Mystic Moonbeam Eye Rest Catcher Free Crochet Pattern
Mystic Moonbeam Eye Rest Catcher: A Free Celestial Crochet Pattern
Transform your nightstand into a starry sanctuary with this enchanting eye glass holder! The Mystic Moonbeam Eye Rest Catcher is a dreamy, celestial-inspired crochet project that combines functionality with whimsical charm. This cozy tray keeps your spectacles safe while adding a touch of magic to your bedroom decor. Featuring a soft, textured indigo tray adorned with a golden crescent moon and cream stars, this pattern is perfect for intermediate beginners ready to explore shaping and motif work. Let's dive into this delightful cosmic creation!
Materials Needed
Before we begin our celestial journey, gather these supplies:
- Yarn: Worsted weight yarn in three colors:
- Deep Indigo (A) – approximately 100g for the tray
- Soft Gold (B) – approximately 50g for the crescent moon
- Cream (C) – approximately 20g for the stars
- Crochet Hooks:
- 4.0 mm (G) hook for the tray
- 3.5 mm (E) hook for the motifs
- Notions: Yarn needle for weaving ends and sewing motifs, scissors
Gauge Information
- Tray: 14 double crochet (dc) x 8 rows = 10 cm (4") with 4.0 mm hook
- Motifs: 16 single crochet (sc) x 18 rows = 5 cm (2") with 3.5 mm hook
Note: Gauge is important for achieving the correct finished size, but for this project, slight variations won't affect functionality.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Part 1: The Tray (Make 1)
The tray forms the base of your eye glass holder. Worked in continuous rounds of double crochet, it creates a sturdy, dense fabric perfect for holding spectacles.
Round 1: With yarn A and 4.0 mm hook, make a magic ring. Chain 2 (counts as first dc), work 11 double crochet (dc) into the ring. Join with a slip stitch (sl st) to the top of the beginning chain-2. (12 dc total)
Round 2: Chain 2 (counts as dc), dc in the same stitch (this creates an increase). Work 2 dc in each stitch around. Join with sl st to top of chain-2. (24 dc total)
Round 3: Chain 2, dc in same stitch, dc in next stitch. *Work 2 dc in next stitch, dc in next stitch* – repeat from * to * around. Join with sl st. (36 dc total)
Round 4: Chain 2, dc in same stitch, dc in next 2 stitches. *Work 2 dc in next stitch, dc in next 2 stitches* – repeat from * to * around. Join with sl st. (48 dc total)
Round 5: Chain 2, dc in same stitch, dc in next 3 stitches. *Work 2 dc in next stitch, dc in next 3 stitches* – repeat from * to * around. Join with sl st. (60 dc total)
Round 6: Chain 2, dc in same stitch, dc in next 4 stitches. *Work 2 dc in next stitch, dc in next 4 stitches* – repeat from * to * around. Join with sl st. (72 dc total)
Rounds 7-9: Chain 2, dc in each stitch around. Join with sl st at the end of each round. (72 dc each round)
Round 10: Chain 1, single crochet (sc) in each stitch around. Join with sl st to first sc. Fasten off and weave in all ends securely.
💡 Pro Tip: The final round of single crochet creates a neat, finished edge that prevents the tray from stretching out of shape. For extra stability, you could work this round in the back loops only for a crisp ridge effect.
Part 2: Crescent Moon Motif (Make 1)
This charming crescent shape uses increasing rows with varied stitch heights to create its gentle curve. The combination of sc, hdc, dc, and tr stitches gives the moon its textured, dimensional appearance.
