With summer fast approaching I was contemplating something I could make to bring in those warm, muggy days. My family cooks out a lot (we love our BBQ and pool time) so I immanently went to an idea for something to use in that capacity. How about some fun hemp granny square coasters?

If you are familiar with crocheting these will be super simple to make and for those that are not familiar I’ve photographed a few of the steps to help make reading the pattern easier. Enjoy!

Supplies
1. 48 lb Hemp Cord
2. Size G/6 crochet hook (4.25mm)

Basic Granny Square Pattern:

Terms:
sc – single crochet
dc – double crochet
sl st – slip stitch

*Chain 3 at start of each round equals 1 double crochet

Chain 4, join with sl st to first stitch to form a circle.

Round 1: *Chain 3, 2 dc in circle.* Repeat from * 3 more times. Chain 3 and sl st into top of chain 3 from beginning. Sl st through both dcs and into chain 3 space.

Round 2: Chain 3, 2 dc in chain 3 space. Chain 3, 3 dc in same chain 3 space. Chain 2 (I like my spaces tight but you can take it out to 3 if you want them more loose), 3dc in next chain 3 space, chain 3, 3 dc in same space* Continue from * 2 more times. Chain 2 and join with sl st to top of chain 3. Sl st through both dcs and into chain 3 space.

Round 3: Chain 3, 2 dc in corner chain 3 space, chain 3, 3 dc in same space. *Chain 2, 3 dc in chain 2 space, chain 2, 3 dc in corner chain 3 space, chain 3, 3 dc in same space.* Repeat from * 2 more times. Chain 2 and join with sl st to top of chain 3.

For coasters I only take the pattern out three rounds. you can continue in the same fashion if you want to make larger pieces.

Step 1:

Here are the steps in a more visual form:

Form a loop by crossing one end of your hemp over the other. Bring the longer end across the loop opening…

Step 2:

...and push through opening. Bring your hook into the newly formed loop and pull tight. You’re ready to begin crocheting!

Step 3:

Chain 4 and slip stitch to first chain to form a circle.

Step 4:

Chain 3, then 2 double crochets into circle.

Step 5:

Chain 3 (this forms your first corner), 3 double crochets into circle.

Step 6:

Repeat this this two more times then chain 3 and join with slip stitch to top of chain 3 from beginning.

Step 7:

Slip stitch two more times through the tops of the double crochets till you get to the corner formed by your chain 3. This is where you will begin your next round.

Step 8:

Chain 3 and 2 double crochet in corner chain 3 space. Chain 3 then 3 more double crochet in the same space to form this rounds first corner.

Step 9:

Once first corner of this round is finished chain 2 and repeat the previous instructions in the next corner chain 3 space. Do this all the way around and join with slip stitch to top of chain 3 from beginning of round.

Complete your 3rd round in the same fashion. 3 double crochets will go in the newly created spaces between the corners and 6 double crochets (with chain 3 between them) will create your new corners. Tie off when completed and work in your ends.

Step 10:

Something to note when working with hemp, it can be hard on the hands. Make sure to take breaks if it is starting to chafe or rub uncomfortably. You can work with smaller pound cording for a less coarse feel. If you go the circle pattern route just make sure to keep your tension loose so it doesn’t curl up into a bowl.