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Strappy Ballet Flats Pattern

Strappy Ballet Flats Pattern
4.5★ Rating
2-3 Hours Time Needed
1.1K Made This
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Intermediate Level

Ideal for those with basic crochet experience, featuring slightly more advanced stitches and techniques to expand your skills.

⏱️

Bite-Sized Project

Finishes in 2-4 hours—perfect for an afternoon of creative relaxation.

✨

Stylish Touch

An elegant detail to elevate any look, combining traditional techniques with contemporary design sensibilities.

About This Strappy Ballet Flats Pattern

This pattern creates a set of charming strappy ballet flats for babies in multiple sizes (Newborn, 3-6 months, 6-12 months). The design includes options for center loop, side tie, or lace straps and a tiny crocheted flower embellishment. Clear step-by-step rounds and photographs guide you through making the sole, upper, and finishing details.

Strappy Ballet Flats Pattern crochet pattern - detailed view of completed project

Complete stitch counts and variations are provided for each size, plus instructions for the spike stitch, blocking, and adding straps or ribbon. The pattern is photo-rich to help you follow placement and technique.

Why You'll Love This Strappy Ballet Flats Pattern

I absolutely love this pattern because it combines classic baby shoe style with modern, customizable details that make each pair unique. I enjoy how quickly the shoes come together — they are a satisfying afternoon make that still feels special. The multiple strap options let me get creative with ribbons, laces, or simple ties depending on the recipient. I also appreciate the clear photo guidance for tricky steps like working into previous rows for spike stitches and pulling the lace through the chain loops. Sharing this pattern means you can make thoughtful handmade gifts that look polished and hold up beautifully.

Strappy Ballet Flats Pattern step 1 - construction progress Strappy Ballet Flats Pattern step 2 - assembly progress Strappy Ballet Flats Pattern step 3 - details and accessories Strappy Ballet Flats Pattern step 4 - final assembly and finishing

Switch Things Up

I love how easy it is to customize these flats: change the yarn color for a playful contrast or use a variegated yarn for instant texture.

If you want a larger, chunkier shoe try using a bulky yarn and a larger hook for a cuddly, oversized version.

For a daintier look, switch to a lightweight yarn and D hook and reduce the chain counts slightly to maintain proportions.

I often replace the crochet strap with satin ribbon for a delicate, dressy finish—just thread the ribbon through the same loops and tie a bow.

You can add tiny buttons or embroidered initials to the toe or side for a personalized touch that makes a great baby shower gift.

Try a different flower center by using a contrasting color or add a small bead for a polished look.

I sometimes make a set in coordinating colors — one pair with laces, one with ribbon, and one with a little pompom — to give as a multi-piece gift set.

For a grippier sole, consider sewing small felt pads or a rubberized fabric to the underside after finishing for toddlers who are walking.

If you want a strapless ballet flat, omit the Round 8 loops and work a finishing round of single crochet around the edge for a clean look.

You can experiment with different strap patterns: a twisted cord, a chain of beads, or an icord-style strap will each change the final look and feel.

Common Mistakes & How to Fix Them

✗ Skipping the marked loop (marked lp) at the start of rounds will change your stitch placement; always mark the loop as instructed and join to the marked stitch to keep round starts consistent. ✗ Not working the round that is worked over the previous round (inserting the hook between sl sts and line of unworked loops) will result in missing texture; insert the hook exactly between the sl sts and unworked loops as shown in the photos. ✗ Forgetting to cut yarn and leave a loop on hook where indicated will make it difficult to weave in ends neatly; cut the yarn leaving the loop and tail long enough to weave in right away. ✗ Pulling the strap too tightly when threading through round 8 loops can distort the edge; tie loose ends and adjust tension gently so the shoe maintains its shape. ✗ Ignoring gauge can lead to shoes that are too small or large for the intended age; check 4.5 hdc per inch with an F hook and adjust your hook or yarn to match the gauge.

Strappy Ballet Flats Pattern

Create adorable hand-crocheted baby ballet flats with this clear, photo-assisted pattern. You will make sweet strappy flats with optional flower and ribbon accents — perfect for newborns through 12 months. The pattern includes multiple size variations, step-by-step rounds, and finishing instructions so you can customize each pair.

Intermediate 2-3 Hours

Materials Needed for Strappy Ballet Flats Pattern

— Main Fabric

  • 01
    Color A - Sole: approx. 30 yards worsted weight yarn
  • 02
    Color B - Upper: approx. 45 yards worsted weight yarn (for largest size shoe)
  • 03
    Flower color: approx. 6 yards fingering weight yarn
  • 04
    Ribbon option: 2 lengths of 1.5 inch ribbon, one yard each (for ribbon straps or bows)

— Tools Required

  • 01
    Crochet hook size F (3.75mm) for shoe
  • 02
    Crochet hook size D (3.25mm) for flower and lace/strap
  • 03
    Stitch markers
  • 04
    Ribbon (1.5 inch wide) for option ribbons
  • 05
    Yarn for contrasting color for upper and sole
  • 06
    Tapestry/yarn needle for weaving in ends
  • 07
    Scissors
  • 08
    Misting bottle for blocking (to shape shoes)

Progress Tracker

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— Materials :

Info :

Sole (Color A) - 30 yards worsted weight Yarn. Upper (Color B) - 45 yards worsted weight yarn for largest size shoe. Flower - 6 yards fingering weight. Hook - F (3.75mm) for shoe and D (3.25mm) for flower and lace. Stitch Markers. Ribbon option - 2 - one yard lengths of 1.5 inch ribbon. Pictured shoes made with "I love this cotton" from Hobby Lobby.

— Abbreviations :

Info :

ch Chain. lp Loop. st Stich. sk Skip. sc Single crochet. hdc Half double crochet. dc Double crochet. sl st Slip stitch. bl Back loop. 2tog Decrease.

— Gauge :

Info :

4.5 hdc to one inch using F hook. Adjust your hook or yarn to obtain gauge.

— How to read pattern :

Info :

When there is a number followed by a stitch, that stitch needs to be worked over that number of stitches. All steps are separated with a comma. Everything in Brackets [ ] should be worked together as a group and worked as many times TOTAL as the number following.

— Example :

Info :

Ch 1, 5 sc, 2 hdc in each of the next 4 stitches, 6 dc2tog, [1 sc, 1 dc] 4 times. 1. Ch 1 (does not count as stitch) 2. 1 sc in each of the first 5 stitches 3. 2 hdc in each of the next 4 stitches 4. 6 double crochet decreases 5. 1 sc in next stitch 6. 1 double crochet in next stitch 7. Repeat steps 5 and 6, 3 more times (27 total stitches-)

— Blocking :

Round 1 :

1. Mist shoes with water. 2. Shape them to desired shape by pulling out wrinkles and ripples. 3. Let dry.

— Spike Stitch :

Info :

Spike sts are worked the same as a single crochet but instead of working into the current row, you drop down and work into the previous row right below. Insert hook in the next stitch one row below the current row, yarn over, pull a loop through, yarn over and pull loop through both loops on hook.

— Flower :

Info :

Flower - tiniest (tiny) D (3.25mm) hook. 1. With flower color, make a magic ring about six inches from the end. With thumb and forefinger hold yarn where it crosses. 2. Pull a lp through the ring you just made and crochet over 2 strands. 3. [Chain 3 (4), sl st back to ring] 10 (12) times. Bind off, 4. With leaf color pull a lp through ring, ch 4 (5), sl st back to ring 2 times, bind off. 5. Pull ends to center and then pull beginning tail you started with tightly, to close ring. 6. Arrange pedals and leaves to your liking. Tie ends in knot behind flower and attach to shoe.

— Newborn :

Info :

F (3.75mm) - 3.75 inches long. Do not count the ch st as a st at the beginning of a round. Join at end of round to the top of the first st (aka marked st). Joining st (marked st) is the first st of the next round.

Round 1 :

With color A, ch 11, mark lp on hk, 2 hdc in 2nd ch from hook, 8 hdc, 4 hdc in last ch, 8 hdc down the other side of foundation ch, 2 hdc in last ch, join with sl st to marked st. 24 total sts

Round 2 :

Ch 1, mark lp on hk, skip first st, 2 sc in each of the next two sts, 8 sc, 2 sc in each of the next 4 sts, 8 sc, 2 sc in each of the last two sts, join with sl st to marked st. 32 total sts

Round 3 :

Ch 1, mark lp on hk, 2 sc in each of the first 2 sts, 8 sc, 2 hdc, 2 hdc in each of the next 8 sts, 2 hdc, 8 sc, 2 sc in each of the last 2 sts, join with sl st to marked st. Cut yarn, leaving loop on hook and tail long enough to weave in. 44 total sts

Round 4 :

With color B, yarn over and pull lp through lp on hk, mark lp on hk, 44 bl sl st, join with sl st to marked st. 44 total sts. Pictures B and C.

