How to Make a Crochet Houndstooth Baby Dress

Overview

The Houndstooth Baby Dress is a charming baby garment that combines classic design with a cozy handmade feel. The dress is made using the griddle stitch — alternating single crochet (sc) and double crochet (dc) stitches — with two contrasting yarn colors to replicate the look of woven houndstooth fabric.

The pattern is worked from the top down, starting with a yoke that’s shaped into a round bodice, followed by a skirt section. It includes a back opening and optional tie closures for easy dressing.

✂️ Materials Needed

Item	Description
Yarn	Worsted weight (#4) yarn in two colors: – Color A (light, e.g. white or pastel) – Color B (dark, e.g. black, navy, or bold contrast)
Hook	4.0 mm (G-6) crochet hook
Tapestry Needle	For weaving in ends
Scissors	Yarn scissors
Stitch Markers	Optional, but useful for marking increases and stitch counts
Measuring Tape	For sizing the dress appropriately

Sizing Notes

You can adjust this dress for sizes ranging from 0–3 months up to 12 months. Here are suggested measurements:

Size	Chest	Length
0–3 mo	14–16″	12″
6 mo	16–18″	13–14″
9–12 mo	18–19″	15–16″

To size up:

Add more chains to the foundation chain.
Increase the number of rows in the bodice and skirt.

Stitches & Abbreviations

Stitch	Abbr.	Description
Chain	ch	Yarn over, pull through loop
Slip Stitch	sl st	Insert hook, yarn over, pull through all loops
Single Crochet	sc	Insert hook, yarn over, pull up loop, yarn over, pull through two
Double Crochet	dc	Yarn over, insert hook, yarn over, pull up loop, yarn over, pull through 2, yarn over, pull through 2
Griddle Stitch	—	Alternating sc and dc across the row

Griddle Stitch: On each row, place sc into dc and dc into sc from the previous row.

Construction Overview

Yoke (Top/Bodice) – Worked flat in rows for back opening
Join in the round at the underarm
Skirt – Worked in rounds, continuing the houndstooth pattern
Edging & Neckline ties – For finishing
Optional sleeves – You can add capped or long sleeves

Instructions

Step 1: Foundation Chain & Bodice

With Color A, chain 57 (for 6-month size). You can adjust this based on chest measurement.
Turn, starting in 2nd ch from hook:
- sc in first st, dc in next, repeat across (ending with dc).
- This is Row 1.
Row 2 (with Color B): Chain 1, turn.
- If previous st was sc, do dc; if dc, do sc. Repeat to end.
- Always switch colors every row.
- Work 8 to 12 rows for the yoke, depending on size.

Step 2: Create Armholes & Join in the Round

Fold the yoke into a U-shape (with center front and two sides).
Use stitch markers to count off stitches for armholes (e.g. 8–10 stitches per armhole).
Work across front, then chain across the armhole gap, then work back stitches, chain across second gap, and join.
You’re now working in the round for the skirt!

Step 3: Skirt Section (Houndstooth in the Round)

Continue the griddle stitch, alternating sc/dc in each round, and changing colors every round.
No need to turn; just join with sl st, switch colors, ch 1, and continue.
For added fullness, you may increase by doing 2 stitches in every 10th stitch every few rows.
Continue until skirt reaches desired length (about 8–10 inches for 6–12 months).

Step 4: Bottom Edging

With last color used, add a decorative edging:
- Row: sc in dc, 3 dc in sc, repeat around.
Fasten off and weave in ends.

Step 5: Neckline & Back Closure

Neckline Tie Option:
- Join yarn at one back corner.
- Chain 30–35 for a tie, then sl st back down the chain.
- Continue with sc along neckline to opposite side, then chain 30–35 for second tie.
- Fasten off.
Alternate Option:
- Sew on a small button and create a loop closure with chains.

Optional Additions

Sleeves: Add capped or long sleeves using griddle stitch in rounds from the armhole edges.
Ruffles: Add a ruffle row at the hem by working 2 dc in every stitch for one round before edging.
Bows or Flowers: Crochet and sew on decorative elements for extra charm.

Finishing Touches

Weave in all ends securely.
Block lightly using steam or gentle pressing for the best shape.
Wash gently per yarn instructions (most acrylics are machine-washable).

Tips for Success

Use high-contrast colors to make the houndstooth pattern pop.
Keep consistent tension, especially when alternating between sc and dc.
Count stitches carefully, especially when shaping the yoke and armholes.
Use stitch markers for clarity when setting up the bodice and armholes.

❤️ Final Thoughts

The Crochet Houndstooth Baby Dress is a timeless, handmade piece that combines texture, color, and function. With its soft feel, vintage look, and adjustable fit, it makes a perfect baby shower gift, photo outfit, or holiday dress. Once you master the griddle stitch and color changes, you’ll love how quickly this dress works up.

Whether you’re a confident beginner or experienced crocheter, this project will become a favorite in your handmade collection.

Video Tutorial: