Introduction
Add a splash of artisanal charm to your bathroom with this radiant sunburst crochet set, inspired by the beauty of vintage lacework and modern practicality. The set features a cohesive design of bold, geometric sunbursts in a warm, terracotta-red hue, creating a striking and coordinated look. This suite includes a large rectangular rug, a U-shaped contour mat for the toilet base, an elegantly fitted toilet seat cover, and a matching tank topper—all boasting intricate openwork detailing and textural interest. Each piece combines visual appeal with durability, making your bathroom both stylish and comfortable. With its classic yet contemporary design, this crochet collection stands out as a delightful project for anyone who enjoys blending functional decor with creative flair. Whether crafted for your own home or to give as a thoughtful handmade gift, this set will add warmth, comfort, and beauty to your bath space for years to come.
The dense yet airy texture of these motifs ensures absorbency and quick drying, while the strong stitches keep everything in place. The vivid terracotta color injects energy and personality, easily coordinated with natural, boho, or even minimalist interiors. Making this set is a gratifying endeavor for any crocheter seeking to elevate bathroom style with handcrafted textiles.
Project Overview
This bathroom set is constructed with four main pieces: a large rectangular rug, a contour (U-shaped) toilet mat, a fitted toilet lid cover, and a tank topper. Each piece starts with a central sunburst medallion motif, worked in the round, then expands into squared or contoured shapes using a combination of openwork mesh and textured blocks. The border is finished with a simple bobble or scalloped edging to unify the set. Pieces are made separately and all in a single color for visual harmony; minimal joining is required, mostly weaving in ends and securing covers with optional elastic.
Skill Level
Intermediate. This pattern involves combining various stitch patterns, shaping, working in the round and in rows, and creating fitted covers, but it’s easy to follow for those familiar with post stitches, increases, and basic shaping.
Materials
- Worsted Weight (Category 4) Cotton Yarn: Approx. 850–950 grams (30–34 oz), color of choice (sample shown: terracotta orange). Divide as follows: Rug – 350g, U-mat – 250g, Lid Cover – 200g, Tank Topper – 150g.
- Crochet Hook: 4.0 mm (G-6) or size needed for gauge.
- Tapestry Needle: For weaving in ends and sewing seams.
- Stitch Markers: Useful for marking center points and joining rounds.
- Scissors.
- Optional: 6 mm soft elastic cord (for fitting the toilet lid cover snugly).
- Measuring Tape: For checking gauge and sizing pieces to fit.
Finished Size
Rectangular Rug: Approx. 66 x 42 cm (26 x 16.5 inches).
U-shaped Mat: Approx. 55 x 44 cm (21.5 x 17.5 inches), with an 18 cm (7 in) wide U opening.
Lid Cover: Fits standard oval lids up to 43 cm x 36 cm (17 x 14 in).
Tank Topper: Fits tank tops up to 38 x 19 cm (15 x 7.5 in).
To adjust size, work additional rounds or rows after the motif section, or use a larger/smaller hook and yarn weight.
Gauge
In pattern: 14 dc and 7 rows/rounds = 10 cm (4 in) square, after blocking.
Gauge is important for the lid cover and U-mat fit; for rugs, a slight difference only affects the finished size. Measure after the sunburst motif section to confirm sizing.
Stitches and Abbreviations
- ch: chain
- sl st: slip stitch
- sc: single crochet
- hdc: half double crochet
- dc: double crochet
- tr: treble crochet
- fpdc: front post double crochet
- bpdc: back post double crochet
- inc: increase (2 sts in same st)
- dec: decrease (work 2 sts together)
- sp: space
- st(s): stitch(es)
- MR: magic ring
- RS: right side
Pattern Notes
- Unless noted, ch-3 at start of a round/row counts as a dc; ch-4 counts as tr and ch-1.
- Work motifs in joined rounds. Join with sl st to first st of each round unless otherwise specified.
- On the rugs, add new yarn at the start of any round. For the lid cover and tank topper, turn work after each row on the shaping sections.
- For neat color changes, finish the last pull-through of the previous st with the new yarn.
- Stitch markers are helpful when dividing motifs into corners and sides, or marking U-opening on the contour mat.
- The right side is typically the side facing you as you work; keep orientation consistent for all pieces.
Crochet Pattern Instructions
Center Sunburst Motif (Used for Rug, U-Mat, Lid Cover, and Tank Topper)
- With terracotta yarn, make a MR.
- Round 1: Ch 3 (counts as dc), 15 dc in ring, join with sl st to top of ch-3. (16 dc)
- Round 2: Ch 3, dc in same st, 2 dc in each dc around, join. (32 dc)
- Round 3: Ch 4 (counts as tr), tr in next st, ch 1, *tr in next 2 sts, ch 1; rep from * around, join. (32 tr, 16 ch-1 sps)
- Round 4: Sl st to next ch-1 sp, ch 3, (2 dc, ch 1, 2 dc) in same sp, *skip next 2 tr, (2 dc, ch 1, 2 dc) in next ch-1 sp; rep from * around, join. (8 clusters)
- Round 5: Sl st to ch-1 sp, ch 5 (counts as tr, ch 1), tr in same sp, ch 1, *tr in next ch-1 sp, ch 1, tr in same sp, ch 1; rep from * around, join. (16 tr, 16 ch-1 sps)
Expanding to Square (For Rug, Tank Topper)
- Round 6: Sl st to next ch-1 sp, ch 3, 2 dc in same sp, (3 dc in each ch-1 sp) until next corner, (2 dc, ch 2, 2 dc) in corner ch-1 sp, *3 dc in each sp to next corner, (2 dc, ch 2, 2 dc) in corner* three more times, join. (4 corners created, approx 80 dc)
- Round 7: Ch 3, dc in each st to corner, (2 dc, ch 2, 2 dc) in each corner ch-2 sp; repeat around, join.
- Continue working as established, keeping corners aligned, working enough rounds for the desired size:
- Rug: Work until approx. 66 x 42 cm (26 x 16.5 in), about 15 rounds total.
- Tank Topper: Work until 38 x 19 cm (15 x 7.5 in), about 10 rounds.
U-Shaped Mat (Contour Rug)
- Repeating Rounds 1-5 of the motif above.
- Shape into a rectangle by working back and forth in rows:
Row 1 (RS): Ch 3, dc in each st across half the motif (approx 40 sts), turn.
Row 2: Ch 3, dc in each st across, turn.
Repeat for 5 rows.
Start the U shaping:
Next row, mark the center 16 sts for the U shape. Work dc to marker, leave next 16 sts unworked, dc to end, turn. - Next 5 rows: Ch 3, dc to U opening, ch 16, skip 16 U-opening sts, dc to end. This forms the U slot. Continue in rows, shaping sides until preferred size (approx 44 cm wide). Work a final border of sc evenly around, working (sc, ch 2, sc) in outer corners and around the U for neatness.
Toilet Lid Cover
- Work Center Motif as above through Round 5.
- Continue in the round, forming an oval by alternating (dc inc) at four evenly spaced points each round (imagine north, east, south, and west marks on the motif). Work until the piece matches the lid shape and measures slightly smaller than the lid (about 41 cm x 33 cm/16 x 13 in).
- Edging: Work 1 round of sc. Optionally, add a round of (sc, ch 3, sc) shells for a scallop. For a snug fit, fold under the edge and loosely whipstitch elastic all around the wrong side, stretching slightly as you sew so the cover hugs the lid.
Edging (All Pieces)
- Attach yarn at any corner. *Ch 3, sc in next st; repeat from * around, working extra ch-3/sc in each outer corner and the U-shape of the mat. Fasten off.
Assembly and Finishing
Lay each finished piece flat and gently wet block to measurements; pin into shape and allow to dry completely for crisp stitch definition. Weave in all ends on the wrong side using a tapestry needle. For the lid cover, insert elastic by folding the edge under on the wrong side and stitching into place, stretching as you go for gentle tension and a secure fit. Place the rug and U-mat in their corresponding areas, smooth out for even alignment, and set the tank topper on the tank lid. The cohesive sunburst pattern should face upwards and be centered for best visual effect.
Arrange all pieces before final use to ensure symmetry and that openings (such as the U-mat) fit correctly around the toilet base. Occasionally re-block after washing to keep edges straight and corners crisp. Your set is now ready for use and admiration!
Customization Ideas
- Colors: Use neutrals for a spa-like feel or bold multi-color stripes for a playful vibe. Experiment with ombré effects by blending three shades of the same color.
- Yarn: Try cotton blends for extra softness or acrylic for economy and quick drying. For a plush feel, choose a bulky yarn and a larger hook.
- Alternative Uses: The motif works as a standalone doily, table topper, or as placemats by simply modifying the dimensions. The U-mat can double as an entryway mat.
Troubleshooting
- Curling: If motifs curl, check tension and adjust hook size; gentle blocking usually fixes this.
- Uneven Edges: Missed stitches or inconsistent stitch height may cause wavy borders; carefully count stitches in each round and block when finished.
- Piece Too Large/Small: If your pieces don’t match your bathroom fixtures, measure frequently and add/subtract rounds as needed. Adjust hook size for significant changes.
- Loose Color Changes or Tails: Secure all color changes by weaving ends back and forth or use the Russian join for seamless transitions.
- Uneven Tension: Keep wrist relaxed, check frequently, and block finished pieces to even out minor inconsistencies.
Care Instructions
Machine wash gently in cold water (30°C/86°F) with mild detergent. Lay flat or hang to dry; reshape while damp for best results. Avoid bleach and high heat. Light steam blocking revitalizes stitch definition after washing.
Final Notes
For best results, check stitch counts at the end of each round or row, and adjust your tension to match the gauge if possible. Use the reference photo as visual guidance for stitch placement and shaping—the set is very forgiving to small differences. Enjoy adding a handcrafted, decorative touch to your bathroom!
