Textured Yoke Rows (as seen in picture): After your final increase row, work 2-3 rows alternating FPhdc and BPhdc to create the ribbed texture on the yoke. Work in rows, turning at the end of each.
Joining for Armholes & Body:
Next Row (after final yoke increase row): Ch 2. Hdc in each hdc until you reach the first corner ch-1 sp. Hdc 1 in corner ch-1 sp. Ch 2 (this creates the armhole space). Sk ALL sts between this corner and the next corner. Hdc 1 in the next corner ch-1 sp. Hdc in each hdc across the Front Panel until you reach the next corner ch-1 sp. Hdc 1 in corner ch-1 sp. Ch 2 (this creates the second armhole space). Sk ALL sts between this corner and the next corner.Hdc 1 in the next corner ch-1 sp. Hdc in each hdc until the end of the row. . Sl st to the first hdc of the row to join.You will now work in rounds for the skirt.
Part 2: The Lacy Skirt (Working in Rounds)
The skirt is the main feature, with a beautiful openwork shell or fan pattern.
Using Contrast Color (CC – White):
Round 1 (Foundation for Lace): Ch 3 (counts as dc). Dc in each st around. Sl st to join. Ensure your stitch count is a multiple of 4 or 5 for the skirt pattern.
Round 2 (First Lace Row – Shells): Ch 3 (counts as dc). (Dc 1, ch 1, dc 2) in same st (forms first Shell). *Sk 3 sts, (dc 2, ch 1, dc 2) in next st (Shell made).* Repeat from * to * around. Sl st to 3rd ch of beg ch-3 to join.
Round 3 (Shells in Shells): Sl st into the ch-1 sp of the first Shell. Ch 3 (counts as dc). (Dc 1, ch 1, dc 2) in same ch-1 sp (first Shell made). *Shell (dc 2, ch 1, dc 2) in the ch-1 sp of the next Shell.* Repeat from * to * around. Sl st to 3rd ch of beg ch-3 to join.
Repeat Round 3 of the Skirt Lace Pattern until the skirt reaches your desired length. The picture shows a good number of repeats for a flowing skirt with a scalloped edge naturally created by the shell pattern.
Fasten off CC.
Part 3: Finishing Touches
Neckline Edging (using MC – Pink): Join MC yarn to the top right corner of the back opening. Row 1: Ch 1. Sc evenly around the entire neckline opening. Join with sl st to first sc. Fasten off MC and weave in ends.
Sleeve Edging (using MC – Pink): Join MC yarn to the bottom of one armhole. Round 1: Ch 1. Sc evenly around the armhole opening. Join with sl st to first sc. Fasten off MC and weave in ends. Repeat for the second sleeve.
Back Closure: The image shows a couple of buttons on the back.
- Button Loops: On one side of the back opening (e.g., the right side when looking at the back of the dress), join MC yarn at the top. Ch 3 (to form a loop), sl st into a nearby stitch to create a small button loop. Make 2-3 loops evenly spaced down the back opening.
- Buttons: Sew 2-3 small buttons onto the opposite side of the back opening, aligning them with the button loops.
Large Satin Ribbon & Rhinestone Embellishment:
- Take your white satin ribbon. Thread it through the stitches just above the skirt section, where the pink yoke meets the white skirt, weaving it in and out to create a decorative band. Tie a large, full bow at the front of the dress, as seen in the picture.
- Carefully attach the rhinestone embellishment to the center of the bow using fabric glue or by sewing, ensuring it’s secure and baby-safe.
Final Touches:
- Weave in all remaining yarn ends securely.
- Block the dress gently to open up the lace pattern and ensure evenness.
Adjusting for Different Sizes:
- Initial Chain: Adjust the initial chain to fit the head circumference, always ensuring it works with your yoke increase formula (e.g., a multiple of 4 + 4 for the hdc rows).
- Yoke Rows: Add or subtract yoke increase rows (Row 3 repeats) to achieve the desired chest circumference and armhole depth. Measure regularly!
- Armhole Chain: For larger sizes, you might need to chain 3-4 stitches for the armhole bridge instead of 2.
- Skirt Length: Add or subtract repeats of the lace pattern rounds to achieve the desired length.
- Gauge Swatch: ALWAYS make a gauge swatch for garments to ensure the correct fit!
Enjoy crocheting this beautiful and elegant little dress! It’s a wonderful project that results in a cherished handmade item.
