
Free Easy Crochet Monstera Pattern (Perfect for Coasters!)
If you’ve been looking for a fun, quick, and beginner-friendly crochet project that also happens to be wildly on-trend, you’ve landed in exactly the right place. This free easy crochet monstera pattern is designed to help you create adorable monstera leaf coasters that look like they came straight from a boutique shop — without spending a dime on a pattern. Whether you’re a seasoned crocheter looking for a relaxing weekend project or someone who just learned the basics and wants to make something genuinely impressive, this pattern is going to be your new favorite go-to.
Monstera leaves — with their iconic tropical splits and holes — have become one of the most beloved motifs in home décor, and for good reason. They’re bold, graphic, and instantly recognizable. Translating that distinctive shape into a crochet pattern gives you something that feels both modern and handmade in the best possible way. These coasters work beautifully as a set for your coffee table, as thoughtful handmade gifts, or as a way to practice shaping techniques before you tackle a larger monstera-themed project.
Let’s dive in.
Why Monstera Coasters Are the Perfect Beginner Project
Before we get into the actual pattern, let’s talk about why this particular project is such a great starting point — or a great palate cleanser between bigger projects.
Coasters are small. That means if you make a mistake or don’t love how something is turning out, you haven’t invested hours and hours of your time. You can frog it (that’s crochet-speak for unraveling your work), start over, and finish a completely new attempt in the same afternoon. There’s very little pressure, and that low-stakes environment is exactly what helps newer crocheters build confidence.
The monstera shape is also forgiving. Unlike geometric patterns where every angle has to be precise, organic leaf shapes have a built-in wiggle room. A slightly uneven edge just looks like part of the natural leaf variation. Nobody is going to hold a ruler up to your coaster and declare that the split isn’t at quite the right angle. Nature isn’t perfect, and neither does your crochet have to be.
Finally, coasters are useful. This isn’t a project that’s going to sit in a drawer or hang on a wall for three months before you wonder why you made it. You’ll use these every single day, and every time you set down your morning coffee cup, you’ll feel a little glow of satisfaction knowing you made that.
Materials You’ll Need
One of the best things about this pattern is how minimal the materials list is. You likely already have most of what you need.
Yarn: Worsted weight cotton yarn works best for coasters because it’s absorbent, durable, and easy to wash. You’ll want green — obviously — but feel free to get creative. Variegated greens, sage, hunter, lime, or even a moody dark green all look gorgeous. You’ll need approximately 30–40 yards per coaster, so a single skein will make you a whole set with yarn to spare.
Hook: A size 5mm (H/8) crochet hook is ideal for worsted weight cotton. If your coasters are coming out too stiff, try going up half a size. If they’re too floppy, go down.
Scissors and yarn needle: For finishing off your ends. A blunt tapestry needle works perfectly.
Optional: Stitch markers are helpful for keeping track of your rounds, especially when you’re learning the pattern for the first time.
Finished size: Each coaster measures approximately 4 to 4.5 inches across, which is just right for a standard mug or glass.
Crochet Abbreviations Used in This Pattern
This pattern is written in US crochet terms. Here’s a quick reference for the stitches you’ll use:
ch — chain
sl st — slip stitch
sc — single crochet
hdc — half double crochet
dc — double crochet
sk — skip
sp — space
MR — magic ring (also called magic circle)
st(s) — stitch(es)
rnd — round
If you’re not familiar with the magic ring, don’t let it intimidate you. It’s a technique for starting rounds without leaving a hole in the center, and there are dozens of great video tutorials online that will show you exactly how it’s done in about two minutes. Once you learn it, you’ll use it constantly.
Understanding the Monstera Shape
A real monstera leaf has a few defining characteristics that we’re going to replicate in this pattern. First, there are the splits — those deep cuts that go from the outer edge partway toward the center vein of the leaf. Second, there are the fenestrations — the iconic oval holes that appear on more mature monstera leaves. For a coaster-sized piece, we’ll focus primarily on the splits and suggest an optional method for adding a simple fenestration if you want to take your coasters to the next level.
