Bring warm color and handmade texture to your table with these Autumn Maple Leaf Coasters crochet pieces. Each leaf works up quickly in cotton yarn and creates a practical accent for mugs, candles, and seasonal place settings. The pointed lobes and small stem give the design a recognizable maple shape, while simple increases and decreases keep the project approachable for confident beginners.
This free pattern is an easy way to explore Crochet Autumn Leaves without committing to a large blanket or garment. Make one leaf for a cozy mug, crochet a coordinated set, or mix several shades for effortless Crochet Fall Decor.
Autumn Maple Leaf Coaster Pattern at a Glance
- Skill level: Confident beginner
- Finished size: About 5.5–6 inches (14–15 cm), including the stem
- Yarn: Worsted-weight cotton
- Hook: 4 mm (G/6), or the size needed for a firm fabric
- Time: About 45–75 minutes per leaf
- Terminology: US crochet terms
Gauge is not critical for this project. A firm fabric works best because it helps the coaster lie flat and protects the table. If your stitches feel loose, use a slightly smaller hook.
Materials
- 20–25 yards of worsted-weight 100% cotton yarn per coaster
- 4 mm crochet hook
- Yarn needle
- Scissors
- Stitch marker
- Blocking mat and rustproof pins
Choose burnt orange, mustard, burgundy, olive, or cream for a classic autumn palette. Cotton is recommended because it absorbs condensation, handles warm mugs well, and keeps its shape after blocking. Avoid fuzzy yarn, which can hide the crisp outline of the Crochet Maple Leaf.
Abbreviations
- ch: chain
- sl st: slip stitch
- sc: single crochet
- hdc: half double crochet
- dc: double crochet
- tr: treble crochet
- st(s): stitch(es)
- sp: space
Crochet Maple Leaf Pattern Free
The leaf is worked in joined rounds from the center. Chains of different heights form the five points, and the final round sharpens the silhouette. Keep your slip stitches relaxed so the center stays flat.
Center and First Round
Round 1: Make a magic ring. Ch 2 (does not count as a stitch), work 10 dc into the ring, and join with a sl st to the first dc. Pull the ring closed. You should have 10 stitches.
Round 2: Ch 1. Work 2 sc in each stitch around. Join with a sl st to the first sc. You should have 20 stitches.
Shape the Five Maple Points
Round 3: Ch 1, sc in the same stitch. In the next stitch work (hdc, dc). In the next stitch work (tr, ch 3, sl st in the first chain, tr). In the next stitch work (dc, hdc). Sc in the next stitch.
Repeat the sequence from the previous paragraph four more times around the circle. Join with a sl st to the first sc. You now have five pointed sections. Do not worry if the piece curls slightly; the edging and blocking will open the leaf.
Add the Indents and Edging
Round 4: Sl st to the first hdc. Ch 1, sc in the same stitch, sc in the next dc, 2 sc in the next tr, and work (sc, ch 2, sl st in the first chain, sc) in the ch-3 point. Work 2 sc in the next tr, sc in the next dc, and sc in the next hdc.
Sl st into the sc between the points, then ch 1 and sl st into the same stitch. This small chain deepens the valley between two lobes. Repeat the edging around all five sections and join to the first sc. Fasten off, leaving a tail long enough to weave in securely.
Crochet the Stem
Join yarn with a sl st in one valley at the bottom of the leaf. Ch 9. Starting in the second chain from the hook, sl st in each chain back toward the leaf. Sl st again into the same valley, fasten off, and weave the tail into the back.
Your Crochet Leaf Coaster is now complete. If one point looks slightly different, shape it gently with your fingers before blocking rather than adding extra stitches.
How to Block the Coaster
Blocking is the step that turns a softly curled motif into neat Doily Decor. Wet the leaf with cool water and press it between two towels. Do not twist. Pin the center first, then pull each of the five points outward. Pin the valleys inward and straighten the stem. Let the leaf dry completely before removing the pins.
For a very crisp finish, mist the pinned coaster with a light fabric-starch solution. Use only a small amount so the cotton remains flexible and washable.
Color and Decorating Ideas
A single leaf makes a charming accent, but a mixed set feels especially rich. Combine pumpkin orange, wine red, golden yellow, moss green, and natural cream. A neutral set in oatmeal and caramel can also work beyond autumn.
These leaves can be used as more than coasters. Join several stems to a long chain for a garland, place one under a small vase, or arrange three leaves around a candle holder. Worked in fine cotton with a smaller hook, the same motif becomes a delicate Fall Doily. It is a versatile choice for quick Fall Crochet Projects and handmade hostess gifts.
Tips for a Neat Crochet Maple Leaf
- Count the 20 stitches in Round 2 before shaping the points.
- Keep the ch-3 tips loose enough to form a visible point.
- Use the same tension on every repeated section.
- Make the valley slip stitches snug, but not tight enough to cup the fabric.
- Weave ends through dense stitches near the center rather than along an open edge.
- Block every leaf in a set to the same measurements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use acrylic yarn?
You can use acrylic for a garland or decorative appliqué, but cotton is the better coaster fiber. It absorbs moisture, tolerates moderate heat, and blocks into a cleaner shape.
Why is my leaf curling?
A little curling before blocking is normal. Strong curling may mean your chain stitches are too tight or your hook is too small. Relax the tall stitches in Round 3, then wet-block the finished piece.
Can I make a larger leaf?
Yes. Use bulky cotton and a 5–5.5 mm hook for a small trivet. Check that the finished fabric is dense enough and keep it away from extremely hot cookware.
How do I wash the coasters?
Hand-wash in cool water with mild soap, press out moisture in a towel, and reshape flat. Re-block the points if needed.
Once you finish the first leaf, the five-section repeat becomes easy to remember. Try a full spectrum of autumn shades and enjoy a useful set of Crochet Leaf Patterns that adds handmade warmth to every cup of tea or coffee.
