Sure, here’s a description of how to crochet an easy Moss Stitch Hot Pad with a free pattern:

Materials You’ll Need:

  1. Yarn: You can use any cotton yarn in the color of your choice. Cotton is a good choice for hot pads because it’s heat-resistant and easy to clean.
  2. Crochet Hook: Choose an appropriate hook size for your yarn. A 4.5mm or 5mm hook is a good starting point.
  3. Scissors: For cutting yarn.
  4. Yarn Needle: For weaving in ends.

Pattern:

Note: The Moss Stitch, also known as the Linen Stitch, is a simple and textured stitch that creates a sturdy fabric, perfect for hot pads.

Step 1: Foundation Chain

Start by making a foundation chain with a multiple of 2 stitches, plus 1 extra stitch for turning. You can make your hot pad as big or small as you like, but for a standard size, try chaining 31.

Step 2: First Row – Foundation Row

Starting in the second chain from your hook, work the following:

  • Insert your hook into the second chain from the hook.
  • Yarn over and pull up a loop (2 loops on your hook).
  • Yarn over and pull through both loops.
  • Skip the next chain.
  • Insert your hook into the following chain.
  • Yarn over and pull up a loop.
  • Yarn over and pull through both loops.
  • Repeat this pattern (insert, yarn over, pull up a loop, yarn over, pull through 2 loops) across the entire foundation chain.

Step 3: Second Row and Beyond – Moss Stitch

For the next row and all subsequent rows, you’ll continue with the Moss Stitch pattern:

  • Chain 1 (counts as your turning chain).
  • *Insert your hook into the space created by the chain-1 in the previous row (not into a stitch).
  • Yarn over and pull up a loop.
  • Insert your hook into the space between the single crochet and the chain-1 space in the previous row.
  • Yarn over and pull up a loop.
  • Yarn over and pull through all loops on your hook.*

Repeat this pattern across the row. Your last stitch should be worked into the top of the turning chain from the previous row.

Repeat the second row until your hot pad is the desired size, typically around 8-10 inches square.

Step 4: Finishing

Once your hot pad reaches the desired size, cut the yarn, leaving a tail. Pull the tail through the loop on your hook to secure it. Use a yarn needle to weave in the ends neatly.

Optional: You can add a border to your hot pad by single crocheting evenly around the edges, working 3 single crochets in each corner to keep it flat. This will give it a polished look.

And that’s it! You’ve created a simple and attractive Moss Stitch Hot Pad. It’s a versatile project that you can customize with different colors and sizes to match your kitchen decor. Enjoy your crochet journey!