Easy Crochet Doily for Beginners, No Thread Needed! FREE Crochet Pattern and Video Tutorial

Hey friends! 👋 

If you're just getting into crocheting doilies and feeling a little nervous about those tiny threads and steel hooks — you're definitely not alone! A lot of crocheters want to try lace projects, but the idea of working with size 10 thread and microscopic hooks can be super intimidating at first.

So here’s my advice: Start with cotton yarn instead of thread! 

Specifically, I recommend using a lightweight 100% mercerized cotton yarn category 2, like YarnArt Begonia, and a 3.5 mm hook. It’s much easier to see your stitches, way more forgiving, and you still get that pretty, lacy look without the frustration.

Why Cotton Yarn is Great for First Doilies:

• Easier to handle than tiny thread

• Stitches are visible, so you learn faster

• Still looks delicate and beautiful

• You can use leftover yarn from other projects

• Great for practicing before diving into “real” thread crochet

To help you get started, I designed a small beginner-friendly doily pattern that uses just a little bit of cotton yarn — perfect for trying out the feel of doily-making, without the pressure.

I had some leftover YarnArt Begonia in my stash, and it was more than enough to make one of these doilies. The pattern works up quickly (you can finish it in about an hour), and it’s a great intro to working in the round and getting comfortable with basic lace stitches.

Beginner Friendly Doily 

Olga Poltava (c) December, 2024

Abbreviations: 

ch chain

sl st slipt stitch

st stitch

sc single crochet

dc double crochet

Ch 8. Join with a slip stitch to the first chain to form a ring. 

Round 1: 3 ch (counts as first dc), 23 dc into the ring. (24 dc total including beginning ch-3).

Join with sl st in the top of beginning ch-3.

Round 2: 4 ch (counts as dc and ch 1), *dc in next dc, ch 1* around. Join with sl st in 3rd ch of beginning ch-4.

Round 3: 8 ch (counts as dc and ch 5), *kip next dc, dc in next dc, ch 5* around, but don’t make last ch 5, instead at the end, 2 ch, dc in 3rd ch of beginning ch-8 (this creates final ch-5 space and bring yarn and hook into position for the next round).

Round 4: 6 ch (counts as dc and ch 3), dc in same st, 2 ch, sc in next dc, *2 ch, (dc, 3 ch, dc) all in 3rd ch of next ch-5 loop, 2 ch, sc in next dc* around, end with 2 ch, join with sl st in 3rd ch of beginning ch-6.

Round 5 – Shell Round: sl st into next ch-3 space, 3 ch (counts as first dc), (3 dc in, 3 ch, 4 dc) all in same ch-3 space (beginning shell made),  *skip next ch-2 spaces, (4 dc, 3 ch, 4 dc) all in next ch-3 space (it’s the space between two dc)* around, join with sl st in 3rd ch of beginning ch-3.

At this point, you may fasten off for a smaller doily (approx. 5 in / 12.7 cm).

Optional Round 6 – Second Shell Round (for larger doily  approx. 6.5 in / 16.5 cm): sl st into next 3 st and into ch-3 space, 3 ch (counts as first dc), (3 dc, 3 ch, 4 dc) all in same ch-3 space (beginning shell made), *(4 dc, 3 ch, 4 dc) all in ch-3 space of next shell* around, join with sl st in 3rd ch of beginning ch-3.

Fasten off. Weave in ends using a smaller hook or a tapestry needle. Block or gently press with a warm iron to shape if desired.

Once you try this out, you might just fall in love with doily-making — and then you’ll be totally ready to take on those thread projects with confidence!

If you enjoy this pattern, you can find more in my Etsy and Ravelry shops — or support me with a small tip on Ko-fi. It helps me keep sharing free content like this 💛

Happy crocheting!

 

Rectangular Lacy Crochet Shawl – A Delicate Wrap with a Cozy Touch

 

There’s something timeless and comforting about a simple lace shawl, and I’m so excited to share this new rectangular version of a recent favorite. If you’re looking for a project that’s light, elegant, and surprisingly warm, this shawl might be the perfect fit for your hooks.

This design uses the same stitch pattern I recently used in a triangle shawl. 

But I’ve reworked it into a classic rectangle for those who prefer the clean lines and versatility of this shape. It drapes beautifully, whether worn across the shoulders, wrapped like a scarf, or layered as a cozy evening wrap.

For this project, I used Alize Angora Gold in color 28 Rose—a dusty, vintage pink with a soft, airy texture and delicate halo. This yarn is a Turkish blend of 80% acrylic and 20% wool, and it offers both lightness and warmth, which is a rare and lovely combination.

• Yarn: Alize Angora Gold

• Color: 28 Rose

• Fiber content: 80% acrylic, 20% wool

• Skein size: 100g = 601 yds (550 m)

• Amount used: 155g (just over 1.5 skeins)

• Hook: G / 4.25 mm

• Finished size: 55 x 18 inches (140 x 46 cm)

While the open lace makes this shawl look delicate, the wool content gives it real warmth. It’s ideal for transitional seasons or layering in cooler weather.

If you’d prefer a shawl that’s more breathable and summery, you might enjoy using YarnArt Flowers—a 55% cotton / 45% acrylic blend that still gives lovely stitch definition and drape but with a cooler touch. Any cotton-blend yarn with a similar weight should work well with this stitch pattern.