Round 5 :

This round is worked over the stitches of the last round. Insert hk between sl sts and line of unworked loops from previous round. Hk should easily slip through. Ch 1, mark lp on hk, 5 hdc, 1 sc, 5 sl st, 3 sc, 1 hdc, 14 dc, 1 hdc, 3 sc, 5 sl st, 1 sc, 5 hdc, join with sl st to marked st. 44 total sts

Round 6 :

Ch 2, mark lp on hk, 3 dc, 3 hdc, 5 spike st, 7 sc, 8 hdc, 7 sc, 5 spike st, 3 hdc, 3 dc, join with sl st to marked st. 44 total sts See page 1 for how to do spike st.

Round 7 :

Ch 1, mark lp on hk, skip first st, 4 hdc, 4 sc, [skip next st, 1 sl st] 4 times, 6 sc2tog, [1 sl st, sk next st] 4 times, 4 sc, 2 hdc, 2 hdc in last st, join with sl st to marked st. 30 total sts

Round 8 :

Round 8 for option 1 - Picture J. Options 2 and 3 are on page 5. Ch 1, mark lp on hk, 3 bl sc, 3 bl sl st, ch 3, 1 bl sl st back in same st, 6 bl sl st, ch 3, 1 bl sl st back in same st, 7 bl sl st, ch 3, 1 bl sl st back in same st, 6 bl sl st, ch 3, 1 bl sl st back in same st, 3 bl sl st, 2 bl sc, join with sl st to marked st, ch 4, sl st back in same st, bind off.

— Strap :

Info :

Using D size hk, make a ch that measures 36 inches long, bind off, tie loose ends in knots, and trim. Pull strap through loops made in round 8, as indicated below in picture J.

— 3-6Months :

Info :

F (3.75mm) - 4.25 inches long. Do not count the ch st as a st at the beginning of a round. Join at end of round to the top of the first st (aka marked st). Joining st (marked st) is the first st of the next round.

Round 1 :

With color A, ch 13, mark lp on hk, 2 hdc in 2nd ch from hook, 10 hdc, 4 hdc in last ch, 10 hdc down the other side of foundation ch, 2 hdc in last ch, join with sl st to marked st. 28 total sts

Round 2 :

Ch 1, mark lp on hk, skip first st, 2 sc in each of the next two sts, 7 sc, 3 hdc, 2 hdc in each of the next 4 sts, 3 hdc, 7 sc, 2 sc in each of the last two sts, join with sl st to marked st. 36 total sts

Round 3 :

Ch 1, mark lp on hk, 2 hdc in each of the first 2 sts, 12 hdc, 2 hdc in each of the next 8 sts, 12 hdc, 2 hdc in each of the last 2 sts, join with sl st to marked st. Cut yarn, leaving loop on hook and tail long enough to weave in. 48 total sts

Round 4 :

With color B, yarn over and pull lp through lp on hk, mark lp on hk, 48 bl sl st, join with sl st to marked st. 48 total sts. Pictures B and C.

Round 5 :

This round is worked over the stitches of the last round. Insert hk between sl sts and line of unworked loops from previous round. Hk should easily slip through. Ch 1, mark lp on hk, skip first st, 6 hdc, 1 sc, 6 sl st, 1 sc, 6 hdc, 1 sc, 2 sc, 2 hdc, 14 dc, 2 hdc, 2 sc, 6 sl st, 1 sc, 4 hdc, 2 hdc in last st, join with sl st to marked st. 48 total sts

Round 6 :

Ch 2, mark lp on hk, 4 dc, 3 hdc, 6 spike st, 5 sc, 12 hdc, 5 sc, 6 spike st, 3 hdc, 4 dc, join with sl st to marked st. 48 total sts. See page 1 for how to do spike st.

Round 7 :

Ch 1, mark lp on hk, skip first st, 6 hdc, 1 sc, 6 sl st, [skip next st, 1 sl st] 4 times, 8 sc, 1 hdc, 2 hdc in last st, join with sl st to marked st. 35 total sts

— 6-12 months :

Info :

F (3.75mm) - 4.75 inches long. Do not count the ch st as a st at the beginning of a round. Join at end of round to the top of the first st (aka marked st). Joining st (marked st) is the first st of the next round.

Round 1 :

With color A, ch 15, mark lp on hk, 2 hdc in 2nd ch from hook, 12 hdc, 4 hdc in last ch, 12 hdc down the other side of foundation ch, 2 hdc in last ch, join with sl st to marked st. 32 total sts

Round 2 :

Ch 1, mark lp on hk, skip first st, 2 sc in each of the next two sts, 7 sc, 5 hdc, 2 hdc in each of the next 4 sts, 5 hdc, 7 sc, 2 sc in each of the last two sts, join with sl st to marked st. 40 total sts

Round 3 :

Ch 1, mark lp on hk, 2 hdc in each of the first 2 sts, 14 hdc, 2 hdc in each of the next 8 sts, 14 hdc, 2 hdc in each of the last 2 sts, join with sl st to marked st. Cut yarn, leaving loop on hook and tail long enough to weave in. 52 total sts

Round 4 :

With color B, yarn over and pull lp through lp on hk, mark lp on hk, 52 bl sl st, join with sl st to marked st. 52 total sts.

Round 5 :

This round is worked over the stitches of the last round. Insert hk between sl sts and line of unworked loops from previous round. Hk should easily slip through. Ch 1, mark lp on hk, skip first st, 6 hdc, 1 sc, 6 sl st, 1 sc, 6 hdc, 1 sc, 7 sl st, 1 sc, 7 sc, 1 hdc, 2 hdc in last st, join with sl st to marked st. 52 total sts

Round 6 :

Ch 2, mark lp on hk, 4 dc, 3 hdc, 7 spike st, 4 sc, 3 hdc, 10 dc, 3 hdc, 4 sc, 7 spike st, 3 hdc, 4 dc, join with sl st to marked st. 52 total sts. See page 1 for how to do a spike st.

Round 7 :

Ch 1, mark lp on hk, skip first st, 4 hdc, 7 sc, [skip next st, 1 sl st] 4 times, 1 sc2tog, 5 hdc2tog, 1 sc2tog, [1 sl st, skip next st] 4 times, 7 sc, 2 hdc, 2 hdc in last st, join with sl st to marked st. 37 total sts

— Round 8 Variations & Options :

Round 8 - Newborn size Right Shoe :

Ch 1, mark lp on hk, 3 bl sc, 3 bl sl st, ch 3, 1 bl sl st back in same st, 6 bl sl st, ch 3, 1 bl sl st back in same st, 13 bl sl st, ch 3, 1 bl sl st back in same st, 3 bl sl st, 2 bl sc, join with sl st to marked st, ch 4, sl st back in same st, bind off.

Round 8 - 3-6 months size Left Shoe :

Ch 1, mark lp on hk, 4 bl sc, 3 bl sl st, ch 3, 1 bl sl st back in same st, 16 bl sl st, ch 3, 1 bl sl st back in same st, 6 bl sl st, ch 3, 1 bl sl st back in same st, 3 bl sl st, 3 bl sc, join with sl st to marked st, ch 4, sl st back in same st, bind off and weave in ends.

Round 8 - 3-6 months size Right Shoe :

Ch 1, mark lp on hk, 4 bl sc, 3 bl sl st, ch 3, 1 bl sl st back in same st, 6 bl sl st, ch 3, 1 bl sl st back in same st, 16 bl sl st, ch 3, 1 bl sl st back in same st, 3 bl sl st, 3 bl sc, join with sl st to marked st, ch 4, sl st back in same st, bind off and weave in ends.

Round 8 - 6-12 months size Left shoe :

Ch 1, mark lp on hk, 4 bl sc, 3 bl sl st, ch 3, 1 bl sl st back in same st, 17 bl sl st, ch 3, 1 bl sl st back in same st, 7 bl sl st, ch 3, 1 bl sl st back in same st, 3 bl sl st, 3 bl sc, join with sl st to marked st, ch 4, sl st back in same st, bind off.

