Learn how to crochet shorts with this FREE, easy, beginner pattern! DIY your perfect summer beach shorts or mini shorts with a simple step-by-step tutorial.
Looking for a fun and breezy crochet project that screams summer? Look no further because today I have the perfect crochet shorts pattern for you! Whether you’re heading to the beach, strolling the boardwalk, or just want a comfy pair of shorts, these crocheted beauties are sure to become a staple. Best of all? This pattern is simple enough for beginners while still offering a touch of trendy style.
Let’s get started!
Skill Level: Beginner
Uses: Versatile and perfect for beach days, festivals, casual outings, or just relaxing at home.
Materials
- Yarn: Any worsted weight (size 3) acrylic yarn. Consider the climate you’ll be wearing them in – lighter yarn will be cooler for hot summer days!
- Hook: 3.5 mm crochet hook
- Other: Scissors, tape measure, stitch markers (optional)
Gauge:
- Gauge swatch is not essential for this pattern as slight variations won’t significantly impact the fit. However, if you’d like to check gauge for yarn substitution or personal preference, you can create a 4″ x 4″ swatch using the half double crochet (hdc) stitch pattern. Adjust your hook size if needed to achieve the desired gauge.
Crochet Terms & Techniques
Let’s quickly review the stitches you’ll need to know. If you’re new to crochet, don’t worry – these basics are very beginner-friendly!
- ch (Chain Stitch): Forms the foundation of most crochet projects.
- sl st (Slip Stitch): Used for joining, securing, and moving between stitches.
- dc (Double Crochet): Creates height and is used in many patterns.
- hdc (Half Double Crochet): Shorter than a dc, perfect for building fabric.
- FPdc (Front Post Double Crochet): Adds texture by working around the post of a stitch.
- BPdc (Back Post Double Crochet): Similar to FPdc, working behind the post.
- Shell Stitch: A decorative cluster of double crochets creating a pretty edging.
Helpful Tips
- Stitch Markers: While optional, these are handy for marking the beginning/end of rows or important sections.
- Tension: Keep your tension even for a neat finish. Don’t crochet too tightly or loosely.
- YouTube Tutorial: If you’re a visual learner, check out the fantastic tutorial on the YouTube channel Accrochets (https://www.youtube.com/@accrochets). Seeing the pattern worked up is super helpful!
Written Pattern
Ready to crochet? Here’s a breakdown of the steps to make your own pair of comfy and stylish crochet shorts. Note that you can easily modify the length of these shorts with additional or fewer rows.
Waistband
- Foundation Chain: Chain enough stitches to comfortably fit around your hips, plus a few extra stitches to join. A good starting point is typically around 60-80 chains for small/medium sizes, but adjust as needed.
- Row 1: dc in each chain across. Join with a sl st to the first dc.
- Row 2: ch 3 (counts as a dc), FPdc in the first st, BPdc, FPdc across. Repeat from * to end, sl st to top of ch 3.
- Rows 3+: Repeat Round 2 until the waistband reaches your desired width (typically 2-3 inches).
Body:
- Join: sl st to the top of any stitch in the last round of the waistband.
- Round 1: ch 2 (counts as a hdc), hdc in each stitch across the entire round. Join with a sl st to the top of the ch 2.
- Round 2: ch 2, hdc in the first st, dc in the next st, hdc in the next st across the entire round. Join with a sl st to the top of the ch 2.
- Tip: This alternating dc and hdc row creates a subtle ribbed texture. You can omit the dc row for a smoother fabric, or experiment with different stitch combinations for a unique look.
Body Shaping (Optional):
- For a more contoured fit, you can introduce shaping at the hips or thighs. Here are two common approaches:
- Hip Shaping: Starting after the waistband, gradually decrease 1-2 stitches per round at evenly spaced intervals (e.g., every 4-6 stitches) until you reach your desired hip circumference. Then, continue working straight until reaching the leg hole shaping.
- Thigh Shaping: After the body section reaches a certain length, you can start decreasing stitches on the sides of each leg to create a tapered effect. Here’s an example method:
- Row 1: Work in pattern until the last 4-5 stitches on each side. Skip the next stitch, work in pattern to the end of the row.
- Row 2: Work in pattern across.
- Repeat Rows 1 and 2, gradually decreasing one stitch on each side every few rows until reaching the desired leg opening size.
- Note: Adjust the number of skipped
Leg Holes
- Divide and Conquer: Find the center of your piece and split the stitches in half for your leg holes.
- Crotch Chain: Chain 20 (or adjust for your desired fit). Join the chain to the center of your work.
- Leg Hole 1: Ch 2, hdc across the chain and continue in hdc around half of your piece for several rows.
- Leg Hole 2: Repeat the same process on the other side.
Edging
- Shell Stitch Time: Follow a shell stitch pattern along the bottom of your shorts (check out Accrochets’ tutorial for a visual guide!)
Drawstring
- Chain: Chain a loooong string – enough to fit around your waist and tie comfortably.
- Weave: Starting at the top of your waistband, weave this chain in and out through the front and back post stitches.
Finishing Touches
Weave in all loose ends, and there you have it – your very own handmade crochet shorts!
Customization is Key
The beauty of this pattern is how easy it is to customize. Play around with:
- Colors: Choose a single color, alternate stripes, or go for an eye-catching ombre effect!
- Length: Adjust the number of body rows to make them short shorts or longer.
- Details: Add some beads or small charms to your drawstring for extra flair.
Community & Inspiration
Don’t forget to share your creations on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/tubacrochet_/) and TikTok (tiktok.com/@tubacrochet [invalid URL removed]), and be sure to check the YouTube tutorial (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DtFulPsBeU4) from Accrochets for extra guidance! I’d love to see what you come up with, and feel free to ask any questions in the comments below.
Happy crocheting!
