The Woven Willow Stitch: A Free Crochet Pattern for a Textured, Alternating Spike Stitch

Discover the Woven Willow Stitch: A Free Crochet Pattern for a Textured, Alternating Spike Stitch

Discover the mesmerizing Woven Willow Stitch, a unique take on the alternating single crochet spike stitch that creates a dense, woven fabric perfect for modern home decor. This free pattern guides you through creating a stunning, textured coaster or placemat that feels like a handcrafted treasure. Whether you're a beginner looking to expand your skills or an intermediate crocheter seeking a satisfying project, this stitch pattern offers a beautiful, tactile result that will elevate any table setting.

Materials Needed

To create your own Woven Willow Stitch coaster or placemat, gather the following materials:

• Yarn: Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton (worsted weight, 100% cotton) in two contrasting colors:
  • Color A (e.g., 'Linen')
  • Color B (e.g., 'Seafoam')
• Hook: Size G/6 (4.0 mm) crochet hook
• Gauge: 16 stitches and 12 rows = 4 inches in single crochet
• Additional: Yarn needle for weaving in ends, scissors, and blocking supplies (optional but recommended)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Pattern Notes

• This pattern is worked in rows, alternating colors every two rows.
• The spike stitch is worked by inserting the hook into the row below the current row, pulling up a loop to the height of the current row, and completing the stitch.
• Ch 1 at the beginning of each row does not count as a stitch.

Getting Started

With Color A, chain 22. This will give you a foundation of 21 stitches across.

Row 1 (Right Side)

Sc in 2nd ch from hook and in each ch across. Turn. (21 sc)

Row 2

Ch 1, sc in each st across. Turn. Fasten off Color A.

Row 3

Join Color B with a slip stitch in the first st. Ch 1, sc in the same st. *Insert hook into the st directly below the next st (one row down), pull up a loop, yarn over, pull through both loops (spike sc made). Sc in the next st on the current row.* Repeat from * to * across, ending with a sc in the last st. Turn. (21 sts: 11 sc, 10 spike sc)

Row 4

Ch 1, sc in each st across. Turn. Fasten off Color B.

Row 5

Join Color A with a slip stitch in the first st. Ch 1, sc in the same st. *Sc in the next st on the current row. Insert hook into the st directly below the following st (one row down), pull up a loop, yarn over, pull through both loops (spike sc made).* Repeat from * to * across, ending with a sc in the last st. Turn. (21 sts: 11 sc, 10 spike sc)

Row 6

Ch 1, sc in each st across. Turn. Fasten off Color A.

Repeat the Pattern

Repeat Rows 3-6 until your piece measures approximately 5 inches from the beginning, ending with a Row 4 or Row 6 (a solid sc row). Fasten off, weave in ends.

Finishing

Block the piece to even out the stitches and enhance the woven texture. To block, wet the piece with cool water, gently squeeze out excess, and lay flat on a towel, shaping to desired dimensions. Allow to dry completely.

Your Woven Willow Stitch coaster or placemat is now complete! The alternating spike stitches create a beautiful, basket-like texture that will add a touch of handmade charm to your home. Enjoy your new creation!