Looking for a simple yet adorable crochet project for a new arrival? These easy baby booties are perfect! Using just a few basic stitches, you can create a cozy and secure pair of shoes for tiny feet. This pattern is ideal for beginners and works up quickly, making it a fantastic last-minute gift or a satisfying first foray into baby crochet.
Skill Level: Absolute Beginner
Materials:
- Worsted weight yarn in your desired color
- Crochet hook size H/8 (5.0 mm) or size needed to obtain gauge
- Yarn needle for weaving in ends
- Scissors
- Stitch marker (optional, but helpful for marking the beginning of rounds)
Gauge:
Gauge isn’t critical for this project, but aim for approximately 4 single crochet (sc) stitches to measure about 1 inch. Adjust your hook size if needed.
Finished Size:
This pattern is written for approximately 0-3 months (sole length around 3 inches). Instructions for slight adjustments will be included.
Abbreviations (US Crochet Terms):
- ch: chain
- sl st: slip stitch
- sc: single crochet
- hdc: half double crochet (used for a slightly taller cuff, optional)
- st(s): stitch(es)
- beg: beginning
- rep: repeat
- inc: increase (work 2 stitches in the same stitch)
Video tutorial
Let’s Get Started!
Part 1: Crocheting the Sole (Make 2)
We’ll start with a simple oval shape for the sole.
Round 1: Ch 9. In the 2nd ch from the hook, sc 1. Sc in the next 6 ch. In the last ch, work 3 sc. Now working on the other side of the chain, sc in the next 6 ch. Sc in the last ch (where you started the first sc). Sl st to the first sc. (18 sts)
Round 2: Ch 1, sc in the same st. Sc in the next 7 sts. Inc in the next 3 sts. Sc in the next 7 sts. Inc in the last 2 sts. Sl st to the first sc. (23 sts)
Round 3: Ch 1, sc in the same st. Sc in the next 8 sts. (Sc 1, inc) repeat 3 times. Sc in the next 8 sts. (Inc, sc 1) repeat 2 times. Sl st to the first sc. (28 sts)
Fasten off the first sole and weave in the end. Make a second sole, but do not fasten off after the last round.
Part 2: Creating the Sides of the Bootie
Now we’ll work in the back loops only to create the upward curve of the bootie sides.
Round 1: Ch 1, sc in the back loop only (BLO) of each st around. Sl st to the first sc. (28 sts)
Round 2: Ch 1, sc in each st around. Sl st to the first sc. (28 sts)
Rounds 3-6 (or until desired height): Repeat Round 2. These rounds will form the main body of the bootie. You can adjust the number of rounds here to make the bootie taller or shorter.
Part 3: Shaping the Toe
We’ll now create a simple rounded toe by working decreases in the front section.
Round 7: Ch 1, sc in the next 9 sts. Now we’ll work a series of decreases: sc2tog (single crochet two together) 5 times. Sc in the remaining 9 sts. Sl st to the first sc. (23 sts)
Round 8: Ch 1, sc in the next 7 sts. Sc2tog 5 times. Sc in the remaining 6 sts. Sl st to the first sc. (18 sts)
Round 9: Ch 1, sc in the next 5 sts. Sc2tog 4 times. Sc in the remaining 5 sts. Sl st to the first sc. (14 sts)
Fasten off and weave in the end of the second bootie.
Part 4: Creating the Cuff (Optional)
You can add a simple cuff for a snugger fit around the ankle.
Option 1: Single Crochet Cuff
- With the right side facing you, attach your yarn to any stitch at the top opening of the bootie.
- Ch 1, sc in each st around. Sl st to the first sc.
- Repeat this round for 2-3 more rounds, or until you reach your desired cuff height.
- Fasten off and weave in the end.
Option 2: Half Double Crochet Cuff (Slightly Taller)
- With the right side facing you, attach your yarn to any stitch at the top opening of the bootie.
- Ch 2 (does not count as a stitch), hdc in each st around. Sl st to the first hdc.
- Repeat this round for 1-2 more rounds.
- Fasten off and weave in the end.
Finishing Touches:
- Weave in all remaining yarn ends securely.
- You can add a simple tie or strap if desired. For a basic tie, crochet a chain of about 20-25 stitches and weave it through the top of the bootie.
Adjusting the Size:
- For a smaller size: Use a smaller hook and/or thinner yarn. You can also work fewer rounds on the sole.
- For a larger size: Use a larger hook and/or thicker yarn. You can also add an extra round to the sole and a few more rounds to the body of the bootie.
Tips for the Easiest Booties:
- Keep it Simple: Don’t overthink it! These booties are meant to be easy. Focus on consistent stitches.
- Stitch Markers: If you’re new to working in rounds, a stitch marker can be helpful to mark the beginning of each round.
- Yarn Choice: A soft, baby-friendly yarn will make these booties extra cozy.
- Practice: If this is your first time crocheting booties, don’t be discouraged if your first attempt isn’t perfect. Practice makes progress!
Congratulations! You’ve now created the easiest and most adorable pair of crochet baby booties. These little shoes are sure to keep those tiny toes warm and snug. Enjoy your beautiful handmade creation!
