Crochet is far from a new process. Some of the earliest patterns date back to the 1800s. Both crochet and knitting have enjoyed a huge renaissance in the past few years bringing new ideas and a wonderful array of yarns to work with.
Gone are goofy, floppy, hole-filled, under-stuffed, toys. Crocheters are utilizing Amigurumi and other modern techniques to create countless new, clever and whimsical creatures. Granny squares and doilies never looked so good and crochet clothing has gone from old-fashioned cardigans to high fashion and even the runways of the finest fashion houses.
I’ve been crocheting since my grandmother taught me some 40 years ago. While I’m a mixed media artist, who enjoys dabbling in all sorts of materials and techniques, crochet is a bit of my first love. Not surprisingly, The Crafty Tipster does have more crochet-related content.
Please take a look around and try some of the great vintage and modern free crochet patterns listed here. And as always we look forward to seeing what you do with these patterns and would love to be able to share your favorite patterns as well.
This pretty crochet jacket pattern is over 90 years old, yet would be a fashionable addition to any modern wardrobe. This free crochet apparel pattern is made with "fourfold Germantown" yarn, best we can tell that is roughly equivalent to the typical four-ply acrylic yarns.
We haven't tried this vintage pattern yet but have reviewed the pattern and it looks fairly straightforward. The pattern calls for Shetland Floss. Another site estimates that this is roughly equivalent to light fingerling yarn. Sorry, you'll be a bit on your own on this one to determine the appropriate yarn/needle/finished size ratios. But hey, it's a really cute little crochet hat and the pattern's free.
Dr. Who fans out there should recognize this scarf.
The Scrappy Scarf is the perfect way to thrill your favorite Dr. Who fan and it also makes for a great stashbuster project.
Olive Squares is another vintage crochet doily pattern I've found. The original pattern designer suggests using this pattern to make a counterpane. To me, the pattern is interesting enough to be made into a doily or pillow cover.
Ruffled Doily
The Flower Stand doily is one of several patterns from The Lady's Album of Fancy Work. This pattern, along with a number of others was first published in 1850.
The Mat for Flower Vase is one of several patterns from The Lady's Album of Fancy Work. This vintage crochet doily pattern, along with a number of others was first published in 1850.
The D'Oyley is one of several vintage crochet doily patterns from The Lady's Album of Fancy Work. This pattern, along with a number of others was first published in 1850.
When designing this easy crochet doily pattern, The Crafty Tipster wanted to keep the counting and fussy stitching to a minimum to make it easier for first-time doily makers and a quickie pattern for more experienced hookers.
A free vintage crochet pattern to make a crochet basket filled with crochet flowers and leaves.
Crochet Santa
Meet our first Amigurumi-inspired Santa Claus.
The pattern and instructions are a little long, but are fairly easy. Even the beginner should be able to make this crochet Santa. An alternate placement of the eyes is included.