🧶 Project Overview:
These cute crochet baby shoes are soft, warm, and perfect for newborns. They’re worked in rounds, starting from the sole, then shaped to form the sides and top. We’ll use simple stitches and provide clear instructions that even new crocheters can follow.
📏 Finished Size:
- Length: Approximately 3.5–4 inches (9–10 cm)
- Age: 0–3 months
- You can adjust size by changing hook or yarn weight.
📦 Materials:
| Item | Recommended Details |
|---|---|
| Yarn | Lightweight (Category 3) cotton or soft acrylic |
| Hook | 3.5 mm (E-4) or as needed for gauge |
| Yarn Needle | For weaving in ends |
| Scissors | For trimming yarn |
| Stitch Marker | Optional, to mark rounds |
| Button/Ribbon | Optional, for strap decoration |
🧵 Stitches & Abbreviations (U.S. Terms):
- ch – chain
- sl st – slip stitch
- sc – single crochet
- hdc – half double crochet
- dc – double crochet
- inc – increase (2 sts in one st)
- dec – decrease (join two sts into one)
🌼 Part 1: Sole of the Shoe
Make 2 soles (one for each shoe)
Foundation Chain:
plaintextCopyEditCh 11
Round 1:
- Hdc in 2nd ch from hook and next 8 ch.
- 5 hdc in last ch (toe curve).
- Work along the other side of the chain: hdc in next 8 sts, 2 hdc in last st (heel).
- Join with sl st. (24 hdc)
Round 2:
- Ch 1, hdc in same st, hdc in next 8 sts.
- 2 hdc in next 5 sts (toe curve).
- Hdc in next 8 sts.
- 2 hdc in last 2 sts (heel).
- Join. (31 hdc)
Round 3:
- Ch 1, sc around entire sole, working 1 sc in each st, increasing 1–2 sc at curves for shaping.
- Join. Fasten off and weave in end.
🩰 Part 2: Building the Sides
Attach yarn to back center (heel) of sole.
Round 4:
- Ch 1, sc in back loops only of each st around. (This creates a ridge at the base.)
- Join with sl st. (31 sc)
Round 5:
- Ch 1, hdc in each st around.
- Join. (31 hdc)
Round 6:
- Ch 1, hdc in next 10 sts.
- Hdc2tog (dec) 5 times across the toe.
- Hdc in remaining sts.
- Join. (26 hdc)
Round 7:
- Ch 1, hdc in next 8 sts.
- Hdc2tog 5 times (to shape the toe).
- Hdc in remaining sts.
- Join. (21 hdc)
You can adjust toe shaping if you want a rounder or more snug fit.
🎀 Part 3: Shoe Strap (Optional)
You can create a Mary Jane-style strap:
Strap Option:
- Attach yarn to the side of the shoe.
- Ch 9 (or longer depending on desired length).
- Sl st back into opposite side of the shoe.
- Fasten off and sew a small button where the strap ends.
Or:
- Use a decorative ribbon as a tie across the top.
✨ Embellishments (Optional)
- Tiny flowers or bows (crocheted or fabric)
- Buttons or pearls (make sure they are securely sewn on!)
- Embroidery with soft yarn
🧼 Care Instructions
- Use baby-friendly, washable yarns.
- Hand wash or gentle machine wash in a mesh bag.
- Lay flat to dry to preserve shape.
💡 Tips for Success
- Gauge matters — use a smaller hook if the shoes are too big.
- Keep your stitches tight so the shoes hold shape.
- Customize colors for girls, boys, or neutral themes.
🎁 Perfect Gift Idea
These shoes make a wonderful baby shower gift, newborn photo prop, or just a cozy little treasure for your own baby. Pair them with a matching hat or cardigan for a complete handmade outfit.
Video tutorial:
