Free & Easy Crochet Shorts Pattern: Easy Suzette Stitch Pattern

Crochet Shorts: A Summer Staple

Crochet shorts are a must-have for warm weather! They’re comfy, stylish, and surprisingly easy to make, even if you’re a crochet beginner. This free crochet shorts pattern utilizes the beautiful Suzette Stitch to create a textured, eye-catching design. These mid rise crochet shorts are perfect for casual outings or relaxing at home. Plus, you can customize the fit and length to your liking. So grab your hook and let’s get started!

Crochet Shorts for Summer: Embrace the Suzette Stitch Trend

The Suzette Stitch is a simple yet stunning stitch pattern that adds dimension and visual interest to any project. It’s created by working a single crochet (sc) and double crochet (dc) into the same stitch, then skipping a stitch. It’s a trendy detail that will elevate your DIY crochet shorts and set them apart. Don’t worry, we’ll guide you through it step by step!

Materials You’ll Need for Your Crochet Shorts Project

• Yarn: 170 grams (300 yards) of category 4 yarn. You can choose any color and material you like, but I recommend a soft and breathable yarn for summer comfort. I personally used a beautiful light blue cotton yarn for my project.
• Hook: 5mm crochet hook.
• Scissors: For cutting your yarn.
• Stitch Markers: To mark specific stitches and help with counting.
• Tape Measure: For measuring the desired length of your crochet shorts.

Step by Step Guide: Crochet Shorts for Beginners

Get ready to create your own stylish crochet summer shorts! We’ll guide you through each step of this easy crochet shorts pattern. Remember, this pattern is written for a size small. You can adjust the size by increasing or decreasing the initial chain length for the waistband and the length of the leg sections.

1. The Waistband:

1. Foundation Chain: Start with a slip knot and create a chain that comfortably fits around your hips. Make sure the chain stitch count is a multiple of 3, plus 1.
2. Back Loop Slip Stitch Rows: Work back loop slip stitches (BLSLst) across your foundation chain for a ribbed effect. Continue these rows until your waistband reaches your desired width.
3. Seam & Edge: Fold the waistband in half and seam the ends together using an outside loop slip stitch seam. Now, single crochet along both the top and bottom edges of the waistband. Ensure it stretches comfortably around your hips.

2. Separating Pant Legs & Side Detail:

1. Chain: Insert your stitch markers for the pant legs and side details. Chain a number of stitches that equals the desired length of your shorts, making sure it’s longer than the desired inner thigh connector length.
2. Half Double Crochet: Work a half double crochet into the third chain from your hook. Continue with one half double crochet into each chain until you reach the base.
3. Back Loop Slip Stitch & Half Double Crochet: Work a back loop slip stitch into the next stitch at the base to connect your row. Flip your work and work a back loop slip stitch into each stitch across the row. Chain 2 and flip your work again. Work one half double crochet into each stitch across the row.
4. Decreasing: Now, you’ll decrease the number of stitches to shape the leg. On every third half double crochet row, work a decrease by working three half double crochets into the same stitch. Continue working back loop slip stitch rows in between the half double crochet rows.
5. Side Detail: When you reach the stitch marker that separates the side detail, work your Suzette Stitch Crochet. For each Suzette stitch, work one single crochet and one double crochet into the same stitch.
6. Connecting: When you reach the end of the side detail, connect the row to the base in the same way as before.
7. Repeat Rows: Continue working the back loop slip stitch and half double crochet rows, decreasing on every third row, until you reach the stitch marker that indicates the end of the side detail.
8. Single Crochet Row: Work a single crochet row across the last row of your Suzette stitch detail. This will ensure a smooth transition to the other side of the shorts.
9. Mirror the Process: Repeat the entire process for the other pant leg.

3. Crafting the Shorts Length:

• Inner Leg:
  • Starting from the inside edge of one pant leg, chain the desired length for your shorts, adding at least an inch for the inner thigh seam.
  • Work half double crochet (hdc) rows back and forth. Every third row, decrease three hdc stitches evenly to shape the leg. Connect each row to the waistband with slip stitches. Finally, work a row of BLSLst.
• Time for the Suzette Stitch!
  • Once you reach the side detail markers, switch to the Suzette Stitch. Remember, it’s a single crochet (sc) and double crochet (dc) in the same stitch, skip the next stitch, and repeat!
  • Work Suzette Stitch rows until you reach the opposite side detail marker. Close each row with a hdc and connect to the waistband with slip stitches.
• Outer Leg:
  • Work a single crochet row to smoothly transition back to the ribbing.
  • Mirror the inner leg construction, but instead of decreasing, increase three hdc stitches evenly every third row.

