The Pebble & Tide Coaster Set: A Free Knitting Pattern for Textured, Ocean-Washed Squares

Introducing the Pebble & Tide Coaster Set

Bring the serene beauty of the coast into your home with this free knitting pattern for a set of four uniquely textured coasters. Inspired by smooth sea pebbles and shifting tides, each coaster uses a simple slip-stitch technique to create a modern, organic feel. The pattern is designed for beginners and intermediate knitters alike, offering a relaxing project that yields stunning, functional art for your coffee table. Each coaster measures approximately 4 inches square, making them perfect for protecting surfaces while adding a touch of handmade charm.

Materials Needed

Before you begin, gather the following supplies. The pattern uses worsted weight cotton yarn for durability and a beautiful matte finish.

Yarn

• Worsted weight cotton yarn (e.g., Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton) in four colors:
  • Sand (Color A) – approximately 30 yards
  • Driftwood (Color B) – approximately 30 yards
  • Seafoam (Color C) – approximately 30 yards
  • Deep Teal (Color D) – approximately 30 yards

Needles & Notions

• US 7 (4.5 mm) knitting needles
• Tapestry needle for weaving in ends
• Scissors
• Ruler or tape measure
• Pins for blocking (optional but recommended)

Gauge

20 stitches and 28 rows = 4 inches in Stockinette stitch, after blocking. Achieving the correct gauge ensures your coasters are the right size. If your gauge is off, adjust needle size accordingly.

Step-by-Step Instructions

This pattern creates a set of four square coasters, each with a different slip-stitch texture. Each coaster is worked flat, back and forth. Follow the general notes below, then choose your coaster pattern.

General Notes

• Slip stitches are purlwise with yarn held to the wrong side (wyib) unless otherwise stated.
• The first stitch of each row is slipped purlwise to create a neat, braided edge.
• Each coaster is approximately 4 inches square.
• Bind off loosely knitwise to maintain stretch.

Coaster 1: The Sand Bar (Garter Stitch with Slip Stitch Ridges)

This coaster features subtle horizontal ridges that mimic the gentle ripples of sand at low tide.

1. With Color A (Sand), cast on 20 stitches.
2. Row 1 (RS): Slip 1 purlwise, knit to end.
3. Row 2 (WS): Slip 1 purlwise, knit to end.
4. Row 3: Slip 1 purlwise, *k1, slip 1 wyib, repeat from * to last stitch, k1.
5. Row 4: Slip 1 purlwise, *p1, slip 1 wyib, repeat from * to last stitch, p1.
6. Repeat Rows 1-4 until piece measures 4 inches from cast-on edge, ending with a Row 4.
7. Bind off loosely knitwise.

Coaster 2: The Driftwood (Woven Slip Stitch)

This coaster creates a woven, basket-like texture reminiscent of driftwood planks.

1. With Color B (Driftwood), cast on 20 stitches.
2. Row 1 (RS): Slip 1 purlwise, knit to end.
3. Row 2 (WS): Slip 1 purlwise, purl to end.
4. Row 3: Slip 1 purlwise, *k2, slip 2 wyib, repeat from * to last 3 stitches, k3.
5. Row 4: Slip 1 purlwise, *p2, slip 2 wyib, repeat from * to last 3 stitches, p3.
6. Row 5: Slip 1 purlwise, knit to end.
7. Row 6: Slip 1 purlwise, purl to end.
8. Row 7: Slip 1 purlwise, *slip 2 wyib, k2, repeat from * to last 3 stitches, slip 2 wyib, k1.
9. Row 8: Slip 1 purlwise, *slip 2 wyib, p2, repeat from * to last 3 stitches, slip 2 wyib, p1.
10. Repeat Rows 1-8 until piece measures 4 inches, ending with a Row 6 or Row 8.
11. Bind off loosely knitwise.

Coaster 3: The Seafoam (Dotted Slip Stitch)

This coaster has a dotted, pebbled surface that resembles the frothy bubbles of seafoam.

1. With Color C (Seafoam), cast on 20 stitches.
2. Row 1 (RS): Slip 1 purlwise, knit to end.
3. Row 2 (WS): Slip 1 purlwise, purl to end.
4. Row 3: Slip 1 purlwise, *k1, slip 1 wyib, repeat from * to last stitch, k1.
5. Row 4: Slip 1 purlwise, purl to end.
6. Row 5: Slip 1 purlwise, knit to end.
7. Row 6: Slip 1 purlwise, purl to end.
8. Row 7: Slip 1 purlwise, *slip 1 wyib, k1, repeat from * to last stitch, slip 1 wyib, k1.
9. Row 8: Slip 1 purlwise, purl to end.
10. Repeat Rows 1-8 until piece measures 4 inches, ending with a Row 8.
11. Bind off loosely knitwise.

Coaster 4: The Deep Tide (Diagonal Slip Stitch)

This coaster features a diagonal, chevron-like pattern that evokes the ebb and flow of deep ocean currents.

1. With Color D (Deep Teal), cast on 20 stitches.
2. Row 1 (RS): Slip 1 purlwise, knit to end.
3. Row 2 (WS): Slip 1 purlwise, purl to end.
4. Row 3: Slip 1 purlwise, *k3, slip 1 wyib, repeat from * to last 4 stitches, k4.
5. Row 4: Slip 1 purlwise, *p3, slip 1 wyib, repeat from * to last 4 stitches, p4.
6. Row 5: Slip 1 purlwise, *k2, slip 1 wyib, k1, repeat from * to last 4 stitches, k2, slip 1 wyib, k1.
7. Row 6: Slip 1 purlwise, *p2, slip 1 wyib, p1, repeat from * to last 4 stitches, p2, slip 1 wyib, p1.
8. Row 7: Slip 1 purlwise, *k1, slip 1 wyib, k2, repeat from * to last 4 stitches, k1, slip 1 wyib, k2.
9. Row 8: Slip 1 purlwise, *p1, slip 1 wyib, p2, repeat from * to last 4 stitches, p1, slip 1 wyib, p2.
10. Row 9: Slip 1 purlwise, *slip 1 wyib, k3, repeat from * to last 4 stitches, slip 1 wyib, k3.
11. Row 10: Slip 1 purlwise, *slip 1 wyib, p3, repeat from * to last 4 stitches, slip 1 wyib, p3.
12. Repeat Rows 1-10 until piece measures 4 inches, ending with a Row 10.
13. Bind off loosely knitwise.

Finishing

1. Weave in all ends using a tapestry needle. Trim any excess yarn.
2. Block each coaster for a professional finish. Wet the coaster thoroughly, then gently squeeze out excess water (do not wring). Lay flat on a towel, shape to a perfect 4-inch square, and pin in place. Allow to dry completely. The slip stitches will relax and create a beautiful, textured surface.

Your Pebble & Tide Coaster Set is now complete! Arrange them on your table to enjoy the calming, coastal aesthetic. Happy knitting!