The Crochet Pattern
Foundation Ring
- Ch 5, join with a sl st to the first ch to form a ring.
(Alternatively, use a magic ring if desired.)
Round 1: Center Circle
- Ch 3 (counts as first dc).
- 11 dc into the ring. (Total 12 dc, including initial ch-3.)
- Sl st in top of beginning ch-3 to join.
Round 2: Increasing Stitches
- Ch 3, dc in same stitch (increase in first st).
- 2 dc into each dc around. (24 dc total)
- Sl st to top of ch-3 to join.
- Pull ring tight or secure magic ring if used.
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Round 3: Alternating Increases
- Ch 3.
- 1 dc in next st, 2 dc in following st;
Repeat (1 dc, 2 dc) around. - Sl st in top of starting ch-3 to join.
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Round 4: Expanding the Circle
- Ch 3.
- 1 dc in next st, 1 dc in following st, 2 dc in next st;
Repeat (dc, dc, 2 dc) sequence around. - Sl st to top of ch-3 to complete the round.
Shaping the First Ear
- Yarn over, skip one dc from the base.
- Into next st, work all the following:
- 3 dc
- 1 tr
- Ch 1
- 1 tr
- 3 dc
- (All stitches in the same base st to form the full ear.)
Working the Head Edge
- Skip one dc from base.
- Sl st in next st.
- Continue working sl st across the next 10 stitches to cross the head and position for the second ear.
Shaping the Second Ear
- Yarn over, skip one dc from the base.
- In next st, work all of the following:
- 3 dc
- 1 tr
- Ch 1
- 1 tr
- 3 dc
- (Creates the matching opposite ear.)
Finishing Up
- Skip one dc from base.
- Sl st in next st to anchor.
- Ch 1, cut yarn, pull tail through to fasten.
- Weave in all remaining loose ends using a yarn needle for a tidy finish.
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Assembly & Finished Size
- No seaming is needed; mat is complete as finished.
- Give a light steam block or flatten with fingers, if desired.
- Finished coaster is approximately 4–5 inches wide, ears adding a bit of height.
- Secure and trim yarn ends for a professional finish.
Conclusion and Ending Words
Completing this cute cat-inspired drink mat is an ideal project for building confidence and learning round-based construction. Each round demonstrates clear increases, ensuring the base remains smooth and flat—a foundational crochet skill. The distinctly shaped ears are formed through a sequence of standard double and treble crochets, allowing for easy repetition and recognizable results. Minimal finishing keeps the process efficient and satisfying, making these mats a delightful addition to everyday table settings or thoughtful gifts. The playful yet simple design means you can confidently experiment with colors or yarn weights, and even adjust the size as desired. With each finished mat, you’ll reinforce the core skills of working in the round and shaping, while delighting in a whimsical accent that’s as practical as it is adorable.
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