Spring Inspired Hot pad

This Free Crochet Spring Inspired hot pad is made by using a traditional Granny square pattern and is sure to brighten any kitchen!

Materials:

Use 100% cotton yarn, Use either a "G" size or an "F" size crochet hook.

Directions:

This pattern uses the traditional Granny Square Pattern adding a final row of single crochet in each stitch around to make a bit more of a finished edge.  You can find directions for making a granny square at Craftown- just add however many rounds you wish until the size is just right.  

Round 1: Chain 4 to 6 and join with a slip stitch in the first chain to make a ring. Chain 3. (This chain counts as the first dc stitch.) Make 2 dc in the ring, catching in the loose thread end. (ch 2, 3 dc) in ring. Repeat (ch 2, 3 dc) twice more. Ch 2 and join with a slip stitch to the top of the starting ch 3.

Round 2: Chain 3. Make 2 dc in the corner space (immediately below the chain three). Ch 1. Make (3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc, ch 1) in the next corner space. Repeat (3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc, ch 1) twice more. Make 3 dc in the next (first) corner space. Ch 2 and join with a slip stitch to the top of the starting ch 3.

Round 3 and more: Repeat the same pattern. (ch 3, 2 dc, ch 1) in the corner space. This makes the initial corner. Put a group of (3 dc, ch 1) in each space across the side. In the corner spaces, put (3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc, ch 1). Begin the rounds and close the last corner as in round 2.