The pattern works from the center outward, which helps you establish the basic leaf shape before adding the characteristic splits and notches at the edges. You’ll work in joined rounds for most of the piece, then switch to working back and forth in rows to create the individual lobes of the leaf.
The Free Easy Crochet Monstera Pattern
Foundation
Start with a magic ring. If you prefer not to use a magic ring, you can chain 4 and join to the first chain to form a loop.
Round 1: Ch 1, work 6 sc into the ring. Join with sl st to first sc. (6 sts)
Round 2: Ch 1, work 2 sc in each st around. Join with sl st to first sc. (12 sts)
Round 3: Ch 1, sc in next st, 2 sc in next st repeat around. Join with sl st to first sc. (18 sts)
Round 4: Ch 1, sc in next 2 sts, 2 sc in next st repeat around. Join with sl st to first sc. (24 sts)
Round 5: Ch 1, sc in next 3 sts, 2 sc in next st repeat around. Join with sl st to first sc. (30 sts)
At this point you have a flat circle that will form the base of your leaf. Now we’re going to transform that circle into a leaf shape by working in rows across the top portion.
Creating the Leaf Point (Stem End)
Row 1: Do not join. Instead, ch 1 and turn. Sc in the next 15 sts only. Turn. (15 sts)
Row 2: Ch 1, sc2tog (decrease), sc across to last 2 sts, sc2tog. Turn. (13 sts)
Row 3: Ch 1, sc2tog, sc across to last 2 sts, sc2tog. Turn. (11 sts)
Row 4: Ch 1, sc2tog, sc across to last 2 sts, sc2tog. Turn. (9 sts)
Row 5: Ch 1, sc2tog, sc across to last 2 sts, sc2tog. Turn. (7 sts)
Row 6: Ch 1, sc2tog, sc to last 2 sts, sc2tog. Turn. (5 sts)
Row 7: Ch 1, sc2tog, sc in next st, sc2tog. Turn. (3 sts)
Row 8: Ch 1, sc3tog. Fasten off. (1 st)
This creates the pointed tip of the monstera leaf. Now you’re going to go back to the remaining stitches at the base of the leaf to work the lobed edges.
Working the Lobes (The Monstera Splits)
Rejoin your yarn to the first unworked stitch of Round 5, right where you left off. The following section creates the characteristic split lobes on the sides of the leaf. Each lobe is worked separately, which is what creates those deep notches.
Lobe 1:
Join yarn with a sl st. Ch 1, sc in next 3 sts. Turn.
Row 1: Ch 1, 2 sc in first st, sc to end, 2 sc in last st. (5 sts)
Row 2: Ch 1, sc across. Turn.
Row 3: Ch 1, sc2tog, sc to last 2 sts, sc2tog. (3 sts)
Row 4: Ch 1, sc3tog. Fasten off.
Skip 2 sts on the base circle (this skipped space creates the split/notch).
Lobe 2:
Rejoin yarn in next st. Ch 1, sc in next 3 sts. Turn.
Row 1: Ch 1, 2 sc in first st, sc to end, 2 sc in last st. (5 sts)
Row 2: Ch 1, sc across. Turn.
Row 3: Ch 1, sc2tog, sc to last 2 sts, sc2tog. (3 sts)
Row 4: Ch 1, sc3tog. Fasten off.
Skip 2 sts on the base circle.
Repeat this lobe sequence on the other side of the leaf to create a symmetrical pair of lobes on the bottom half of the circle. You should end up with 2 lobes on each side of the central leaf point, for a total of 4 lobes plus the main tip — giving you that unmistakable monstera silhouette.
Finishing the Edge
Once all your lobes are complete, rejoin your yarn at the very base of the leaf (the center-bottom where a real monstera would connect to its stem). Work a single round of sc all the way around the entire perimeter of the leaf, including around each lobe and into the notches between them. This edge round pulls everything together, evens out any wonky bits, and gives your coaster a polished, professional look.
When you reach the notch between two lobes, work 2–3 sc into the notch point to fill it in slightly, or simply sl st through the space for a deeper, crisper split. Both methods look great — it’s a matter of personal preference.
After your edge round, sl st to join and fasten off. Weave in all your ends securely using your yarn needle, and you’re done.
