Pattern | How to crochet the perfect round T-shirt-yarn rug
Crocheting a round T-shirt yarn rug is one of those projects that combine home décor, creativity, and relaxation in equal measure.
But if you’ve ever tried it, you’ve probably encountered the typical problem: the rug doesn’t turn out perfectly round, but instead has a hexagonal shape, ripples, or lifts at the edges.
In this complete guide, you’ll learn step by step how to crochet a perfect round rug, with the correct increase distribution, tips for combining colors, calculating materials, and achieving a professional result.
We’ll use Terra T-shirt yarn as an example, as it is ideal for this type of project thanks to its lightness, softness, and consistent thickness.
Contents
- Materials needed
- Before you begin: how to make a perfect round rug
- How to close the rounds correctly
- Basic pattern for crocheting the perfect round rug
- Increase chart for a perfect circle
- How to combine colors in the rug
- How to calculate size and material usage
- Final tips for a professional finish
- Pattern inspiration and variations
- Conclusion and material recommendation
- Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Materials needed
Before you begin, make sure you have everything you need:
- Terra T-shirt yarn (6 skeins for approximately a 1-meter diameter) → View Terra T-shirt yarn colors at Idealium
- 10 mm crochet hook (important for keeping the stitch loose and flexible).
- Scissors.
- Yarn needle for hiding the ends.
- Stitch marker (optional, but very useful).
💡 Tip: when crocheting T-shirt yarn rugs, the stitch should be loose and flexible, not stiff. If you crochet too tightly, the rug will tend to ripple or curl upward.
Before you begin: how to make a perfect round rug
The secret to a perfect round rug lies in distributing the increases correctly. If you always make them in the same place, the circle will take on a hexagonal shape (with pronounced “points”). To avoid this:
- Move the increases in each round. Don’t place them all over the same stitches as in the previous round.
- Count the stitches carefully at the end of each round to make sure the circle grows evenly.
- Keep your tension consistent. If you crochet too tightly, it will close up; if you crochet too loosely, it will ripple.
👉 In the following sections, you’ll find the complete pattern in two versions: one in single crochet and another in double crochet, with the same increase distribution.
How to close the rounds correctly
When crocheting a round rug, there are two ways to work the rounds, and choosing the right one will make all the difference to the final result.
🔸 Option 1: crocheting in a spiral (without closing the round)
With this method, the rounds are worked continuously, without closing at the end of each one. You simply continue crocheting into the first stitch of the previous round.
It is a quick and convenient method, but it creates a slight diagonal at the beginning of the rounds, especially noticeable when changing colors.
That is why it is used more often for monochrome or uniformly textured projects.
🔸 Option 2: closing each round with a slip stitch
This is the most recommended method for t-shirt yarn rugs.
At the end of each round:
- Close with 1 slip stitch into the first stitch of the round.
- Make 1 chain to begin the next round when working in single crochet, or 3 chains when working in double crochet.
This method keeps the perfectly round shape, prevents shifting, and leaves the edges clean and neat.
It also gives the best results when combining different colors, as the joins remain invisible.
💡 Idealium recommendation:
For rugs crocheted with Trapillo Terra, we recommend always closing the rounds with a slip stitch and turning with the appropriate chain. The result will be more balanced, symmetrical, and professionally finished.
Basic pattern for crocheting the perfect round rug
This pattern works with any t-shirt yarn, but with Trapillo Terra you will achieve a light, even texture, without the typical irregularities of recycled t-shirt yarn. Below, we show you the two most commonly used versions: single crochet and double crochet.
Version 1: Single crochet rug
Ideal if you are looking for a denser, firmer, and more durable texture.
Step-by-step instructions
- Magic ring: make a ring (or chain 3, joining the 1st and 3rd chains with a slip stitch) and work 6 single crochets inside.
- Round 2: work 2 single crochets in each stitch (12 stitches).
- Round 3: alternate 1 single crochet, 1 increase → repeat for the entire round (18 stitches).
To grow the rug, on round 4 we would alternate 2 single crochets + 1 increase and repeat this sequence; on round 5 we would alternate 3 single crochets + 1 increase; and so on... increasing by 6 stitches on each round, and shifting the increases forward by 1 stitch each time.
However, if you always begin the round in the same way, the increases will line up along the same vertical line and the circle will become distorted, taking on a hexagonal shape. Therefore, you need to vary the beginning of each round to distribute the increases optimally around the circle and create the perfect circle.
In the following section, you will find the chart with the exact pattern and sequence to crochet in each round to achieve the perfect circular shape in your T-shirt yarn rug. Instructions are included for up to 40 rounds.