Row 1: With yarn B and 3.5 mm hook, chain 6. Single crochet (sc) in 2nd chain from hook and in each chain across. (5 sc)
Row 2: Chain 1, turn. Sc in first stitch, half double crochet (hdc) in next stitch, double crochet (dc) in next stitch, hdc in next stitch, sc in last stitch. (5 stitches)
Row 3: Chain 1, turn. Sc in first stitch, 2 sc in next stitch, sc in next stitch, 2 sc in next stitch, sc in last stitch. (7 stitches)
Row 4: Chain 1, turn. Sc in first stitch, hdc in next stitch, dc in next stitch, treble crochet (tr) in next stitch, dc in next stitch, hdc in next stitch, sc in last stitch. (7 stitches)
Row 5: Chain 1, turn. Sc in first stitch, 2 sc in next stitch, sc in next 3 stitches, 2 sc in next stitch, sc in last stitch. (9 stitches)
Row 6: Chain 1, turn. Sc in first stitch, hdc in next stitch, dc in next stitch, tr in next stitch, dc in next stitch, tr in next stitch, dc in next stitch, hdc in next stitch, sc in last stitch. (9 stitches)
Row 7: Chain 1, turn. Sc in first stitch, 2 sc in next stitch, sc in next 5 stitches, 2 sc in next stitch, sc in last stitch. (11 stitches)
Row 8: Chain 1, turn. Sc in first stitch, hdc in next stitch, dc in next stitch, tr in next stitch, dc in next stitch, tr in next stitch, dc in next stitch, tr in next stitch, dc in next stitch, hdc in next stitch, sc in last stitch. (11 stitches)
Row 9: Chain 1, turn. Sc in first stitch, 2 sc in next stitch, sc in next 7 stitches, 2 sc in next stitch, sc in last stitch. (13 stitches)
Row 10: Chain 1, turn. Sc in first stitch, hdc in next stitch, dc in next stitch, tr in next stitch, dc in next stitch, tr in next stitch, dc in next stitch, tr in next stitch, dc in next stitch, tr in next stitch, dc in next stitch, hdc in next stitch, sc in last stitch. (13 stitches)
Fasten off, leaving a long tail (approximately 20 cm / 8") for sewing. Gently curve the row of increases to shape the crescent into a moon arc. The increases create the outer curve while the varied stitch heights form the inner curve.
🌟 Shaping Tip: To enhance the crescent shape, gently steam block the motif or lightly dampen it and pin it into a curved shape while drying. This will help the moon hold its elegant arc when sewn onto the tray.
Part 3: Star Motifs (Make 2)
These adorable five-pointed stars are worked in the round, creating perfect celestial accents for your tray.
Round 1: With yarn C and 3.5 mm hook, make a magic ring. Chain 1, work 10 single crochet (sc) into the ring. Join with a slip stitch (sl st) to the first sc. (10 sc)
Round 2: Chain 1, sc in same stitch. *Chain 3, skip next stitch, sc in next stitch* – repeat from * to * 4 more times. Chain 3, skip last stitch, join with sl st to first sc. (5 chain-3 loops)
Round 3: Slip stitch into the first chain-3 loop. Chain 1, work (sc, hdc, dc, hdc, sc) in the same loop. *Sl st in next sc, work (sc, hdc, dc, hdc, sc) in next chain-3 loop* – repeat from * to * 3 more times. Slip stitch to the first sc to join. Fasten off, leaving a long tail (approximately 15 cm / 6") for sewing.
✨ Star Points: Each (sc, hdc, dc, hdc, sc) cluster forms one point of the star. The chain-3 loops between rounds create the separation between points, giving your star that classic five-pointed silhouette.
Part 4: Assembly
Now it's time to bring your celestial scene together!
- Position the moon: Place the crescent moon motif on the inner bottom of the tray, slightly off-center. This creates a more dynamic, artistic composition. Use the long tail and a yarn needle to sew it securely in place with small, invisible stitches along the edges.
- Attach the stars: Position the two star motifs near the moon – one on each side. Sew them in place using their long tails, making sure they're evenly spaced for visual balance.
- Secure all ends: Weave in any remaining loose ends carefully on the wrong side of the tray to ensure a clean, professional finish.
Finishing Touches & Care Instructions
Your Mystic Moonbeam Eye Rest Catcher is now complete! To keep it looking its best:
- Blocking: Lightly steam block the tray to ensure it lies perfectly flat. Avoid pressing too hard on the motifs to preserve their dimensional quality.
- Cleaning: Spot clean with a damp cloth and mild soap if needed. Avoid machine washing, as this may distort the shape.
- Storage: When not in use, store flat to maintain the tray's shape.
This celestial eye glass holder makes a thoughtful handmade gift for friends and family – or a delightful treat for your own nightstand! The combination of deep indigo, warm gold, and soft cream creates a soothing, magical aesthetic that evokes a clear night sky. Happy crocheting, and may your nights be filled with sweet dreams and perfectly placed spectacles! 🌙✨