These adorable little booties are designed with the absolute beginner in mind. Using only single crochet and a few simple shaping techniques, you’ll be amazed at how quickly you can create a sweet and practical gift for a new arrival.
Skill Level: Absolute Beginner
Materials:
- Worsted weight yarn in your desired color (a small amount is needed)
- Crochet hook size H/8 (5.0 mm) or size needed to obtain gauge (though gauge isn’t critical for this project)
- Yarn needle for weaving in ends
- Scissors
Gauge:
Don’t worry too much about exact gauge for this project, as long as your stitches are relatively tight and even.
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
- st(s): stitch(es)
- beg: beginning
- rep: repeat
- inc: increase (work 2 single crochet in the same stitch)
Video tutorial
Let’s Get Started!
Part 1: Crocheting the Sole (Make 2)
We’ll start by creating the flat, oval base of the shoe.
Row 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, turn your work and 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). Do not join this round. (18 sts)
Row 2: Ch 1, turn. 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. (23 sts)
Row 3: Ch 1, turn. 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. (28 sts)
Row 4: Ch 1, turn. Sc in the same st. Sc in the next 9 sts. (Sc 2, inc) repeat 3 times. Sc in the next 9 sts. (Inc, sc 2) repeat 2 times. (33 sts)
For a slightly larger sole (approx. 3-6 months, 3.5 inches): Add one more row: Ch 1, turn. Sc in the same st. Sc in the next 10 sts. (Sc 3, inc) repeat 3 times. Sc in the next 10 sts. (Inc, sc 3) repeat 2 times. (38 sts)
Fasten off the first sole and weave in the end. Make a second sole, but do not fasten off after the last row.
Part 2: Creating the Sides of the Shoe
Now we’ll work around the edge of the second sole to build up the sides of the shoe.
Round 1: Do not turn. Ch 1. Now, working in the back loops only of each stitch of the last row of the sole, sc all the way around. Sl st to the first sc to join the round. (33 or 38 sts)
Round 2: Ch 1, sc in each st around. Sl st to the first sc. (33 or 38 sts)
Rounds 3-5 (or until desired height): Repeat Round 2. This will create the little “cup” shape of the shoe. You can add more rounds here if you want a taller shoe.
Part 3: Shaping the Top of the Shoe
Now we’ll create the opening for the baby’s foot. We’ll do this by skipping some stitches at the front.
Round 6: Ch 1, sc in the next 10 (or 12 for larger size) sts. Ch 13 (this will form the top strap). Skip the next 13 (or 14 for larger size) sts. Sc in the remaining 10 (or 12 for larger size) sts. Sl st to the first sc. (You’ve created a loop at the front).
Round 7: Ch 1, sc in the next 10 (or 12 for larger size) sts. Sc in each of the 13 chain stitches of the strap. Sc in the remaining 10 (or 12 for larger size) sts. Sl st to the first sc. (33 or 38 sts)
Part 4: Creating the Ankle Strap
Now we’ll make a simple strap to help keep the shoe on.
- With the right side facing you, attach your yarn to one side of the shoe opening (where the main part of the shoe meets the strap).
- Ch 10 (adjust the length if you need it longer or shorter).
- Starting in the 2nd ch from the hook, sc in each ch across. (9 sc)
- Sl st to the other side of the shoe opening to attach the strap.
- Fasten off and weave in all ends.
Part 5: Adding a Fastener (Optional)
To make the strap functional, you can add a simple button or a small piece of Velcro.
- For a Button: Sew a small button to the side of the shoe opposite where you attached the end of the strap. The button should be positioned so the strap can comfortably loop around it.
- For Velcro: Sew small pieces of hook and loop fastener to the end of the strap and the corresponding spot on the shoe.
Finishing Touches:
- Make sure all your yarn ends are securely woven in.
- You can add small decorative elements if you like, such as a tiny crocheted flower or a small bow sewn to the front. Just ensure they are securely attached and pose no choking hazard.
Congratulations! You’ve now made your first pair of adorable crochet baby shoes. These simple booties will keep those tiny toes warm and cozy. With a little practice, you’ll be making them in all sorts of colors! Happy crocheting!
