Crocheting a baby girl’s summer dress is a rewarding projectβit’s creative, customizable, and heartfelt. Whether you’re a seasoned crocheter or just starting out, this tutorial will guide you through making a lightweight, breathable dress ideal for sunny days.
π Skill Level:

Beginner to Intermediate
π Sizes Covered:
0β3 months, 3β6 months, 6β12 months (adjustable by using different hook sizes and yarn thickness)
π§΅ Materials Youβll Need:
Item | Details |
---|---|
Yarn | Lightweight (Category 3) cotton or cotton-blend yarn (e.g., 300β400 yards for size 6β12 months) |
Crochet Hook | 3.5 mm (E) or 4 mm (G), depending on your tension |
Tapestry Needle | For weaving in ends |
Scissors | Small and sharp |
Buttons | 2β3 small buttons (optional for back closure) |
Stitch Markers | To mark the beginning of rounds |
π§Ά Stitches Used:
- Ch β Chain
- Sl St β Slip Stitch
- Sc β Single Crochet
- Hdc β Half Double Crochet
- Dc β Double Crochet
- V-Stitch β (Dc, ch 1, Dc) in the same stitch
- Shell Stitch β 5 Dc in the same stitch
πΈ Design Overview
This summer dress features:

- A top-down yoke
- Sleeveless or cap sleeve design
- Open airy skirt with shell or v-stitch pattern
- Optional buttoned back closure
πͺ‘ Pattern Instructions
π§’ STEP 1: Start with the Yoke (Top)
This part fits around the babyβs chest and shoulders.
Foundation:
- Ch 52 (0β3 months), 60 (3β6 months), 68 (6β12 months). Join with sl st to form a ring. Be careful not to twist.
- Round 1: Ch 2 (counts as Dc), Dc in each ch around. Join with sl st. (52, 60, 68 Dc)
Yoke Increase:
Youβll create increases to shape the shoulder area.
- Round 2: Dc in next 6 sts, 2 Dc in next β repeat around.
- Round 3β6: Continue increasing every few stitches (add 1 between increases each round). Stop when it fits like a yoke across chest and upper back.
Measure your work: for 6β12 months, yoke height should be ~3.5β4″.
π STEP 2: Separate Sleeves and Body
Place stitch markers:
- Mark the sleeve areas (typically 18% of total stitches per sleeve).
- Chain underarm stitches (e.g., 6β10 chs), then skip sleeve stitches and join with sl st to start the body.
Now youβve formed armholes!
π« STEP 3: Crochet the Skirt
The skirt can be done in a beautiful, breezy stitch pattern.
Option A: Shell Stitch Skirt
- Round 1: Attach yarn, skip 2 sts, 5 Dc in next st, skip 2 sts, Sc in next β repeat around.
- Round 2+: In each Sc, make a Shell (5 Dc). In center Dc of each Shell, Sc.
Option B: V-Stitch Skirt (More airy)
- Round 1: Dc, ch 1, Dc in same st, skip 1β2 sts, repeat.
- Rounds 2+: Work V-stitch in each ch-1 space.
Continue pattern until skirt is desired length:
- 6″ for newborn
- 7β8″ for 3β6 months
- 9β10″ for 6β12 months
π STEP 4: Finish the Edges
Neckline:
- Sc around the neckline to neaten.
- Optional: leave a small slit in the back with 2β3 button loops and sew on buttons.
Armholes:
- Sc evenly around to finish.
Hem (Bottom Edge):
- Add a decorative round (Picot or Shell) to the bottom if desired.
πΌ STEP 5: Customize
- Add a small bow, ribbon, or crocheted flower.
- Use contrasting yarn for trim or stripes.
- Try a ruffle or flare for a fancier look.
π Sizing Tips
Age | Chest Circumference | Dress Length |
---|---|---|
0β3 months | ~16″ | 6β7″ |
3β6 months | ~17″ | 7β8″ |
6β12 months | ~18β19″ | 8β10″ |
You can easily adjust sizing by:
- Using larger or smaller hooks
- Adding or reducing yoke rounds
- Changing the number of skirt rows
π§Ό Care Instructions

Always use baby-safe yarn. Cotton is ideal for summer: itβs soft, breathable, and washable.
Washing Tips:
- Hand wash or use gentle cycle
- Lay flat to dry
- Avoid harsh detergents
πͺ‘ Final Thoughts
Crocheting a baby girl’s summer dress combines function and fashionβperfect as a gift, keepsake, or a little handmade wardrobe addition. With just a few basic stitches and a bit of creativity, you can create something truly special.
π Happy crochetingβand donβt forget to share your handmade sunshine with the world!
Video Tutorial: