This delicate and elegant baby dress is designed with the timeless pineapple lace motif, making it perfect for special occasions such as birthdays, christenings, or simply a beautiful handmade gift. The lightweight and breathable design ensures comfort for the baby, while the intricate details add a touch of vintage charm.
This pattern is suitable for intermediate to advanced crocheters, as it involves working with lace stitches and understanding pattern repeats. However, determined beginners who are willing to take their time can also enjoy making this lovely piece.
Sizing & Measurements
- Size: 0-6 months (with instructions to adjust for larger sizes)
- Finished Chest Circumference: Approx. 16–18 inches
- Length: Approx. 12–14 inches (can be lengthened as desired)
To make a larger size, increase the foundation chain in multiples of 6 and adjust the bodice rows accordingly.
Materials Needed
- Yarn: Light DK or Fingering Weight Cotton Yarn (Approx. 200g for 0-6 months)
- Hook Size: 3.5mm (E-4) or size needed for gauge
- Scissors
- Tapestry Needle (for weaving in ends)
- Stitch Markers (optional)
- Ribbon (optional, for decoration)
- Buttons (optional, for back closure)
Abbreviations (US Terms)
- ch – chain
- sc – single crochet
- dc – double crochet
- tr – treble crochet
- sl st – slip stitch
- sp – space
- st(s) – stitch(es)
- rep – repeat
Instructions
Bodice (Worked in the Round, Top-Down Construction)
Foundation:
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Ch 60 (or a multiple of 6 to fit chest circumference). Join with a sl st to form a ring, ensuring it is not twisted.
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Round 1: Ch 3 (counts as first dc), dc in each ch around. Join with sl st to top of ch 3. (60 dc)
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Rounds 2-5: Ch 3, dc in each st around. Sl st to join. (Continue increasing in even increments if making a larger size.)
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Round 6 (Eyelet Row for Ribbon – Optional):
- Ch 3, dc in next 4 sts, ch 1, skip 1 st, dc in next 5 sts, ch 1, skip 1 st, dc in next 5 sts; repeat around. Join with Sl St.
At this point, you can weave a ribbon through the eyelet row later if desired.
Pineapple Lace Skirt Section
Now we begin the pineapple lace pattern that forms the flared skirt.
Round 7 (Setup for Pineapple Pattern):
- Ch 5 (counts as dc, ch 2), skip 2 sts, dc in next st, ch 2, skip 2 sts, dc in next st; repeat around. Join with Sl St.
Round 8:
- Ch 3, dc in same st, ch 2, 2 dc in next dc (forms a V-stitch), repeat around.
Round 9:
- Ch 3, dc in next st, ch 3, sc in ch-2 space, ch 3, dc in next 2 dc, ch 3, sc in ch-2 space, ch 3; repeat around.
Rounds 10-22:
- Follow the pineapple lace motif, continuing to expand the pattern by adding ch-3 spaces and increasing the lace sections.
- Work until the desired dress length is reached. For a longer dress, continue repeating the pineapple sections.
Finishing Touches
Sleeves (Optional Cap Sleeves)
If you would like to add small ruffled sleeves, do the following:
- Attach yarn to the armhole.
- Work 5 dc in each space around to create a ruffle effect.
- Fasten off and weave in ends.
Edging & Border:
- For a neat hem, work a picot edging (Ch 3, sl st in the first ch, sc in next st, repeat) or a shell stitch border (5 dc in one st, skip 2 sts, sc, skip 2 sts, repeat).
Back Closure (If Needed):
- If you made the bodice with an opening at the back, sew on small buttons or attach snap fasteners for easy dressing.
Final Steps
- Block the dress gently by dampening and shaping it to enhance the lace details.
- Weave a ribbon through the eyelet round at the waistline if desired.
- Try it on your little one and admire your beautiful handmade creation!
Pattern Adjustments for Larger Sizes
- For 6-12 months, increase the foundation chain (e.g., Ch 66 or 72).
- For a toddler size, use a larger hook (e.g., 4mm) and add more rows to the bodice.
Conclusion
This Sweet Pineapple Baby Dress is a charming and timeless crochet piece, perfect for gifting or dressing up a special little one. Whether you keep it simple or add extra embellishments, this dress will undoubtedly become a treasured handmade garment.
Would you like a matching bonnet or booties pattern to go with the dress? Let me know how I can assist you further! 😊