Optional: Adding a Fenestration (The Monstera Hole)
If you want your coaster to really look like a mature monstera leaf, you can add a small oval opening — a fenestration — to one of the larger lobes. The simplest way to do this is to work a small chain loop on the surface of the lobe during your edge round and then reinforce it with a sl st on the back of the work. This creates the illusion of a hole without actually cutting through your yarn.
Alternatively, you can use embroidery thread in a contrasting color and stitch an oval outline onto the surface of the lobe after the coaster is complete. This adds texture and visual interest without altering the structure of the coaster.
Tips for Making Your Monstera Coasters Even Better
Block them. Cotton yarn responds beautifully to wet blocking. Simply wet your finished coaster, squeeze out the excess water, shape it flat on a foam mat, and pin it in place while it dries. This flattens out any curling, evens the tension, and makes the leaf shape crisper and more defined. It makes a noticeable difference.
Make a set of four. One coaster is fun. Four matching coasters is a collection. Try making each one slightly different — vary the shade of green, adjust the number of lobes, or size one up slightly by adding an extra increase round at the beginning. A mismatched-but-coordinated set has a lovely handmade charm.
Add a stem. After finishing your leaf, ch 10–15 at the bottom point, sl st back up the chain to create a little crocheted stem. It’s a small detail that makes the whole piece feel more finished and botanical.
Try different colors. While classic green is the obvious choice, don’t limit yourself. A white monstera coaster looks incredibly chic against a dark wood table. A golden yellow version could pass for an autumn leaf. Dark burgundy gives it an unexpected, moody vibe. Let your home décor guide your color choices.
Use them beyond coasters. These little monstera leaves are incredibly versatile. Sew a few together to create a table runner, attach them to a gift box as a decorative tag, use them as appliqués on tote bags or pillow covers, or string several together for a crochet garland. Once you’ve made a few, you’ll start seeing possibilities everywhere.
Making This Pattern Your Own
One of the best things about working with a simple, open pattern like this one is how much room there is for personalization. If you’re comfortable with the basic structure, try experimenting with texture. Working the main body of the leaf in a textured stitch like the waffle stitch or the bobble stitch creates a beautiful dimensional quality that photographs beautifully and feels wonderful under your fingertips.
You can also play with scale. This pattern as written produces a coaster-sized leaf, but if you use bulky yarn and a larger hook, the same basic structure will give you a placemat-sized leaf. Scale it up further and you could create a stunning decorative wall hanging. Scale it down with fine yarn and a tiny hook and you’ve got jewelry components or gift tags.
If you’re working on building your skills, this pattern is a wonderful opportunity to practice shaping through increases and decreases, working into a magic ring, joining rounds cleanly, and adding a neat edge. All of these techniques will serve you across countless future projects.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
My coaster is curling at the edges. This is almost always a tension issue. Try loosening your tension slightly, or go up a hook size. Wet blocking will also help significantly.
The splits don’t look defined enough. Make sure you’re truly skipping the stitches between lobes rather than accidentally working into them. The skip is what creates the gap, so if you’re too timid about leaving those stitches unworked, the splits will close up.
My lobes are uneven. Count your stitches carefully at each row. It helps to place a stitch marker at the center of your base circle before you begin working the lobes, so you know you’re dividing everything evenly.
The center is puckering. Your magic ring might be pulled too tight. Leave just a tiny bit of room in the ring — you can always gently tug on the tail to tighten it after the first round is complete.
Final Thoughts
There’s something deeply satisfying about taking a ball of yarn and a few hours of time and ending up with something as cheerful and functional as a set of monstera coasters. This free easy crochet monstera pattern gives you a finished object that feels current, intentional, and genuinely beautiful — without requiring any advanced skills or expensive materials.
Whether you’re making these for yourself, gifting them to a plant-loving friend, or selling them at a craft fair, they’re guaranteed to get attention. People are drawn to anything that captures that lush, tropical monstera energy, and a handmade version carries an extra layer of warmth and care that you simply can’t buy in a store.
So pull out that skein of green cotton, grab your hook, and get started. Your coffee table is waiting.
If you make this pattern, I’d love to see your results — tag your photos and share them with the crochet community. Happy making!