4. Connecting the Inner Thigh:

1. Find Your Seam: With the shorts inside out, try them on to find where the inner thigh seam sits most comfortably.
2. Work the Connector: Starting at your seam point, create the inner thigh connector using BLSLst and hdc rows. Continue until the connector is wide enough to comfortably reach the back panel of your shorts.
3. Seam It Up: Seam the connector to the back panel using an outside loop slip stitch seam.

5. Joining the Shorts Legs:

1. Seam Time: With the shorts still inside out, seam the inner legs together using an outside loop slip stitch seam.
2. Outer Leg Seams: Seam the outer legs, using an outside loop slip stitch seam until you reach the inner thigh connector. Then, single crochet along the top edge of the connector to secure it.

6. The Finishing Touch: Bottom Border:

1. Foundation Row: Single crochet around the entire bottom opening of the shorts, adjusting the stitch count to achieve a comfortable fit.
2. Suzette Stitch Border: Now, work several rounds of Suzette Stitch to create a lovely textured border.

7. The Drawstring:

1. Crochet a Chain: Create a long chain using a contrasting or matching yarn color. This will be your drawstring.
2. Weave It Through: Carefully weave the chain through the top row of the waistband using a tapestry needle or your crochet hook.

Mastering the Suzette Stitch for Stylish Shorts

Having trouble with the Suzette Stitch? Don’t worry! Practice makes perfect. Here’s a reminder of how to work this easy but impressive stitch:

1. Insert your hook into the designated stitch.
2. Yarn over and pull up a loop (just like a regular sc).
3. Yarn over again and pull through two loops on your hook (completing the sc).
4. Yarn over again and pull up another loop through the same stitch (as if starting a dc).
5. Yarn over and pull through two loops on your hook (completing the first part of the dc).
6. Yarn over one last time and pull through the remaining two loops on your hook (finishing the dc).
7. Skip the next stitch.
8. Repeat steps 1-7 for the desired number of stitches.

Customizing Your Crochet Shorts: Tips & Tricks

• Length: Adjust the chain length for your pant legs to create the desired length. You can make them mid rise or even longer for a more relaxed look.
• Waistband: Add an additional row or two to the waistband to create a wider band for extra comfort.
• Color: Experiment with different yarn colors to create a unique look. You can even use a variegated yarn for a fun and colorful effect.
• Drawstring: Add a drawstring to your waistband to adjust the fit. You can create a chain of 175 stitches for your drawstring and weave it through the waistband.
• Yarn Choice: Experiment with different yarn weights and fibers! Cotton blends are breathable and perfect for summer, while acrylic yarns offer vibrant colors and easy care.
• Add Pockets: Feeling adventurous? Incorporate pockets into your crochet shorts design for extra functionality and style!
• Embellishments: Make your shorts uniquely yours with fun embellishments like tassels, beads, or embroidery.

Show off Your Style: Ways to Wear Your Handmade Shorts

These crochet shorts are incredibly versatile and can be styled in countless ways. Here are a few ideas:

• Beachy Boho: Pair your shorts with a flowy top, sandals, and a straw hat for a relaxed beachy look.
• Casual Chic: Dress up your shorts with a tucked-in blouse, a belt, and heels for a stylish and sophisticated outfit.
• Festival Ready: Add a pop of color with a vibrant top, a denim jacket, and cool sneakers for a fun and festive ensemble.
• Boho Vibes: Dress up your shorts with a crochet crop top, wedges, and statement jewelry for a bohemian-inspired ensemble.

A Big Thank You!

A huge shoutout to @TCDDIY for the amazing crochet shorts tutorial that inspired this blog post! Be sure to watch the video here: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t9J43rrEzNw] for visual guidance on every step.

Share Your Creations!

We’d love to see your finished crochet shorts! Share your photos on Instagram using #[https://www.instagram.com/tubacrochet_] and on TikTok @[tiktok.com/@tubacrochet].

Let’s Chat!

What are your favorite ways to wear crochet shorts? What yarn are you excited to use for this project? Share your thoughts and questions in the comments below.

Other Crochet Projects You’ll Love

Are you looking for more crochet projects to add to your handmade wardrobe? You can also find free patterns for crochet tops, dresses, and more on the internet!

Crocheting Your Dream Summer Wardrobe

Creating your own clothing and accessories is such a rewarding experience! This easy crochet shorts pattern is just the beginning of your crochet adventure. With a little practice and a lot of creativity, you can craft a stunning summer wardrobe that reflects your unique style. So, grab your yarn, put on some good music, and let your creativity flow!

In conclusion, this crochet shorts pattern is a fantastic way to add a touch of handmade charm to your summer wardrobe. The Suzette stitch adds a unique and stylish touch, and the easy to follow instructions make this project perfect for crocheters of all skill levels. Don’t hesitate to explore your creativity and try different stitch variations and colors! Don’t forget to share your thoughts, questions, and successes in the comments below. Happy crocheting!