Looking for a quick and satisfying crochet project? These super easy baby shoes are perfect! Using just a few basic stitches, you can create a charming and cozy pair of booties for a little one. They make a wonderful last-minute gift or a sweet addition to your own baby’s wardrobe.
Skill Level: Absolute Beginner
Materials:
- Worsted weight yarn in your desired color(s)
- Crochet hook size H/8 (5.0 mm) or size needed to obtain gauge
- Yarn needle for weaving in ends
- Scissors
Gauge:
Gauge isn’t crucial for this project, but aim for approximately 4 single crochet (sc) stitches to measure about 1 inch.
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 sole)
- st(s): stitch(es)
- beg: beginning
- rep: repeat
Video tutorial
Let’s Get Started!
Part 1: Crocheting the Simple Sole (Make 2)
We’ll start with a basic oval shape for the sole.
Option 1: Using Single Crochet (Flatter Sole)
Round 1: Ch 9. Sc in the 2nd ch from the hook and in each of the next 6 ch. In the last ch, work 3 sc. Now, working on the other side of the chain, sc in each of 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 (work 2 sc in the same st) 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. (Inc, sc 1) repeat 3 times. Sc in the next 8 sts. (Sc 1, inc) 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.
Option 2: Using Half Double Crochet (Slightly Thicker Sole)
Round 1: Ch 9. Hdc in the 2nd ch from the hook and in each of the next 6 ch. In the last ch, work 3 hdc. Now, working on the other side of the chain, hdc in each of the next 6 ch. Hdc in the last ch (where you started the first hdc). Sl st to the first hdc. (18 sts)
Round 2: Ch 1, hdc in the same st. Hdc in the next 7 sts. Inc (work 2 hdc in the same st) in the next 3 sts. Hdc in the next 7 sts. Inc in the last 2 sts. Sl st to the first hdc. (23 sts)
Round 3: Ch 1, hdc in the same st. Hdc in the next 8 sts. (Inc, hdc 1) repeat 3 times. Hdc in the next 8 sts. (Hdc 1, inc) repeat 2 times. Sl st to the first hdc. (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 Simple Upper
Now we’ll work in the back loops only to start creating the sides of the shoe.
Round 1: With the second sole (the one you didn’t fasten off), ch 1, sc (or hdc if you used hdc for the sole) in the back loop only of each stitch around. Sl st to the first sc (or hdc). (28 sts)
Round 2: Ch 1, sc (or hdc) in each stitch around. Sl st to the first sc (or hdc). (28 sts)
Rounds 3-5 (or until desired height): Repeat Round 2. You can adjust the number of rounds here to make the shoe taller or shorter.
Part 3: Shaping the Toe Opening
We’ll now create an opening at the front for the baby’s toes.
Round 6: Ch 1, sc (or hdc) in the next 8 sts. Ch 12 (this will form the top of the shoe). Skip the next 12 sts. Sc (or hdc) in the remaining 8 sts. Sl st to the first sc (or hdc). (28 sts total, including the chain space)
Round 7: Ch 1, sc (or hdc) in the next 8 sts. Sc (or hdc) in each of the 12 ch across the chain space. Sc (or hdc) in the remaining 8 sts. Sl st to the first sc (or hdc). (28 sts)
Part 4: Creating the Ankle Strap (Optional)
This simple strap helps keep the shoe on.
- With the right side facing you, attach your yarn to one side of the opening (where the solid part of the shoe meets the chain space).
- Ch 15 (adjust the length as needed).
- Sc in the 2nd ch from the hook and in each ch across. (14 sc)
- Sl st to the other side of the opening.
- Fasten off and weave in the ends.
Part 5: Finishing Touches
- Using your yarn needle, sew the two soles together using a whip stitch or single crochet. Align the edges carefully and work through both layers. Leave the ankle opening unsewn.
- Weave in any remaining yarn ends securely.
Adjusting the Size:
- For a smaller size: Use a smaller hook and/or thinner yarn. You can also work fewer stitches in the initial chain for the sole.
- For a larger size: Use a larger hook and/or thicker yarn. You can also add more stitches to the initial chain for the sole and add extra rounds to the sole and upper.
Variations:
- Color Changes: Introduce stripes or change colors for the main part of the shoe and the strap.
- Edging: Add a simple border around the top opening and strap using a contrasting color or a decorative stitch like a crab stitch (reverse single crochet).
- Embellishments: Once the shoes are complete, you can add small crocheted flowers, buttons (ensure they are securely attached and safe), or bows for a cute touch.
Congratulations! You’ve now created a super easy pair of crochet baby shoes. These simple booties are a wonderful way to keep those little feet warm and cozy. Happy crocheting!
