Sunken Garden T-Shirt Yarn Rug Free Pattern – Crochet a Pebbled Oasis

Transform recycled t-shirt yarn into a plush, textured rug that mimics a sun-drenched garden path. This free pattern uses a clever pebble stitch to create a dense, cushioned surface that's as beautiful as it is durable. The result is a stunning, earthy terracotta circle with a wonderfully tactile, organic feel—perfect for adding warmth and handmade charm to any room. Best of all, this project is beginner-friendly and a fantastic way to upcycle old t-shirts into something truly special.

Materials Needed

Before you begin, gather the following supplies. Using the right materials ensures your rug comes out perfectly soft, sturdy, and the correct size.

• Yarn: Approximately 3-4 pounds of t-shirt yarn (or 150-200 yards of bulky weight t-shirt yarn per 2x3 foot section). For a 3-foot round rug, plan on roughly 3 pounds; for a 4-foot rug, use about 4 pounds.
• Crochet Hook: US Size N/P (10 mm) crochet hook, or size needed to obtain gauge.
• Gauge: 4 stitches x 4 rows = 4 inches in pebble stitch pattern. Always check your gauge to ensure your rug is the correct size and density.
• Optional: Stitch marker to track rounds, scissors, and a yarn needle for weaving in ends.

Step-by-Step Instructions

This rug is worked in a spiral, starting from the center and working outward. The pebble stitch creates a beautiful, bumpy texture that feels amazing underfoot. Follow these detailed instructions carefully, and you'll have a gorgeous rug in no time.

Abbreviations

• ch: chain
• sc: single crochet
• dc: double crochet
• st(s): stitch(es)
• rnd: round
• sl st: slip stitch

Special Stitch – Pebble Stitch (worked in a round)

This is the signature stitch of this pattern. It's simple to master and creates the lovely pebbled texture.

1. Work 1 sc in the next st.
2. Work 1 dc in the same st (this creates a little 'pebble' bump).
3. Skip the next st.
4. Repeat steps 1-3 around.

Important: For the increase rounds below, you will work the pebble stitch into the same stitch as the increase, ensuring the pattern stays consistent.

Pattern

Follow each round carefully. The increases are worked evenly to keep your rug flat and circular.

Rnd 1: Make a magic ring. Work 8 sc into the ring. Pull tight to close. (8 sts)

Rnd 2: Work 2 sc in each st around. (16 sts)

Rnd 3: *Work 1 sc in the next st, 2 sc in the next st.* Repeat from * to * around. (24 sts)

Rnd 4: *Work 1 sc in the next 2 sts, 2 sc in the next st.* Repeat from * to * around. (32 sts)

Rnd 5: *Work 1 sc in the next 3 sts, 2 sc in the next st.* Repeat from * to * around. (40 sts)

Rnd 6: *Work 1 sc in the next 4 sts, 2 sc in the next st.* Repeat from * to * around. (48 sts)

Rnd 7: *Work 1 sc in the next 5 sts, 2 sc in the next st.* Repeat from * to * around. (56 sts)

Rnd 8: *Work 1 sc in the next 6 sts, 2 sc in the next st.* Repeat from * to * around. (64 sts)

Rnd 9: *Work 1 sc in the next 7 sts, 2 sc in the next st.* Repeat from * to * around. (72 sts)

Rnd 10: *Work 1 sc in the next 8 sts, 2 sc in the next st.* Repeat from * to * around. (80 sts)

Rnd 11: *Work 1 sc in the next 9 sts, 2 sc in the next st.* Repeat from * to * around. (88 sts)

Rnd 12: *Work 1 sc in the next 10 sts, 2 sc in the next st.* Repeat from * to * around. (96 sts)

Rnd 13: *Work 1 sc in the next 11 sts, 2 sc in the next st.* Repeat from * to * around. (104 sts)

Rnd 14: *Work 1 sc in the next 12 sts, 2 sc in the next st.* Repeat from * to * around. (112 sts)

Rnd 15: *Work 1 sc in the next 13 sts, 2 sc in the next st.* Repeat from * to * around. (120 sts)

Rnd 16: *Work 1 sc in the next 14 sts, 2 sc in the next st.* Repeat from * to * around. (128 sts)

Rnd 17: *Work 1 sc in the next 15 sts, 2 sc in the next st.* Repeat from * to * around. (136 sts)

Rnd 18: *Work 1 sc in the next 16 sts, 2 sc in the next st.* Repeat from * to * around. (144 sts)

Rnd 19: *Work 1 sc in the next 17 sts, 2 sc in the next st.* Repeat from * to * around. (152 sts)

Rnd 20: *Work 1 sc in the next 18 sts, 2 sc in the next st.* Repeat from * to * around. (160 sts)

Continue increasing in this manner (adding 8 sts each round) until your rug reaches the desired size. For a 3-foot round rug, you will work approximately 30 rounds. For a 4-foot round rug, work approximately 40 rounds. Remember to check your gauge and adjust as needed.

Finishing

When the rug is the desired size, work 1 rnd of sc in each st around. Then, sl st into the next st, cut yarn, and weave in ends. This creates a clean, neat edge.

Optional: Custom Shapes

To create a more oval or rectangular shape, you can work back-and-forth rows instead of rounds, increasing at the ends of each row. This is a more advanced technique, but it allows for a custom shape to fit your space perfectly.

Tips for Working with T-Shirt Yarn

• T-shirt yarn can be stretchy, so be careful not to pull too tightly when crocheting. Keep your tension relaxed and even.
• If your t-shirt yarn is very thick, you may need to use a larger hook to maintain the correct gauge.
• To join a new ball of t-shirt yarn, simply tie the ends together in a secure knot and weave in the tails. This keeps the join invisible and sturdy.
• If your rug starts to ruffle, you're increasing too much; if it cups, you're not increasing enough. Adjust your stitch count accordingly.

Enjoy your beautiful, handcrafted Sunken Garden Rug! It's the perfect eco-friendly addition to your home, and a wonderful way to practice your crochet skills.