Crochet doilies are delicate, elegant, and versatile pieces that add charm to any room. Though they might look intricate, many beautiful doily patterns are surprisingly easy to make — especially with modern, simplified techniques.
In this tutorial, we’ll walk you through making a very easy and beautiful round crochet doily, perfect for beginners or anyone looking for a relaxing project.
🌸 What Is a Crochet Doily?
A doily is a decorative piece made from fine yarn or thread, usually circular and worked in the round with repeating lace-like patterns. They can be used under vases, candles, frames, or even incorporated into wall hangings and garments.
🧵 Materials You’ll Need
- Cotton crochet thread (size 10 is beginner-friendly)
- Alternative: Lightweight or fine yarn for a more rustic look
- Steel crochet hook size 1.5 mm–2.0 mm (or appropriate for your thread/yarn)
- Scissors
- Tapestry needle for weaving in ends
- Stitch markers (optional)
- Blocking materials (foam board, pins, spray bottle)
🧶 Basic Stitches & Abbreviations
This pattern uses simple crochet stitches:
- ch – chain
- sl st – slip stitch
- sc – single crochet
- dc – double crochet
- tr – treble crochet (optional version)
- sp – space
- st(s) – stitch(es)
📐 Size & Gauge
This doily will measure approximately 7–10 inches in diameter depending on your yarn, hook size, and tension. You can adjust the final size by:
- Using thicker yarn and a larger hook for a bigger doily
- Using thinner thread and a smaller hook for finer lace
✨ Easy Round Doily Pattern (Beginner-Friendly)
Let’s create a simple floral-inspired round doily in just 8 rounds. Each round builds on the last with chain spaces and basic stitches, creating a lacey, circular effect.
🌀 Round-by-Round Instructions
Start with a magic ring (or ch 4, sl st to form a ring).
🌼 Round 1:
- Ch 3 (counts as dc), 11 dc into ring.
- Sl st to top of ch-3 to join. (12 dc)
🌼 Round 2:
- Ch 3, dc in same st, ch 1, (2 dc in next st, ch 1) repeat around.
- Join with sl st. (12 dc groups, 12 ch-1 spaces)
🌼 Round 3:
- Sl st into next dc, sl st into ch-1 sp, ch 3 (counts as dc), dc, ch 2, 2 dc in same sp.
- (2 dc, ch 2, 2 dc) in each ch-1 space around.
- Join with sl st. (12 shells)
🌼 Round 4:
- Sl st into next dc, sl st into ch-2 sp, ch 3, dc, ch 3, 2 dc in same sp.
- (2 dc, ch 3, 2 dc) in each ch-2 space around.
- Join with sl st. (12 shells with 3-ch loops)
🌼 Round 5:
- Sl st into ch-3 sp, ch 1, (sc, ch 5, sc) in each ch-3 space around.
- Join with sl st. (12 ch-5 loops)
🌼 Round 6:
- Sl st into first ch-5 loop, ch 3 (counts as dc), 6 dc in same loop.
- (7 dc in next ch-5 loop) repeat around.
- Sl st to top of ch-3 to join. (12 petal clusters)
🌼 Round 7:
- Ch 1, sc in same st, ch 5, skip 3 sts, sc in 4th st.
- (ch 5, skip 3, sc) repeat around.
- Join with sl st. (12 ch-5 loops again)
🌼 Round 8 (Final Edge):
- Sl st into first loop, (sc, ch 3, sc, ch 5, sc, ch 3, sc) into each ch-5 loop around.
- Join with sl st to first sc. Fasten off and weave in ends.
🧺 Blocking Your Doily (Important for Shape!)
Blocking is essential to help your doily lay flat and bring out the beautiful lacework.
- Wet the doily slightly with water (or use a steam iron).
- Lay it flat on a foam board or clean towel.
- Pin each point or petal evenly in a circular shape.
- Allow to dry completely before unpinning.
🎀 Customization Ideas
- 🌈 Color changes: Try using ombré thread or changing color every few rounds.
- 🌻 Thread weight: Use lace thread for a fine doily or worsted yarn for a cozy, farmhouse look.
- 🧷 Add beads: Thread small seed beads between stitches for a vintage effect.
- 🪞 Frame it: Mount your doily on fabric in an embroidery hoop for wall art.
🎁 Perfect Uses for Crochet Doilies
- Under candles, vases, or bowls
- As centerpieces or coasters
- In gift wrapping for handmade touch
- Sew onto pillowcases or tote bags
- Combine multiple for a crochet table runner
Video tutorial:
🌟 Final Thoughts
This very easy crochet doily pattern is perfect for beginners and experienced crocheters looking for a quick and satisfying project. With basic stitches and just 8 simple rounds, you’ll create something both elegant and practical.
Start with one — but be warned: making doilies is beautifully addictive!
