Crochet Boot Tray Mat With Raised Rim (The Puddle Catcher)

This crochet Boot Tray Mat pattern makes a practical and stylish mat that's perfect for catching drips and puddles from wet boots. The raised rim helps contain any mess, making it a great addition to your entryway for rainy or snowy days. You'll enjoy the process of making this mat as it allows you to work with both double crochet and a unique reverse double crochet stitch.

This pattern suits crocheters with some experience, allowing you to practice new stitching techniques while creating a functional item for your home.

Why You'll Love This Boot Tray Mat

• Functional design – the raised rim helps keep your entryway dry and clean.
• Stylish touch – a great way to enhance your home decor.
• Unique stitching techniques – you’ll learn reverse double crochet and other skills.
• Customizable colors – pick your favorite yarns for a personal touch.

Skill Level: Intermediate

This pattern requires knowledge of basic crochet stitches, specifically double crochet and reverse double crochet. If you're comfortable working in rows and following a pattern, you’ll do great!

Crochet Abbreviations (US Terms)

• ch – chain
• dc – double crochet
• st – stitch
• st(s) – stitch(es)
• sk – skip
• sp – space
• rev dc – reverse double crochet

How to Reverse Double Crochet

1. Yarn over and insert your hook into the next stitch from back to front.
2. Yarn over and pull up a loop (three loops on hook).
3. Yarn over and pull through the first two loops on the hook.
4. Yarn over again and pull through the last two loops on the hook.
5. Repeat across the row as instructed.

Size and Gauge

• Finished Dimensions: Approx. 61 cm × 41 cm (24 in × 16 in)
• Gauge: 8 dc and 6 rows = 10 cm (4 in) in double crochet, using main color.

To check your gauge, make a small swatch and adjust your hook size as necessary until you achieve the correct measurement.

How to Crochet a Boot Tray Mat (Step by Step)

Base

The base is worked in rows using double crochet stitches.

1. Foundation Row: With Charcoal Gray, ch 62. (61 sts)
2. Row 1: Dc in 4th ch from hook (counts as 1 dc), dc in each ch across. Turn. (59 sts)
3. Row 2–10: Ch 3 (counts as first dc), dc in each st across. Turn. (59 sts)
4. Row 11: Ch 3, *2 dc in next st, dc in next st; repeat from * across. Turn. (88 sts)
5. Row 12–14: Ch 3, dc in each st across. Turn. (88 sts)

Raised Rim

The raised rim adds height and style to your mat. 6. Row 15: With Deep Blue, ch 1, *rev dc in next st, skipping the last y/o of the last dc; repeat from * across. Turn. (88 sts) 7. Row 16: Ch 1, *dc in next 2 sts, rev dc in next st; repeat from * across. Turn. (88 sts) 8. Row 17–20: Repeat row 16. Turn. (88 sts)

Final Border

You'll finish with a simple border for a neat edge. 9. Row 21: With Charcoal Gray, ch 1, sc in each stitch across. Turn. (88 sts) 10. Row 22: Ch 1, sc around the entire perimeter of the mat, placing 3 sc in each corner for a neat finish. Join with a slip stitch to the first sc.

Assembly & Finishing

• Weaving in Ends: Use a tapestry needle to weave in all ends securely.
• Blocking: Block the mat to ensure it lies flat. Use blocking mats and pins if necessary.

Beginner Tips for a Great Boot Tray Mat

• Choose a comfortable hook size that matches your gauge for a smooth experience.
• Keep your tension consistent to ensure even edges throughout your mat.
• Always count your stitches at the end of each row to keep track of your work.

Common Mistakes (and How to Fix Them)

• My stitches are too tight. – This can happen when you're tense while crocheting. Try to relax your grip and check that you're using the right hook size.
• The shape looks off. – Not keeping track of your stitch count can lead to uneven shapes. Always count your stitches after each row.
• The raised rim isn’t even. – Make sure you follow the pattern closely and double-check each row for stitch counts.

How to Care for Your Boot Tray Mat

To keep your mat looking great, machine wash it cold on a gentle cycle and lay it flat to dry. Avoid bleach, as it can weaken yarn fibers.

FAQ

Can I use a different yarn?

Yes! You can use any heavy weight cotton blend yarn, but make sure to adjust your hook size for the best gauge.

How do I resize the mat?

To resize, simply adjust the foundation chain length and follow the pattern accordingly, keeping stitch counts in mind.

How long will it take to finish?

Expect to spend about 6 hours total: 2 hours for the base, 3 hours for the raised rim, and 1 hour for the final border.

Looking for more? Check out our cozy collection of home decor patterns.

Image shown for inspiration — your finished result may vary slightly.