How to Crochet a Smock Dress

Make crocheting a family activity to pass down with each generation.

Crocheting your own clothes allows you to customize both the fit and design. In addition, crocheting your clothing by hand can be a cheaper alternative to buying expensive store bought brands. This crochet smock dress is both figure flattering and elegant. It is suitable for the intermediate level crocheter, familiar with basic crochet stitches such as double crochet and double treble crochet. This pattern is written for a size small. However, it easily adapts for bigger or smaller sizes.

Things You'll Need

• Size G crochet hook
• 13 skeins, medium-weight yarn
• Yarn needle

Instructions

1. Chain 105 stitches. Double crochet in the second chain from the hook. Double crochet in the next chain. Skip one chain, then double crochet stitch in the next two chain stitches and repeat across the rest of the row.

2. Double treble crochet the next row. Double crochet across the following row. Continue alternating these two rows until your piece measures 2 1/2 inches. Continue working the same pattern until your piece measures 12 inches long, but bind off one stitch on each side for the next eight rows. Increase one stitch on each side for the next three rows while continuing the same pattern. Keep working until your piece measure 19 inches long.

3. Bind off two stitches at each side for the armholes. Continue alternating rows of double treble crochet and double crochet until your piece measures 23 inches long. Bind off eight stitches at each end of every row. Work until your piece measures 26 inches and cut the thread. This completes the front section of your dress.

4. Repeat Steps 1-3 for the back section of your smock dress.

5. Chain 51 stitches. Double crochet in the second chain from the hook, then double crochet in the next chain stitch. Skip one chain, double crochet in the next two chain stitches and repeat across. Continue crocheting, alternating rows between double treble crochet and double crochet, until your piece measures 4 inches long. Increase one stitch at each end for the next eight rows. Continue working until the piece measures 19 inches. Bind off one stitch on each side until your piece measures 21 1/2 inches and cut your thread. This completes one sleeve. Repeat this step for the second sleeve.

6. Sew together the sections of your smock, beginning with the shoulder seams of the front and back sections. Sew down the side seams. Attach the sleeves, completing your smock.

Tips & Warnings

• Add a ruffle edge or fringe to the bottom of your dress.

References

• Crochet Pattern Central: Women's Dresses and Skirts
• Garn Studio: Crochet Dress