Sunset Serape Coaster Trio Free Pattern – Three Color Knitted Coasters

Sunset Serape Coaster Trio Free Pattern – Three Color Knitted Coasters

Bring the warm hues of a desert sunset to your table with this trio of knitted coasters, each featuring a unique three-color stripe sequence. These thick, textured squares are as practical as they are beautiful, protecting your surfaces in style. Whether you're a seasoned knitter looking for a quick weekend project or a beginner ready to practice color changes, this pattern offers three distinct designs that all share the same warm, earthy palette. The result is a cohesive set that adds a handcrafted, modern touch to any home.

Materials Needed

Before you begin, gather the following supplies. This project is perfect for using up small amounts of worsted-weight cotton yarn from your stash.

• Yarn: Worsted weight cotton yarn in three colors:
  • Color A (Terracotta) – approximately 30 yards per coaster
  • Color B (Burnt Orange) – approximately 30 yards per coaster
  • Color C (Golden Yellow) – approximately 30 yards per coaster
• Needles: US 7 (4.5 mm) knitting needles
• Gauge: 20 stitches and 28 rows = 4 inches in stockinette stitch (for reference; exact gauge is not critical for this project)
• Notions: Tapestry needle for weaving in ends, scissors

Step-by-Step Instructions

This pattern creates a 4.5-inch square coaster. Work each coaster separately, changing colors as indicated. When changing colors, you can either carry the yarn not in use loosely up the side (if the color returns within a few rows) or cut and weave in ends for a cleaner finish. For the best results, weave in ends as you go to minimize finishing work at the end.

Coaster 1 (Horizontal Stripes)

This classic design features bold, horizontal bands of color that create a serene, sunset-inspired gradient.

1. Cast on: Cast on 24 stitches with Color A (Terracotta).
2. Rows 1-8: Knit all stitches (garter stitch) with Color A. This creates a textured, ridged base.
3. Rows 9-16: Switch to Color B (Burnt Orange) and knit all stitches. Continue in garter stitch.
4. Rows 17-24: Switch to Color C (Golden Yellow) and knit all stitches.
5. Rows 25-32: Switch back to Color B (Burnt Orange) and knit all stitches.
6. Rows 33-40: Switch back to Color A (Terracotta) and knit all stitches.
7. Bind off: Bind off all stitches knitwise with Color A. Weave in all loose ends with your tapestry needle.

Coaster 2 (Diagonal Stripes)

This variation uses stockinette stitch to create a smooth surface with diagonal color transitions, giving the illusion of a dynamic zigzag pattern.

1. Cast on: Cast on 24 stitches with Color A (Terracotta).
2. Row 1 (RS): With Color A, knit all stitches.
3. Row 2 (WS): With Color A, purl all stitches. (You have now completed 2 rows of stockinette.)
4. Row 3: Switch to Color B (Burnt Orange), knit all stitches.
5. Row 4: With Color B, purl all stitches.
6. Row 5: Switch to Color C (Golden Yellow), knit all stitches.
7. Row 6: With Color C, purl all stitches.
8. Row 7: Switch back to Color B (Burnt Orange), knit all stitches.
9. Row 8: With Color B, purl all stitches.
10. Row 9: Switch back to Color A (Terracotta), knit all stitches.
11. Row 10: With Color A, purl all stitches.
12. Repeat: Repeat Rows 3-10 two more times (this brings you to Row 30). Then work Rows 3-6 once more (ending on Row 34).
13. Bind off: Bind off all stitches knitwise with Color C. Weave in all loose ends.

Coaster 3 (Checkerboard)

This geometric design features a classic checkerboard pattern with a terracotta border, creating a bold, modern look.

1. Cast on: Cast on 24 stitches with Color A (Terracotta).
2. Row 1 (RS): With Color A, knit all stitches.
3. Row 2 (WS): With Color A, purl all stitches. (This forms the terracotta border.)
4. Row 3: Switch to Color B (Burnt Orange). Work *K3, P3; repeat from * to end of row. (You will end with K3.)
5. Row 4: With Color B, work *P3, K3; repeat from * to end of row. (This creates the checkerboard offset.)
6. Row 5: With Color B, repeat Row 3 (*K3, P3; repeat from *).
7. Row 6: With Color B, repeat Row 4 (*P3, K3; repeat from *).
8. Row 7: Switch to Color C (Golden Yellow). Work *P3, K3; repeat from * to end of row. (Notice the pattern shifts.)
9. Row 8: With Color C, work *K3, P3; repeat from * to end of row.
10. Row 9: With Color C, repeat Row 7 (*P3, K3; repeat from *).
11. Row 10: With Color C, repeat Row 8 (*K3, P3; repeat from *).
12. Repeat: Repeat Rows 3-10 once more (this brings you to Row 18). Then work Rows 3-6 once more (ending on Row 22).
13. Bind off: Bind off all stitches knitwise with Color B. Weave in all loose ends.

Finishing Touches

Once all three coasters are complete, give them a gentle block if desired. Simply wet them with lukewarm water, gently squeeze out excess moisture (do not wring), and lay them flat to dry on a towel, shaping them into perfect squares. This will help even out the stitches and give your coasters a professional, polished look. Once dry, they're ready to protect your table in style!

These coasters also make wonderful handmade gifts. Pair them with a favorite mug or a small stack of coffee table books for a thoughtful, personalized present. Enjoy your new Sunset Serape Coaster Trio!