Version 2: Double crochet rug
This version is lighter and more elastic, with a soft finish and beautiful drape.
Step-by-step instructions
- Magic ring (or 3 chain stitches joined from the 1st to the 3rd with a slip stitch), crochet 12 double crochets inside.
- Round 2: crochet 2 double crochets in each stitch (24 stitches).
- Round 3: 1 double crochet, 1 increase → repeat (36 stitches).
To grow the rug, in round 4 you would alternate 2 double crochets + 1 increase and repeat this sequence; in round 5, you need to alternate 3 double crochets + 1 increase; and so on... increasing by 12 stitches in each round, and shifting the increases forward by 1 stitch each time.
However, if you always begin the round in the same way, the increases will line up along the same vertical line and the circle will become distorted, taking on a hexagonal shape. Therefore, you need to vary the beginning of each round to distribute the increases optimally around the circle and create the perfect circle.
In the following section, you will find the chart with the exact pattern and sequence to crochet in each round to achieve the perfect circular shape in your T-shirt yarn rug. Instructions are included for up to 40 rounds.
🔸 Illustrative example: After 20 rounds in double crochet, using Trapillo Terra, you will achieve a 1-meter diameter using 6 bobbins.
Increase chart for a perfect circle
This chart will serve as a reference for distributing the increases correctly without deforming the circle.
Notes:
- When “inc” (increase) is indicated, crochet 2 stitches in the same stitch or space, creating an increase and making 2 stitches where there was only 1.
- The number of stitches is shown in the format “XX / XX”:
- The first number represents the stitches when working in single crochet.
- The second The number represents the stitches when working in double crochet.
- Working in single crochet, we increase by 6 stitches per round. Working in double crochet, we increase by 12 stitches per round.
- “Start of round” is indicated only when it differs from the “Sequence” to be repeated during that round. In that case, the “End of round” is indicated, which will contain the number of stitches missing at the beginning to complete the sequence. Rounds that begin with an increase have no difference between the start and end; the round begins with the indicated “Sequence”.
How to read the chart:
- In round 1, there is no sequence; crochet 6 single crochets or 12 double crochets in the center of the ring.
- In round 2, increase in every stitch.
- En la v.3 se teje la secuencia 1 punto + 1 aumento, 1 punto + 1 aumento... en toda la vuelta.
- In round 3, crochet the sequence 1 stitch + 1 increase, 1 stitch + 1 increase... throughout the round.
- In round 4, start with the increase and crochet the sequence increase + 2 stitches, increase + 2 stitches... throughout the round.
| In round 5, start the round with 2 stitches and then make the increase; next, repeat the sequence of 3 stitches + increase until the end of the round. After the last increase, 1 stitch will remain to be crocheted at the end of the round. | Round | Start of round | Sequence for the rest of the round | End of round |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | - | – | - | 6 / 12 |
| 2 | - | Total stitches in each round (SC / DC) | - | 12 / 24 |
| 3 | - | increase - increase | - | 18 / 36 |
| 4 | - | 1 - increase | - | 24 / 48 |
| 5 | increase - 2 | increase - 4 | 1 | 30 / 60 |
| 6 | - | 2 - increase | - | 36 / 72 |
| 7 | increase - 4 | increase - 8 | 2 | 42 / 84 |
| 8 | - | 3 - increase | - | 48 / 96 |
| 9 | increase - 6 | 4 - increase | 3 | 54 / 108 |
| 10 | - | 7 - increase | - | 60 / 120 |
| 11 | increase - 8 | 9 - increase | 4 | 66 / 132 |
| 12 | - | 5 - increase | - | 72 / 144 |
| 13 | increase - 10 | 11 - increase | 5 | 78 / 156 |
| 14 | - | 6 - increase | - | 84 / 168 |
| 15 | increase - 12 | 13 - increase | 6 | 90 / 180 |
| 16 | - | 7 - increase | - | 96 / 192 |
| 17 | 8 - increase | 15 - increase | 7 | 102 / 204 |
| 18 | - | increase - 14 | - | 108 / 216 |
| 19 | increase - 16 | 17 - increase | 8 | 114 / 228 |
| 20 | - | 9 - increase | - | 120 / 240 |
| 21 | 10 - increase | 19 - increase | 9 | 126 / 252 |
| 22 | - | increase - 18 | - | 132 / 264 |
| 23 | 11 - increase | 21 - increase | 10 | 138 / 276 |
| 24 | - | increase - 20 | - | 144 / 288 |
| 25 | increase - 22 | 23 - increase | 11 | 150 / 300 |
| 26 | - | 12 - increase | - | 156 / 312 |
| 27 | 13 - increase | increase - 24 | 12 | 162 / 324 |
| 28 | - | 25 - increase | - | 168 / 336 |
| 29 | 14 - increase | 27 - increase | 13 | 174 / 348 |
| 30 | - | increase - 28 | - | 180 / 360 |
| 31 | 15 - increase | 29 - increase | 14 | 186 / 372 |
| 32 | - | increase - 30 | - | 192 / 384 |
| 33 | 16 - increase | 31 - increase | 15 | 198 / 396 |
| 34 | - | increase - 32 | - | 204 / 408 |
| 35 | 17 - increase | 33 - increase | 16 | 210 / 420 |
| 36 | - | increase - 34 | - | 216 / 432 |
| 37 | 18 - increase | 35 - increase | 17 | 222 / 444 |
| 38 | - | increase - 36 | - | 228 / 456 |
| 39 | 19 - increase | 37 - increase | 18 | 234 / 468 |
| 40 | - | increase - 38 | - | 240 / 480 |
💡 Remember: We shift the first increase one stitch forward in each round. This prevents the increases from lining up and ensures your rug is perfectly round.
If you prefer to learn by watching each step in motion, we have prepared a complete video tutorial where you can visually follow how to crochet the round rug using the same pattern you have just seen. In it, you can see how to distribute the increases correctly, how to join the rounds, and how to achieve a perfectly flat, circular finish.
🎥 The video features our Mediterranean Rug, crocheted with Trapillo Terra in double crochet, and it will serve as a visual guide whether you make this version or the single crochet version.
How to combine colors in the rug
A very simple and eye-catching way to customize your rug is to crochet stripes in different colors, with each color covering one or more complete rounds. This not only creates a beautiful decorative effect, but also helps you keep track of the rounds.
🎨 Color combination ideas:
- Minimalist: neutral tones (beige, gray, white).
- Modern: bold contrast, such as raspberry + dark gray.
- Natural: a mix of green, sand, and cream.
- Childlike: dusty pink, white, and mint.
👉 Find your favorite Trapillo Terra shades here.
How to calculate size and material usage
| Approx. diameter | No. of rounds | Terra T-shirt Yarn Bobbins |
|---|---|---|
| 60 cm | 12 rounds | 3 bobbins |
| 80 cm | 16 rounds | 4 bobbins |
| 100 cm | 20 rounds | 6 bobbins |
| 120 cm | 24 rounds | 8 bobbins |
Measurements calculated using double crochet
📏 Tip: measure the diameter with the rug spread out on a flat surface, without stretching it.
Final tips for a professional finish
- If it ripples: you are crocheting too loosely. Reduce your tension slightly or remove one increase.
- If it curves upward: you are crocheting too tightly. Loosen your tension or add one more increase.
- To make it completely flat: when finished, lightly dampen it and leave it to dry on a flat surface (a bed, towel or yoga mat).
- To hide the ends: use a large yarn needle and weave them between the stitches on the wrong side.
- To keep it looking beautiful: wash gently by hand or in the washing machine at 30°C, and dry flat.
Pattern inspiration and variations
From this pattern, you can create many more projects:
- Coasters or trivets: the same first rounds with thin T-shirt yarn or macramé cord.
- Small rugs: 2–3 balls → 50–60 cm diameter.
- Mediterranean version: the same double crochet pattern, changing color every 2 rounds, with our step-by-step video tutorial.
Conclusion and material recommendation
Crocheting your own T-shirt yarn rug is a wonderful experience: it relaxes you, decorates your home and makes it feel warmer and more personal. Follow this step-by-step pattern, choose your favorite Terra T-shirt Yarn colors and enjoy the process.
👉 See all Terra T-shirt Yarn colors at Idealium
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
1. Why does my rug ripple or form waves?
Because there are too many stitches or you are crocheting too loosely.
2. Why does it curve or shrink at the edges?
Because there are too few increases or the stitch is too tight.
3. How many yarn balls do I need?
It depends on the size. For a 1-meter diameter, approximately 6 balls of Terra T-shirt Yarn (crocheting in double crochet).
4. Can I use another type of material?
Yes, although the result will vary. You can use the same pattern, but the size and number of yarn balls needed will vary. Also keep in mind that lightweight T-shirt yarn such as Terra is more flexible and comfortable than recycled or pure cotton yarn.
5. Can I wash the rug?
Yes, in the washing machine at 30°C on a gentle cycle. Dry it flat and avoid using the tumble dryer.
✨ Choose your favorite colors and create your rug
Discover our collection of Terra T-shirt Yarn: lightweight, even and perfect for crocheting round rugs with a professional finish.
View Terra T-shirt Yarn