Round 8 - 6-12 months size Right shoe :

Ch 1, mark lp on hk, 4 bl sc, 3 bl sl st, ch 3, 1 bl sl st back in same st, 7 bl sl st, ch 3, 1 bl sl st back in same st, 17 bl sl st, ch 3, 1 bl sl st back in same st, 3 bl sl st, 3 bl sc, join with sl st to marked st, ch 4, sl st back in same st, bind off.

Option #2 Side Tie - Round 8 Newborn Left Shoe :

Ch 1, mark lp on hk, 3 bl sc, 3 bl sl st, ch 3, 1 bl sl st back in same st, 13 bl sl st, ch 3, 1 bl sl st back in same st, 6 bl sl st, ch 3, 1 bl sl st back in same st, 3 bl sl st, 2 bl sc, join with sl st to marked st, ch 4, sl st back in same st, bind off.

Option #3 Center Loop - Round 8 Newborn size :

Ch 1, mark lp on hk, 3 bl sc, 3 bl sl st, ch 3, 1 bl sl st back in same st, 9 bl sl st, ch 3, 1 bl sl st back in same st, 9 bl sl st, ch 3, 1 bl sl st back in same st, 3 bl sl st, 2 bl sc, join with sl st to marked st, ch 4, sl st back in same st, bind off.

Option #3 - 3-6 months :

Ch 1, mark lp on hk, 4 bl sc, 3 bl sl st, ch 3, 1 bl sl st back in same st, 10 bl sl st, bl sl st2tog, ch 3, 1 bl sl st back in same 2 sts that you just decreased together, 10 bl sl st, ch 3, 1 bl sl st back in same st, 3 bl sl st, 3 bl sc, join with sl st to marked st, ch 4, sl st back in same st, bind off and weave in ends.

— Strap / Lace Finishing :

Info :

Using D size hk, make a chain that measures the specified length for your option (Newborn 36 inches, 3-6 months 42 inches, 6-12 months 48 inches as indicated in the pattern text), bind off, tie ends in knot and trim. Pull lace or strap through loops made in round 8 in the pattern direction shown in pictures and tie or wrap as desired.

Assembly Instructions

  • Pull lace or strap through the loops created in Round 8 and tie loose ends in knots behind the shoe or wrap and knot as shown in the photos.
  • Attach the tiny crocheted flower to the toe edge by tying the center tail through the bottom of the toe and securing with a knot, then weave in the ends.
  • Tie ribbon ends (if using ribbon option) in a decorative knot or bow and secure behind the strap area; trim excess ribbon.
  • Weave in all yarn tails neatly on the underside of the shoe to hide ends and secure with small knots where needed.
  • Block finished shoes by misting with water and shaping them to remove wrinkles, then let dry completely before final assembly.

Important Notes

  • 💡Do not count the chain stitch as a stitch at the beginning of a round; the marked stitch is the first stitch of each round.
  • 💡Use a stitch marker to mark the loop (marked lp) at the start of each round and join to that marked stitch to keep proper placement.
  • 💡When working round 5 (the round worked over the unworked loops), insert the hook between the slip stitches and the line of unworked loops so the hook will slip through easily.
  • 💡Leave a long tail when cutting yarn at the end of rounds so you have enough length to weave in securely.
  • 💡Measure straps or lace lengths before trimming to ensure you have enough for wrapping or tying as intended.

These little strappy ballet flats are a delightful handmade gift that adds instant charm to any baby outfit. Whether you use ribbon, lace, or a simple crochet strap, each pair can be customized for a unique finish. Happy stitching and enjoy creating something sweet and wearable for a special little one! 🧶 👶

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FAQs

What size will the finished piece be?

The pattern includes sizes for Newborn (approx. 3.75 in), 3-6 months (approx. 4.25 in), and 6-12 months (approx. 4.75 in) when using the recommended yarn and F hook.

Can I use different yarn weights for this pattern?

Yes; using a different yarn weight will change the final size. Use an appropriate hook size and check gauge (4.5 hdc per inch) to achieve the size you want.

Do I need prior crochet experience for this pattern?

This pattern is rated intermediate; basic knowledge of single crochet, half double crochet, double crochet, slip stitch and working in rounds is recommended.

How long does this project typically take to complete?

Most crocheters complete a single pair in about 2-3 hours depending on experience and the options chosen.

How do I attach the strap or ribbon?

Make the strap to the indicated length with a D hook, bind off, and pull it through the loops made in Round 8. Tie or wrap as shown in the photos and secure by knotting or trimming.