This pattern focuses on using simple crochet stitches worked in specific ways to mimic the vertical lines and subtle texture of knitting. We’ll primarily use single crochet worked in the back loop only (scblo) to create this effect.
Skill Level: Easy
Materials:
- Worsted weight yarn in your desired color (soft baby yarn is recommended)
- Crochet hook size G/6 (4.0 mm) or size needed to obtain gauge
- Scissors
- Yarn needle for weaving in ends
- Stitch markers (optional, but helpful)
- Measuring tape
Gauge:
While gauge isn’t critical for baby shoes, aim for approximately 4 single crochet worked in the back loop only (scblo) to measure 1 inch. This will help ensure your booties come out to a reasonable size.
Sizes (approximate sole length):
- Newborn (0-3 months): 3.5 inches
- 3-6 months: 4 inches
- 6-9 months: 4.5 inches
- 9-12 months: 5 inches
Abbreviations:
- ch: chain
- sc: single crochet
- hdc: half double crochet
- sl st: slip stitch
- scblo: single crochet in the back loop only
- inc: increase (work 2 sc in the same stitch)
- dec: decrease (work 2 sc together)
- rep: repeat
- st(s): stitch(es)
Video pattern
Pattern:
Sole (Make 2):
We’ll start by creating an oval sole. Adjust the initial chain to achieve the desired length for the baby’s age.
- Newborn (0-3 months): Ch 9 3-6 months: Ch 11 6-9 months: Ch 13 9-12 months: Ch 15
- Round 1: Sc in the 2nd ch from the hook, sc in the next (number of ch – 2) sts, 3 sc in the last ch. Working on the opposite side of the chain, sc in the next (number of ch – 2) sts, 2 sc in the last ch. (Total sts: 12, 14, 16, 18)
- Round 2: Inc in the next st, sc in the next (number of ch – 3) sts, inc x 3, sc in the next (number of ch – 3) sts, inc x 2. (Total sts: 18, 20, 22, 24)
- Round 3: Sc in the next st, inc, sc in the next (number of ch – 3) sts, (sc, inc) x 3, sc in the next (number of ch – 3) sts, (sc, inc) x 2. (Total sts: 24, 26, 28, 30)
- Round 4 (Optional for larger sizes): Sc in the next 2 sts, inc, sc in the next (number of ch – 3) sts, (sc x 2, inc) x 3, sc in the next (number of ch – 3) sts, (sc x 2, inc) x 2. (Total sts: 30, 32, 34, 36)
Fasten off the first sole and weave in the end. Do not fasten off the second sole.
Upper:
Now, we’ll work around the edge of the second sole to create the upper part of the bootie.
- Round 1: Working in the back loops only (scblo) around the entire edge of the second sole, sc in each st. (Total sts: 24, 26, 28, 30 or 30, 32, 34, 36 depending on sole size)
- Round 2-7 (Adjust as needed for desired height): Ch 1 (does not count as a st), scblo in each st around. (Maintain the same number of stitches as the previous round)
At this point, you’ll have a little cup shape. Now we’ll shape the front of the bootie.
Shaping the Toe:
- Round 8: Ch 1, scblo in the next (total sts / 3) sts. Place a stitch marker. Scblo in the next (total sts / 3) sts. Place another stitch marker. Scblo in the remaining (total sts / 3) sts.
- Round 9: Ch 1, scblo to the first marker. Dec over the next 2 sts (remove marker), scblo to the second marker. Dec over the next 2 sts (remove marker), scblo to the end of the round.
- Round 10: Ch 1, scblo to the first decrease of the previous round, dec over the next 2 sts, scblo to the second decrease of the previous round, dec over the next 2 sts, scblo to the end of the round.
- Round 11 (Optional): Continue decreasing in the same manner for one more round if you want a more pronounced toe shape.
Fasten off and weave in the end.
Ankle Cuff (Optional):
You can add a small cuff for extra detail and a snugger fit.
- With the right side facing, join yarn at the back of the bootie.
- Round 1: Ch 1, hdc in each st around. Sl st to the first hdc to join.
- Round 2: Ch 1, hdc in each st around. Sl st to the first hdc to join.
Fasten off and weave in the end.
Finishing:
- Sew the two soles together using your yarn needle and the yarn tail from the first sole. Ensure a neat and secure seam.
- Weave in any remaining ends.
Tips for Achieving the “Knitted Look”:
- Consistent Tension: Maintaining even tension throughout your project is crucial for a smooth, knitted-like fabric.
- Back Loop Only (scblo): This technique creates the vertical ridges that mimic knit stitches. Make sure you are consistently working into the back loop of each stitch.
- Simple Stitches: Sticking to basic stitches like single crochet enhances the clean lines associated with knitting.
- Yarn Choice: A smooth, matte yarn will often resemble knitting more closely than a fuzzy or highly textured yarn.
- Color Choice: Solid colors tend to showcase the texture created by the scblo more effectively.
Variations:
- Stripes: Introduce stripes of different colors for a playful look.
- Edging: Add a contrasting color edging around the ankle cuff using a simple stitch like a crab stitch (reverse single crochet) for a neat finish.
- Embellishments: Once the booties are complete, you can add small crocheted flowers, buttons, or other embellishments for a personal touch.
There you have it! A detailed pattern for creating easy crochet baby shoes that beautifully mimic the look of knitting. Take your time, enjoy the process, and you’ll have a charming pair of booties for that special little one. Happy crocheting!
