly onto the coaster and a separate leaf that is sewn into place. A sliced apple variation is also included for those who want to add variety to their set.
Materials
-
Yarn (Solid Apple): Crafter’s Secret, size 4 worsted weight, 100% cotton, 120 yds per 2.5 oz skein.
- 16 Yards per coaster (Colorways shown: Red and Vintage Green)
- 2 Yards per coaster for stem and leaf (Brown and Vintage Green)
-
Yarn (Sliced Apple Variation): Dishie, size 4 worsted weight, 100% cotton, 190 yds per 100 gm skein.
- 13 Yards per coaster (Shown in Swan colorway for the creamy center)
- US G 6/4.0mm crochet hook
- Tapestry needle
- Scissors
Gauge and Finished Size
The finished coaster is approximately 4.5” wide. As with most crochet projects, your personal tension may vary slightly, but using the recommended hook size and worsted weight cotton yarn will help achieve the intended shape and durability.
Abbreviations
The pattern uses standard US crochet terminology:
- ch(s) = chain(s)
- dc = double crochet
- hdc = half double crochet
- sc = single crochet
- sl st = slip stitch
- st = stitch(es)
Pattern Notes
These coasters are designed to be worked in joined rounds. The structure relies on increasing in the first three rounds to create a flat base. Round 4 introduces the shaping stitches that give the coaster its apple-like curvature. The stem is crocheted directly onto the coaster using brown yarn, while the leaf is worked separately with green yarn. To create the leaf, you will work stitches along one side of a starting chain, rotate your work, and crochet along the opposite side to form the leaf shape. The leaf is then sewn into place near the stem.
For the sliced apple variation, you will work the first three rounds in cream yarn, switch to your apple color for the final shaping round, and use scraps of brown yarn to embroider seeds in the center.
Pattern Instructions
Apple Coaster
Begin with a magic ring. Work in joined rounds.
Rounds 1-3: Work simple rounds of double crochet with increases to create a flat circle.
Round 4: This round shapes the apple. Use a combination of slip stitches, half double crochet, and double crochet to create gentle curves at the top and bottom. At the end of this round, change to brown yarn to crochet the stem directly onto the coaster.
Apple Stem
Continuing with brown yarn:
ch 8, hdc in 3rd ch from hook, hdc in next 5 ch, sl st to 2nd sl st from row 4. Fasten off yarn and weave in ends.
Leaf
With green yarn:
ch 7
R1: hdc in 2nd ch from hook, dc in next 2 ch, hdc in next ch, sc in next ch, sl st in last ch.
Rotate work to work stitches on the opposite side of chain as follows:
sl st in same st, sc in next st, hdc in next st, dc in next 2 st, (hdc and sl st) in last st.
Join with an invisible join to first hdc in round. Fasten off green yarn and sew leaf to coaster.
Sliced Apple Variation
Work R1-3 of apple coaster in cream yarn. Then switch to apple color yarn for R4 and follow the directions for the remainder of the apple coaster. Use scraps of brown yarn to embroider seeds on the coaster.
Assembly
Once the coaster, stem, and leaf are complete, use your tapestry needle to weave in all loose ends. Sew the leaf securely to the coaster near the base of the stem. If you are making the sliced apple variation, embroider the seeds using brown yarn scraps in the center of the cream section before finishing.
Tips
- Stash Busting: These coasters are quick and require very little yarn, making them perfect for using up small amounts of worsted weight cotton from your stash.
- Color Play: Don’t feel limited to traditional red and green. Try deep burgundy, golden yellow, or soft pink for a unique look.
- Mixed Sets: Create a fun coordinating set by mixing solid apples with the sliced apple variation.
- Cotton Benefits: Using 100% cotton yarn ensures the coasters are absorbent, durable, and hold their shape beautifully after washing.
FAQs
Are these coasters beginner-friendly?
Yes. If you are comfortable with basic crochet stitches such as chain, single crochet, half double crochet, double crochet, and slip stitch, you will find this project approachable. It also involves working in joined rounds and changing colors, which are fundamental skills.
What type of yarn is best for coasters?
Worsted weight 100% cotton yarn is recommended. Cotton is absorbent and durable, making it ideal for protecting surfaces from condensation. It also holds its shape well and is easy to find locally.
How do I make the sliced apple variation?
Work the first three rounds in cream yarn. Switch to your desired apple color for Round 4 to shape the outside. Finally, use brown yarn scraps to embroider small seeds in the center of the cream section.
Can I use acrylic yarn instead of cotton?
While you can use acrylic, cotton is preferred for coasters because it is more absorbent and durable. Acrylic may not protect surfaces as effectively against moisture.
How many coasters can I make from one skein?
Since each coaster uses only about 16 yards of main color and 2 yards for accents, you can make many coasters from a single skein, making this a very economical project.
Ready to bring a little bit of fall to your table? Grab your hook and start crocheting your own apple harvest today. If you enjoy small, quick projects, you might also like exploring easy autumn crochet patterns or checking out simple dishcloth designs for more cozy home decor ideas.
Pin This Crochet Pattern!
