Half Moon Crochet Carpet – Free Crochet Pattern

The Half Moon Crochet Carpet is a stylish and functional addition to any home, perfect for doorways, bathrooms, or any space where you want a decorative yet practical touch. The half-moon shape creates a visually appealing design that fits nicely into small or curved spaces. Using bulky or cotton yarn makes this project a quick and durable crochet item, great for beginners or intermediate crocheters.

In this tutorial, we’ll guide you through creating a Half Moon Crochet Carpet, using basic stitches and techniques to make a sturdy, textured rug.

Materials Needed for the Half Moon Crochet Carpet

To create your Half Moon Crochet Carpet, gather the following materials:

• Yarn: Choose bulky weight (category 5) yarn for a thick, sturdy rug.
  • Main Color (MC): 500-700 grams (depending on the size of the carpet).
• Crochet Hook: Size 6.5mm (K-10.5) or 7mm, depending on your yarn choice.
• Tapestry Needle: For weaving in ends.
• Scissors: For trimming yarn.

Cotton or cotton-blend yarn is highly recommended for rugs, as it’s durable, washable, and gives the rug a solid structure. Choose a neutral color for a classic look or experiment with different colors to match your home decor.

Stitches Used in the Pattern

• Magic Ring (MR)
• Chain (CH)
• Slip Stitch (SL ST)
• Single Crochet (SC)
• Double Crochet (DC)
• Increase (INC): 2 stitches worked into the same stitch.

This pattern is worked in rows, starting from the center and expanding outward in a half-moon shape. You will use basic crochet stitches to create a textured, sturdy design.

Step-by-Step Instructions for the Half Moon Crochet Carpet

The Half Moon Crochet Carpet is worked in rows, beginning with a magic ring and expanding in a semi-circle. You will increase stitches as you go to maintain the half-moon shape.

Foundation and First Row

1. Start with a Magic Ring using your main color.
2. Row 1: Chain 3 (this counts as your first DC), then work 9 double crochets (DC) into the magic ring.
   • Total: 10 DC
   • Pull the ring tight to close the center.
   • Turn your work.

This creates the foundation of the half-moon shape. You will be working back and forth in rows from this center point.

Row 2: Increasing Stitches

3. Row 2: Chain 3 (counts as first DC), work 1 DC into the same stitch, work 2 DC in each stitch across.
   • Total: 20 DC
   • Turn your work.

This row doubles the number of stitches and begins the expansion of the half-moon.

Row 3: Expanding the Half-Moon

4. Row 3: Chain 3 (counts as first DC), work 1 DC in the next stitch, work 2 DC in the next stitch (increase), repeat across.
   • Total: 30 DC
   • Turn your work.

Each row adds more stitches, gradually expanding the semi-circular shape of the carpet.

Row 4: Continuing the Increase Pattern

5. Row 4: Chain 3 (counts as first DC), work 1 DC in the next 2 stitches, work 2 DC in the next stitch (increase), repeat across.
   • Total: 40 DC
   • Turn your work.

This row continues the increase pattern, gradually widening the carpet.

Rows 5-12 (or Desired Size): Increasing and Expanding

6. Rows 5-12: Continue following the same increase pattern, adding 10 stitches each row:
   • Row 5: Work 1 DC in the next 3 stitches, 2 DC in the next stitch (increase), repeat across.
   • Row 6: Work 1 DC in the next 4 stitches, 2 DC in the next stitch (increase), repeat across.

   Continue this pattern, increasing the number of stitches between each increase by 1 for every row. For example:

   • Row 7: Work 1 DC in the next 5 stitches, 2 DC in the next stitch (increase).
   • Row 8: Work 1 DC in the next 6 stitches, 2 DC in the next stitch (increase).

Repeat until your carpet reaches the desired size (12 rows will give you a small to medium rug, around 30 inches wide).

Optional: Adding a Border

To give your Half Moon Carpet a finished look, you can add a simple border around the curved edge.

1. Single Crochet Border: Once you’ve completed the last row, reattach yarn at the corner (if necessary). Work 1 SC in each stitch around the curved edge of the half-moon, and work 3 SC into each corner to keep the edge flat.
2. Slip Stitch Edge (Optional): For a cleaner look, you can work a slip stitch around the edge instead of a single crochet, giving it a subtle, smooth border.

Fasten off and weave in the ends.

Finishing the Half Moon Crochet Carpet

1. Weaving in Ends: Use a tapestry needle to weave in any loose ends, making sure they are hidden within the stitches.
2. Blocking (Optional): To help the carpet lay flat, you can lightly block it. Dampen the rug slightly and lay it flat on a towel to dry. Pin the edges if necessary to ensure it retains the half-moon shape.

Customizing Your Half Moon Crochet Carpet

There are many ways to customize your Half Moon Crochet Carpet to fit your space and style.

1. Change the Colors

You can crochet the carpet in one solid color for a simple, classic look or alternate between two or more colors to create stripes or a gradient effect. You could even use a variegated yarn for a unique, multi-colored design.

2. Adjust the Size

To make a larger or smaller rug, simply add more or fewer rows. You can continue the increase pattern to make the half-moon carpet as big as you need, or stop early for a smaller mat.

3. Add Texture

For a more textured look, you can alternate between double crochet and half double crochet stitches, or even incorporate front and back post double crochets to create raised ridges.

Common Questions About the Half Moon Crochet Carpet

How do I adjust the size of the carpet?

To adjust the size, simply continue following the increase pattern for as many rows as needed to reach your desired size. You can stop early for a small mat or keep adding rows for a larger rug.

Can I use different yarn types?

Yes! Cotton is ideal for durability and ease of care, but you can use other yarns like acrylic or wool blends depending on the texture and feel you want. Be sure to use a sturdy yarn that can withstand foot traffic if you’re using the rug in high-traffic areas.

How do I care for the carpet?

Crochet carpets made with cotton or acrylic yarn can typically be machine washed on a gentle cycle and laid flat to dry. Follow the care instructions on your yarn label for the best results.