The written pattern for this rectangular lace shawl is available in both my shops:

• 🧺 View on Etsy

• 🧺 View on Ravelry

It includes full instructions, link to the video tutorial, and everything you need to recreate this elegant wrap.

Beginner-Friendly Crochet Triangular Scarf – One Cake Project with Caron Colorama Halo

Looking for a cozy, stylish, and satisfying one-skein project? In this crochet tutorial, I’ll show you how to make a soft and cozy triangular scarf using just one cake of Caron Colorama Halo yarn in the stunning Beet Red shade! 

This scarf is perfect for beginners—it uses simple stitches and a relaxing rhythm that’s easy to follow. Plus, it has an incredibly plush texture and elegant drape, making it look much more advanced than it actually is!

• Yarn: 1 cake of Caron Colorama Halo (5 weight / bulky)
  Color shown: Beet Red

• Hook: 5.5 mm crochet hook

• Beginner-friendly: Great for new crocheters or anyone looking for a quick and cozy make.

• Textured + lightweight: The brushed halo yarn adds beautiful depth without bulk.

• One-skein wonder: Makes the most of a single cake—no extra yarn needed!

• Stylish triangle shape: Easy to wear as a scarf, wrap, or shawl.

Watch the Full Tutorial

In the video, I walk you through the entire process—step by step—from starting the triangle to finishing off and styling your scarf. Even if you're brand new to crochet, you’ll be able to follow along confidently.

👉 Watch my tutorial on YouTube! 

Want the Written Pattern?

If you prefer to work from a written pattern or like having a printable reference, the complete pattern is available in my Etsy shop! It includes detailed row-by-row instructions and is perfect for crocheting at your own pace.

👉 Get the pattern on Etsy!

Your purchase helps support my channel and lets me keep making free video tutorials for the crochet community. Thank you! 💕

Lacy Shawl Crochet Tutorial – Try It in Cotton or Wool!

This week, I’m excited to share a beautiful lacy shawl pattern with you! While the tutorial is new, the design itself is not completely new—some of you might recognize it from a shawl I made back in 2020.

That original version was worked using one cake of YarnArt Flowers, a soft gradient yarn that’s 55% cotton and 45% acrylic. It comes in a wide variety of stunning colorways, and the one I used was color number 260. 

Each cake is 250g (or approximately 1,094 yards)—plenty for a full-sized shawl. You can still find this yarn on Amazon, and it's a great choice if you're looking for a light and airy summer wrap.

For this new tutorial, I wanted to try something different. I used a blend of acrylic and wool: Alize Angora Gold, which is 80% acrylic and 20% wool. 

I was curious to see how the same lace pattern would look and feel in a completely different yarn, and I’m really happy with the result! Honestly, I can’t even decide which one I like better—the light, summery cotton version or the warm, cozy wool blend.

Just to be clear, the pattern is exactly the same in both shawls, and it's available for purchase in my Etsy and Ravelry shops.

And if you'd like to try before you buy, you can watch the full step-by-step tutorial for free on my YouTube channel!

I want to say a huge thank you to all of you who have purchased this pattern—your support means the world to me. And a special shoutout to everyone who’s taken the time to leave a review and share a photo of their finished project!

The finished measurements of the blue version (made with Alize Angora Gold) are approximately 68 inches wide by 30 inches long. I used about 155 grams of yarn, which is just over one and a half skeins (each skein is 100g).

The 20% wool content does mean the yarn might feel a little scratchy or itchy for those sensitive to wool. However, I’ve found that washing and blocking makes a big difference. 

Keep in mind that even though this shawl has an open, lacy design, the wool content makes it quite warm—perfect for cooler days. 

If you’re looking for a truly lightweight version ideal for summer, I recommend going with YarnArt Flowers or another cotton blend.

That’s all for today’s post! I hope you enjoy the new tutorial and find inspiration in trying this pattern with different yarns. Whether you go for light and breezy or soft and cozy, I think you’ll love the result.

Happy crocheting!

Easy Crochet Baby Dress for Beginners – Free Video Tutorial

If you're looking for a sweet and simple crochet baby dress pattern that's perfect for beginners, you're in the right place! 

This charming little dress works up quickly and uses only basic crochet stitches—making it a great project for new crocheters or anyone who wants a relaxing and rewarding make.

Materials You'll Need

• Yarn: Bernat Softee Baby (a soft, lightweight acrylic yarn that’s ideal for delicate baby makes). Check it out on Amazon! 

• Hook: 3.75 mm crochet hook

• Notions: Sewing needle, scissors, and a small button 

Stitches Used

This pattern is made using only beginner-friendly stitches:

• Double Crochet (dc)

• Single Crochet (sc)

• Slip Stitch (sl st)

There’s no shaping or complex techniques, so it’s perfect for crocheters who are still getting comfortable reading patterns or following tutorials.

Step-by-Step Video Tutorial

I’ve created a full video tutorial to walk you through every step of the process—from starting the yoke to finishing the skirt. It’s perfect if you learn visually or just want to follow along with guidance.

👉 Watch the tutorial on YouTube here!

Don’t forget to subscribe to my channel so you never miss a new crochet video!

Written Pattern

If you prefer working from a written pattern (or want to support my designs), I’ve made the complete pattern  available in my Etsy shop.

It includes detailed row-by-row instructions, stitch count, and support if you ever get stuck. I’m always happy to help if you have questions!