Hello, fellow makers! Today, I’m so excited to share a project that’s not only incredibly practical but also brings a burst of sunshine into any space: our Crochet Sunflower Coasters and matching storage basket. I just love how these little sunflowers instantly cheer up my coffee table, and the basket keeps them neatly organized.
This pattern is fantastic for anyone who loves quick, satisfying projects. Whether you’re a beginner looking to expand your skills beyond the basics, or an experienced crocheter wanting a fun stash-busting project, these coasters are perfect. You’ll work in the round using simple stitches and some easy shaping to create these charming flowers. Plus, the accompanying basket makes it a complete set, ideal for gifting or adding a handmade touch to your home décor!
Crochet Sunflower Coasters & Basket Pattern
Materials
- #3 light (light worsted, DK, 8ply) cotton blend or 100% cotton yarn, skein weight 1.76 ounces/50 grams (103 yards/95 meters)
- Color A: 1 skein dark brown (for flower center, enough for six coasters)
- Color B: 1 skein gold (for flower petals, a tiny portion needed)
- Color C: 1 skein green (for basket, about half a skein needed)
Finished Size
- Coaster Size: Approximately 5.5 inches (14 cm) from petal tip to petal tip
- Basket Size: Approximately 5.5 inches (14 cm) in diameter and 1.5 inches (4 cm) in height
Hook and Tools
- 3.75 mm crochet hook
- Yarn needle
- Scissors
Abbreviations
- BL — back of loop
- ch — chain stitch
- col — color
- dc — double crochet
- DC2CL — double crochet 2 cluster
- DC3CL — double crochet 3 cluster
- hdc — half double crochet
- hk — hook
- lp/lps — loop/loops
- MR — magic ring
- prev — previous
- rnd — round
- rpt — repeat
- sc — single crochet
- sk — skip
- sl st — slip stitch
- sp/sps — space/spaces
- st/sts — stitch/stitches
- YO — yarn over
Pattern Notes
- Chain 3 at the beginning of a round counts as 1 double crochet.
- Chain 2 at the beginning of a round counts as 1 half double crochet.
- Chain 1 at the beginning of a round counts as 1 single crochet.
- The pattern is worked in the round.
- For the coaster, Rounds 1-2 form the center, and Rounds 3-4 form the petals.
- For the basket, Rounds 1-6 form the base, and Rounds 7-11 form the sides.
- Gauge is not critical for this project, but matching it will ensure your items are the same size as the pattern.
Gauge
15 double crochet stitches × 10 rows = 4 × 4 inches / 10 × 10 cm square
Special Stitches
- BL (Back of Loop): Work into the back loop of the stitch instead of both loops. This creates texture and helps shape the petals. In top-down view, the back loop is the loop furthest away from you.
- DC2CL (Double Crochet 2 Cluster): Work 2 double crochets into the same stitch, joined together as one. Abbreviated pattern: dc2CL = 2 dc in same stitch, joined with chain 1. Used for decorative rounds on the basket.
- DC3CL (Double Crochet 3 Cluster): Work 3 double crochets into the same stitch and joined together as one. Abbreviated pattern: dc3CL = 3 dc in same stitch, joined with chain 1. Used for decorative edges around the basket.
Instructions
Sunflower Coaster
To Begin: Using Color A (dark brown), create a foundation ring or a magic ring.
- Foundation Ring: Chain 3, then insert the hook into the first chain stitch and join with a slip stitch to form a circle.
- Magic Ring (MR): Make a magic ring.
Round 1 (col A): Ch 3 (counts as 1 dc), work 17 dc into the center ring. Join with sl st at the top of ch-3. If using a magic circle, pull the circle tight. (18 dc)
Round 2: Ch 3 (counts as 1 dc), 1 dc in the same sp as ch-3, then 2 dc in each st of the prev rnd. Join with sl st in top of ch-3, ch 1, and fasten off. (36 dc)
Round 3: Ch 3 (counts as 1 dc), 1 dc in the same sp as ch-3, ch 5, 2 dc in next st. *Sk 2 sts, 2 dc in next st, ch 5, 2 dc in next st. Repeat from * 7 more times. Sl st in top of ch-3. (18 x 2 dc, 9 x ch 5-sps)
Round 4 (col B): Sl st into ch-5 sp, then work (5 dc, ch 3, 1 hdc into the base of ch-3, 5 dc) in the same ch-5 sp, 1 sc in the next sp. *(5 dc, ch 3, 1 hdc into the base of ch-3, 5 dc) in next ch-5 sp, 1 sc in the next sp. Repeat from * 7 more times. Sl st in top of the first dc, ch 1, fasten off, and weave in ends.
You have now crocheted one sunflower coaster. Repeat steps 1-4 to make additional coasters.
Matching Storage Basket
To Begin: Using Color C (green), create a foundation ring or a magic ring.
- Foundation Ring: Chain 3, then insert the hook into the first chain stitch and join with a slip stitch to form a circle.
- Magic Ring (MR): Make a magic ring.
Round 1 (col C): Ch 3 (counts as 1 dc), work 17 dc into the foundation ring. Join with sl st in top of ch-3. If using a magic circle, pull the circle tight. (18 dc)
Round 2: Ch 3 (counts as 1 dc), 1 dc in the same sp as ch-3, then 2 dc in each st of the prev rnd. Join with sl st in top of ch-3 to join. (36 dc)
Round 3: Ch 3 (counts as 1 dc), 1 dc in each st of prev rnd. Sl st in top of ch-3 to join. (36 dc)
Round 4: Ch 3 (counts as 1 dc), *2 dc in next st, 1 dc in next. Repeat from * to the end of rnd. Sl st in top of ch-3 to join. (54 dc)
Round 5: Ch 3 (counts as 1 dc), 1 dc in each st of the prev rnd. Sl st in top of ch-3 to join. (54 dc)
Round 6: Ch 2 (counts as 1 hdc), 1 hdc in next st, 2 hdc in next st. *1 hdc in next 2 sts, 2 hdc in next st. Repeat from * to end of rnd. Sl st in top of ch-2 to join. (72 hdc)
This completes the base of the basket. The base should be about the same size as your sunflower coaster from petal tip to petal tip.
Round 7: Ch 1 (counts as 1 sc), 1 sc in the BL of each st of the prev rnd. Sl st in top of ch-1 to join. (72 sc)
Round 8: Ch 3 and DC2CL (counts as 1 DC3CL) in the same sp as ch-3, ch 1, sk 1 st. *1 DC3CL in next st, ch 1, sk 1 st. Repeat from * to end of rnd. Sl st into top of ch-3 to join. (36 DC3CL and 36 x ch 1-sps)
Round 9: Ch 3 (counts as 1 dc), 1 dc in top of DC3CL of prev rnd. *1 dc in next sp, 1 dc in top of DC3CL of prev rnd. Repeat from * to end of the round. Sl st into the top of ch-3 to join. (72 dc)
Round 10: Ch 2 (counts as 1 hdc), 1 hdc in each st of the prev rnd. Sl st in top of ch-2 to join. (72 hdc)
Round 11: Ch 1 (counts as 1 sc), 1 sc in each st of the prev rnd. Sl st in top of ch-1, ch 1, fasten off, and weave in ends. (72 sc)
Finishing
Once you have finished your coasters and basket, and woven in all loose ends, gently shape them for the best final appearance.
- For Coasters: To help them lay flat, place each coaster on a flat surface, hold it down gently with one hand, and carefully pull each petal outward with the other hand. This helps open up the sunflower shape and improve symmetry.
- Blocking: For an even more polished finish, you may wish to block your coasters. Blocking involves lightly wetting or steaming the finished piece and shaping it to the correct size. This helps even out stitches, improve structure, and create a flatter, more professional finish.
- Weaving Ends: Use a yarn needle to weave in all loose ends securely. For the basket, ensure all ends are fastened tightly to maintain its shape and durability.
Emma’s Tips
I find that choosing the right yarn truly makes a difference for projects like this. Cotton yarn is my go-to for coasters because it’s super absorbent, durable, and holds its shape beautifully against heat. While acrylic yarn can work, it might not be as absorbent and could flatten out over time. Don’t be afraid to experiment with colors! You can create a classic sunflower look or go for something vibrant and modern. For a cohesive aesthetic, try using multiple shades of yellow for an ombre effect, or embrace autumnal tones for a cozy fall vibe. And remember, crocheting a sun-themed project can be a wonderful way to brighten your day!
Customizing Your Sunflower Coasters
One of the joys of this pattern is how easily you can customize it with different color combinations. Here are some ideas to inspire your next set:
- Classic Sunflower: Yellow petals, brown center. Traditional and timeless.
- Vibrant Sunflower: Orange, red, or purple petals, teal or turquoise center. A bold, modern twist.
- Pastel Sunflower: Soft pink, lavender, or mint petals, cream or light brown center. Delicate and ideal for spring.
- Monochromatic Sunflower: Multiple shades of yellow, coordinated center tones. Creates a clean, cohesive aesthetic.
- Ombre Sunflower: Light to dark gradient yarn (e.g., pale yellow → deep gold). Adds depth and visual interest.
- Autumn Sunflower: Deep orange, rust, and warm brown tones. Perfect for fall décor.
- Sunset Sunflower: Red, burnt orange, golden yellow petals, dark brown or burgundy center. Inspired by warm sunset tones.
- Tropical Sunflower: Hot pink, electric blue, sunny yellow petals, lime green or turquoise center. Bright, fun, and playful design.
Feel free to mix and match colors or use variegated yarn to create your own unique version of these crochet sunflower coasters!