Beginner Crochet Snake Amigurumi: Simple Free Pattern
Soft to the touch and firm enough to hold its shape on a bookshelf, this long serpent makes a delightful companion for your workspace or a child’s toy bin. The tight construction hides the polyester stuffing completely, ensuring a clean appearance even when handled frequently. You will find this specific project rewarding because it grows quickly under your hook, allowing you to see progress within just a few rounds of work. Mastering the basic single crochet stitch in a spiral helps you understand how to shape rounded objects without unsightly seams. This project is a wonderful starting point for anyone learning the basics.
Why You’ll Love This Pattern
This beginner-friendly crochet coaster pattern provides a practical way to protect your furniture while practicing fundamental stitch techniques. The design relies on a continuous spiral, which removes the need for joining rounds and creates a seamless, professional finish. You can complete a single coaster in under twenty minutes, making this an ideal project for using up small amounts of leftover cotton yarn. Because the pattern uses a sturdy construction, the fabric remains flat without curling, providing a stable surface for mugs and glasses.
I managed to whip up a full set of four coasters in one afternoon. The instructions were very easy to follow and the finished result is thick enough to stop condensation from reaching my wood table.
— Sarah, home crafter
Pattern Overview & Skill Level
- Skill Level: Beginner
- Approximate Time: 15–20 minutes per coaster
- Construction: Worked in a continuous spiral in the round using single crochet stitches
- Finished Dimensions: Approximately 4 inches in diameter
Materials & Supplies Needed
- Yarn: Worsted weight (#4) 100% cotton yarn, approximately 15 yards per coaster. Cotton is chosen for its absorbency and heat resistance.
- Hook Size: 5.0 mm (US H-8)
- Notions: Tapestry needle for weaving ends, stitch marker to track the start of each round, scissors.
- Yarn Substitutions: You may use an acrylic yarn, but note that it will not absorb moisture as effectively as cotton and may melt if exposed to very hot mugs.
Stitch Guide & Abbreviations (US Terms)
- MR: Magic Ring
- ch: chain
- sc: single crochet
- inc: increase (work 2 sc in the same stitch)
- sl st: slip stitch to finish
- st(s): stitch(es)
Step-by-Step Pattern Instructions
Coaster Body
- Rnd 1: Start with a MR. Work 6 sc into the ring. Tighten the tail to close the center hole. (6 sts)
- Rnd 2: Work 2 sc in each st around. (12 sts)
- Rnd 3: 1 sc, inc repeat from * to * 6 times. (18 sts)
- Rnd 4: 1 sc, 1 sc, inc repeat from * to * 6 times. (24 sts)
- Rnd 5: 1 sc, 1 sc, 1 sc, inc repeat from * to * 6 times. (30 sts)
- Rnd 6: 1 sc in each of the next 4 sts, inc repeat from * to * 6 times. (36 sts)
Finishing
Once you reach the end of Rnd 6, do not chain. Work a slip stitch into the next stitch to level off the edge. Cut your yarn, leaving a 6-inch tail. Pull the yarn tail completely through the loop on your hook. Use your tapestry needle to weave the end back through the stitches on the back side of the coaster. Trim any excess yarn flush with the fabric.
Care & Washing Instructions
- Machine wash on a gentle cycle in cold water to prevent shrinking.
- Lay the coaster flat on a towel to air dry, ensuring it is reshaped while damp.
- If the coaster becomes slightly warped over time, lightly steam or spray with water and press under a heavy book until dry.
Pro Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid
Maintain consistent tension throughout the project to ensure the coaster lies perfectly flat. If your stitches are too tight, the circle will cup like a bowl; if they are too loose, the fabric will ripple. Always place a stitch marker in the first stitch of every round to avoid losing your place in the spiral. When weaving in your ends, run the needle through the center of the stitches on the back of the work rather than across the gaps to keep the back side looking clean. If you want a larger coaster, continue the pattern by adding an extra sc between each increase in subsequent rounds, but remember that increasing the size will require more yarn per unit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different yarn weight for this pattern?
You can use DK or bulky weight yarn, but you will need to adjust your hook size accordingly. A smaller weight yarn will result in a smaller coaster, while a larger weight yarn will create a thicker, larger coaster.
Why is my coaster curling into a bowl shape?
Curling usually happens if your tension is too tight or if you are missing stitches. Ensure you are working the correct number of increases in every round to keep the circle flat.
Is this pattern suitable for complete beginners?
Yes, this is an excellent project for beginners because it uses only the single crochet stitch and teaches you how to work in a continuous round.
Can I sell the coasters I make from this pattern?
You are welcome to sell finished items made from this pattern. I only ask that you credit the design work back to this tutorial if you list them in an online shop.
You now hold a coiled friend that looks impressive despite its simple construction and basic stitches. If you want to experiment, try using a variegated yarn to give the scales a natural camouflage pattern or work with a thicker velvet material for a much larger, squishier result. I would love to see the specific color combinations you choose, so please upload your photos to your favorite social media sites. Browse our archive for more free patterns to build your skills and fill your home with handmade creations.
