The Simply Spring baby dress free crochet pattern is designed to make the little girl in you life look adorable while not making you lose your hair with an overly complex crochet pattern. I made this pattern as simple as I could so everyone with a baby girl, be it a daughter, granddaughter, niece, or someone at your church’s baby, you will be able to create this little number for them. I kept the design simple, but adorable and can be worked up in an evening. It can be made with or without the ruffle sleeves. The waistband and bow are also optional. It makes a perfect last-minute baby shower gift! I have provided size newborns through 18 months. You will find a bonus pattern for the headband below as well!
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I made this baby dress with Red Heart Baby Hugs yarn. This yarn’s huggable soft feel is perfect to wrap your baby up in. The worsted weight thickness helps make this baby dress work up quickly for a last minute holiday dress or baby shower. The skirt is full and falls to right above the baby’s knee. This makes it a little airy and easier to buckle our little bundles into their carseat! I made my baby dress a solid color, but it would look just as nice with a self striping yarn or with one color for the bodice and another color for the skirt.
This pattern is designed with beginner crocheters in mind and only uses a chain stitch, slip stitch and half double crochet. If you decide to put the sleeves on this pattern you will use four single crochet stitches. The pattern for Newborn through 6 months is listed below, while the pattern for 6 months through 18 months is here. I separated the two patterns to keep the patterns simple.
I have provided instructions for the headband, waistband and bow. You will also find the head, chest and length measurements I used to create the different sizes. I would default to matching the measurements to the stated baby size and treat the head measurement as the most important measurement because your starting chain will not stretch as much as the stitches in the chest area.
Materials:
Red Heart Baby Hugs Medium Yarn1 skein in main color
Red Heart Baby Hugs Medium Yarn 1 skein in accent color
Clover 1047/H Deep Blue Amour Crochet Hook, Size H, 5.0mm
Needle or smaller hook to weave in ends
Scissors
Stitch Markers or different color piece of yarn
Stitches and Abbreviations:
Ch – Chain
Sc – Single Crochet
Hdc- Half Double Crochet
St(s) – Stitch(es)
Slst- Slip stitch
Gauge, Dimensions:
Gauge:
7 hdc = 2″
4 rows of hdc = 2″
Dimensions:
Please keep in mind that the following measurements are unstretched measurements and the crocheted piece will have some stretch in most areas, except for the head dimensions. I use head dimensions to determine how wide I need my neckline to be to fit around the baby’s head. This are has the starting chain and will have a lot less stretch. I would use the head dimension as your primary dimension.
Newborn: Head – 14.5″ Chest – 14.5″ Length from waist to knee – 5.5″
0-3 Months: Head – 16″ Chest – 16″ Length from waist to knee – 6″
3-6 Months: Head – 17″ Chest – 17″ Length from waist to knee – 6.5″
6-9 Months: Head – 18″ Chest – 18″ Length from waist to knee – 7″
9-12 Months: Head – 19″ Chest – 19″ Length from waist to knee – 7.5″
12-18 Months: Head – 20″ Chest – 20″ Length from waist to knee – 8″
Simply Spring Baby Dress Pattern:
Newborn (0-3, 3-6)
Pattern is written for newborn with 0-3 months and 3-6 months stitch count in parenthesis. The pattern for 9 – 18 months can be found here.
Baby Dress Bodice
Using Main color.
Ch 52 (56, 60) slst to the first ch
Row 1: Ch2, turn. Hdc in the next 6(7,7) ch, [hdc, ch, hdc] in the next ch, *hdc in the next 12 (13, 14) ch, [hdc, ch, hdc] in the next ch* repeat from *to* 3 times. Hdc in the next 6(6,7) ch, slst to the first hdc. Place stitch markers in each ch space.
Row 2: Ch 2, turn. Hdc in the next 7(7,8) sts, [hdc, ch, hdc] in the ch space. *Hdc in the next 14 (15, 16) sts, [hdc, ch, hdc] in the ch space* repeat from *to* 3 times. Hdc in the next 7 (8,8) sts, slst to first hdc. Move your stitch markers to the ch space of this row.
Row 3: Ch 2, turn. Hdc in the next 8(9,9) sts, [hdc, ch, hdc] in the ch space. Next, *Hdc in the next 16 (17, 18) sts, [hdc, ch, hdc] in the ch space* repeat from (to) 3 times. Hdc in the next 8 (8,9) sts, slst to first hdc. Move your stitch markers to the ch space of this row.
Row 4: Ch2, turn. Hdc in the next 9(9,10) sts. Ch 7(9,11), skip the first ch space, skip the next 18(19,20)hdc sts, and the second ch space. Hdc into the next stitch 18(19,20) until you reach the third ch space. Ch 7(9,11), skip the third ch space, skip the next 18(19,20) sts, and the fourth ch space. Hdc in the next 9(10,10) sts. Slst to the first hdc. At this point you can remove your stitch markers. The collar will fold in half and create the arm holes. Moving forward you will be working the waist of the dress.
Here is a photo of row 4 half worked.
Here is the completed row 4.
Row 5: Ch 2, turn. Hdc in the next 9(10,10) sts, hdc in the next 7(9,11) ch, hdc in the next 18(19,20) sts, hdc in the next 7(9,10) ch, hdc in the last 9(9,11) sts. Slst to the first hdc.
Row 6-7: Ch 2, turn. Hdc in the next 50(56,62) sts. Slst to the first hdc.
Row 8: Ch 2, turn. 2Hdc in each of the next 50(56,62) sts. Slst to the first hdc. This finishes the bodice portion. From here you will start making the skirt.
Baby Dress Skirt
Row 9-27: Ch 2, turn. Hdc in the next 100(112,124) sts. Slst to the first hdc.
This is where I finished the newborn skirt. For the 0-3 months skirt I would add one more row. For the 3-6 months skirt I would add two more rows to reach the dimensions listed above. Of course you can always add as many rows as you like to reach the desired length. Just remember that a baby girl dress reaches right below the baby’s knee so that it does not become a problem when buckling the baby into the carseat.
Sleeves (optional)
Row 1: Working in the shoulder area, slst to the fifth chain from the chain space in Row 3. Sc in the next stitch, 2hdc in the next 6(7,8) sts, sc in the next st. slst in the next st. Turn.
Row 2: Slst to the top os the previous rows sc, sc in the next st. Hdc in the next 10(12,14) sts. Sc in the next st. Slst in the next st. Fasten off. Repeat on the other arm hole and weave in ends.
Waistband
Using Accent Color.
Ch 58(62,66), slst to first ch.
Row 1: Ch2, turn. Hdc in each ch, slst to first hdc.
Row 2-3: Ch 2, turn. Hdc in each st, slst to first hdc. Fasten off.
Bow
Using Accent Color.
Ch 34, slst to first ch.
Row 1: Ch2, turn. Hdc in each ch, slst to first hdc.
Row 2-5: Ch 2, turn. Hdc in each st, slst to first hdc. Fasten off leaving 12″ tail.
Place the waistband around the dress, cinch the bow in the middle and use the yarn tail to wrap around the center several times. Place the bow on the waistband and use the yarn to wrap around the bow and sew to the dress. Once it is very secure, tie off the yarn and weave in all ends.
Continue down for a bonus pattern. The daisy headband!
BONUS PATTERN!
Daisy Headband:
With main color:
Ch 44 (49,53). Slst to first ch.
Row 1: Ch2, turn. Hdc in each ch, slst to first hdc. Fasten off. Leave a long tail to use to sew flower to headband.
Flower:
With main color:
Ch 3, hdc 9 into 3rd ch from hook, slst to first hdc. Fasten off.
With accent color:
Slst to any st, ch2, [hdc in next st, ch2, slst to same st] repeat from [to] 9 times. Slst to first st and fasten off. Weave end all ends and use the ends from the headband to sew flower to headband.
Now you have a cute little headband to match your pretty little baby dress, to put on your adorable little girl.
Let me know how you like this free crochet pattern. If you have any questions leave a comment below and I will try and help the best I can. I hope you decide to make a Simply Spring Baby Dress of your own. If you do, I would LOVE to see a photo! If you share it on social media be sure to tag me @windingroadcrochet or #windingroadcrochet
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I just bought some beautiful yarn called Lemon from Red Heart I’m going to make this cute little dress for my great-niece.
I would love to see how it turns out.
Please help, I am stuck…..
When I completed row 4 I have 2 chain 11’s kitty corner from each other
Row 5 says to ch 2 and turn hdc in next 10 sts, hdc in the next 11 ch. there is no ch 11 there
I am extremely confused.
In row 4, you hdc 10 then skip the chain 2 space, skip the next 20 stitches (hdcs) and the next chain 2 space. This folds the collar in half and makes the arm holes. I will insert a picture of this soon. This is proving to be a popular dress. I will be making a video tutorial soon.
I updated the instructions. Let me know if they are any clearer.
Hi! I have a question on your lemon yellow newborn dress. When I reach row 6-7, it says to ch 2. Turn. Hdc in the next 50 (56, 62) sts sl st to the 1st hdc. That would cut collar in half. Can you please advise? Thank you.
Amy
Back in row 4 you skip a large number of stitches that folds the collar in half and creates the arm holes. I am going to work this up and insert a photo to help with this section. In row 6-7 you are working the waist section after the arm holes. Let me know if this helps.
I updated the instructions. Let me know if they are any clearer.
Beautiful dress and awesome photography!! Well done!!
In the Baby Dress Bodice, could you explain what “repeat from (to) 3 times means in row 1. What pattern am I repeating?
Repeat {hdc in the next 12 (13, 14) ch, (hdc, ch, hdc) in the next ch} three times. I can see how that is confusing. I will adjust the pattern and use only one set of parenthesis.
I was just going to comment that the parentheses are confusing to a new crocheter. I have been crocheting for many years and understood what you meant. Thanks for a beautiful little dress.
Yes, they can be. I may add in an explanation of how the parenthesis work. I did change the type of parenthesis used. Some to asterisk and some to box parenthesis. If I discover a better way to write the pattern I will change it. This is also why I made two post. One for newborn – 6 months and one for 6 months – 18 months.Any suggestions on how to write a multiple size pattern is greatly welcomed.
On row 9 when you start on the skirt, it just says chain 2, turn, hdc in next 112. How can this be when I have only made 56 hdc in the previous round? I can only assume you meant to say 2 hdc in each stitch from round 8, which would then add up to 112 stitches in round 9. One hdc in each stitch around rows 10-27. Is this correct, or have I missed something here? The dress is adorable in the pictures, and my bodice worked up nicely. Please help me finish it. Thanks so much! 🙂
Yes you are correct. You will 2hdc in each stitch. That will give you a nice full skirt. I will review that row and make corrections. Thank you for pointing it out. After the working round 9 you will just hdc in each stitch until the dress is long enough for your liking. I wanted to minimize the number of complicated rows.
I found this pattern very easy to read. I am fairly new to crochet and only had to start over once, cause I realized I read the directions wrong, but the dress came out like the picture. Thank you for this pattern!
You are very welcome. The purpose of this pattern is to be a stepping stone into more advance patterns. I will be writing a pattern soon for a summer romper that will be simple like this one to get everyone use to constructing a garment.
Do you have any pictures of the sleeves on where the chain space is? I’m confused on where to start for the sleeves.
It is the chain space from Row 3. There is a photo of row four half worked and completely worked. The chain space is where the stitch markers are.
Hi! I love this pattern, and can’t wait to make it for my new granddaughter! I just have one question: I don’t know if it’s because I’m tired or if I’m just not reading the pattern right, but how does the waistband stay on the dress? Do you ‘tack’ it on, or does the fullness of the skirt keep it in place? Thanks!
When I attached the bow I sewed through the dress as well. So yes it is tacked on. I am glad you like the dress. I will be doing a fall Crochet-a-long for a Fall variation of this dress.
This i like. Thanks!
I dont understand this – I am new to all this – please help. I am making this for 0-3 months, so I guess I should read the patters as Row 1: Ch2, turn. Hdc in the next 7 ch, – but then I get confused from this point on . Especially with the different parenthesis!
(hdc, ch, hdc) in the next ch, *hdc in the next 12 (13, 14) ch, [hdc, ch, hdc] in the next ch* repeat from *to* 3 times. Hdc in the next 6(6,7) ch, slst to the first hdc. Place stitch markers in each ch space.
I am going to rewrite the first row here for just the 0-3 month size. I hope this helps.
Row 1: Ch2, turn. Hdc in the next 7 ch, [hdc, ch, hdc] in the next ch, *hdc in the next 13 ch, [hdc, ch, hdc] in the next ch* repeat from *to* a total of 3 times. Hdc in the next 6 ch, slst to the first hdc. Place stitch markers in each ch space.
If you new to reading patterns that are written for multiple sizes, then I recommend copying and pasting the pattern into a word document. Then change the color of the text for the stitch count you will be using. When making the 0-3 month size you will always use the first number in the (parenthesizes).
You can always print out your word document and highlight the stitch count for the size you are working.
I used different types of parenthesis to indicate different things the ( ) is for size adjustments, the [ ] is for a set of stitches all worked in the same stitch and * to * is for repeats in the pattern.
I hope this helps. Let me know if there is any more questions.
Thank you. Can you also please let me know. You say chain 52, and then slst in the first chain. Does that mean first chain from the hook? or the very very first chain of the entire foundation row?
Oh my goodness! That little baby is absolutely gorgeous! I love her smile! And I love this simple little dress. It’s adorable! Thank you so much for the pattern! I just found you through the Crochet Patterns Galore newsletter. I subscribed & I am looking forward to looking around on your site. Thank you again for such a sweet pattern!
You are very welcome!
Have you considered making a video tutorial? Speaking for myself sometimes it’s easier to follow a pattern if shown what needs to be done!! Thank you!
Yes I will get around to making a video tutorial for this pattern. I have a very similar pattern that does have a video tutorial the Simply Fall Baby Dress. It has a plaid skirt instead of the solid color, but you can of course keep the skirt one color. The tutorial was a Crochet A Long so it is separated into four videos. Here is the first part: https://www.windingroadcrochet.com/simply-fall-baby-dress-cal-part-1/ Here is the second part if you already understand gauge: https://www.windingroadcrochet.com/simply-fall-baby-dress-cal-part-2/
Hello, good evening, how are you? First of all I want to congratulate your work. According to I’m Brazilian, I have a website for baby clothes. I wonder if it’s okay to just get a photo of you to put on my site. At the moment I am without baby model. If I can not use everything well. Thank you for your attention =)
At the moment I do not want my daughters photos used on other sites.
Hi, is the chain 2 at the beginning of each row added as a stitch, just so I know whether he join is done on the chain 2 or the 1st made htr[hdc}. Thanks, looking forward to making this pretty dress.
No, I do not count my turning chain as a stitch, you will join to the first stitch.
I have question on row 2 you hdc 7 then hdc chain hdc then hdc do you chain after you do the 7 hdc not sure
I don’t believe so, You will work 7hdc, then [hdc, ch, hdc] in the chain space, then you will work *14 hdc, then [hdc, ch, hdc] in the chain space* repeat from *to* for a total of three times. Then work 7 Hdc in the last 7 stitches.
So basically you are creating a square, the first 7 hdc in only half of one side of the square, the 3 sets of 14 hdc is the other three sides of the square with the [hdc ch hdc] creating the corners. The last 7 hdc is just creating the second half of the square side that your first 7 hdc is on. I hope this helps.
What size dress is the baby in the pictures wearing?
She was a very small baby and is in the newborn size.
Hi! I’ve clicked on the newborn pattern link, but it brings me back to this page. Where else could I find it? Thanks so much for this pattern, it’s beautiful!
This is the correct post for the newborn pattern.
When I use H hook I can’t get 4 row = 2in.
When I use I hook I still can’t get the row measurement. What am I doing wrong?
Can you tell me what you are getting? Are you getting 3 rows = 2 in or 5 rows = 2 in with which hook? It is all about tension. Another option is to pick a larger or smaller size to work on and just check the measurements to what the final measurements are meant to be. The main measurement to worry about it the waist measurement.
I crochet tight so I tried 3 different sizes and settled on the I hook which is closest to the gauge.
Yes sometimes you may not get the gauge exact. Just go with what is closest.
Why do you join in the first HDC chain 2 and turn
With the HDC, if you do not turn your seam will start to diagonal off to the side.
When copy into Word the pictures did no t copy. Have any idea why?
You will probably need to right-click the pictures and save the picture or paste the pictures individually.
Loved the dress…making for a friends neice…I am a little confused as to how do we attach the belt and a bow…
Thanks in advance
The belt and the bow are just sewn in place. I tacked mine at the sides and under the bow.
Thanks alot
I just finished row 4 and the bodice is not one piece. When and how do we join the it together? In your picture it appears to already be joined.
You should be working in joined rounds.
At the end of each Row it says to SLST to the first HDC. That joins the rows.
Hi…could you please tell me what ply wool did you use?
Cheers
Jo
It is worsted weight, #4 weight yarn. This can also be referred to as Aran yarn or 4 ply yarn.
Love this pattern I did it and was impressed with how easy it was
I am so glad to hear that!!!
Hello,
Do you have a visual tutorial of this pattern on youtube?
Not yet. I actually have the video recorded but I haven’t had the time to edit it to share on youtube.
I just finished this dress in a rosey pink nap time yarn. It’s adorable. I did a backwards single croshet around the top instead of sleeves and I’m starting on the headband. Instead of the flower, I’m going to add the bow. Love it thank you so much. Perfect summer baby shower gift
That is wonderful!
Hi! Beautiful dress! I am left handed. Would this pattern work for me?
Yes there is nothing in the pattern that is right hand specific.