Crochet doilies may seem old-fashioned, but they’re making a comeback in contemporary decor and fashion. These intricate lace creations add vintage charm to just about anything they embellish.
We’ve collected the best free crochet doily patterns for modern makers, whether you’re a seasoned crocheter or a beginner looking for a unique project.
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Jump to:
- Crochet Doilies At a Glance
- Best Yarns for Doilies
- Free Crochet Doily Patterns With Written Instructions
- What Supplies Do You Need?
- Importance of Blocking
- How To Stiffen Handmade Doilies
- How to Wash Crocheted Doilies
- Quick Tips For Making Doilies
- FAQs About Crocheting Doilies
- More Patterns for Your Kitchen
- Invitation to our Facebook group
Crochet Doilies At a Glance
If you’ve been intrigued by crochet doily patterns but haven’t known where to start, we’ve got you covered. From easy doilies for beginners to large designs made with thin thread, you’ll find your next vintage-inspired project here.
These patterns use basic and special stitches suitable for all skill levels. Most doilies call for thin crochet thread to create elegant lace motifs. However, using heavier weight yarn like DK, sport, worsted, or even chunkier is possible.
Pro Tip: Substituting a thicker yarn can make any doily pattern more approachable for beginners because the yarn and larger hook are easier to hold.
Why You’ll Love These Doilies
- Step-by-step guidance: simple instructions teach you how to crochet doilies
- Patterns for any skill level: from beginner to advanced
- Unique home decor: vintage lace doilies add timeless, year-round style
Types of Doily Patterns
Crochet doilies come in various sizes, shapes, and styles. The most common shapes are round and oval, but you can also make square or rectangular doilies.Heart-shaped doilies are popular for Valentine’s Day or romantic occasions.
Some doilies are designed as foundations for larger projects, such as crocheted garments or accessories.
What are crochet doilies used for?
A large doily can be used as a table runner, rug, or to decorate a dresser top. Small doilies make beautiful crochet coasters or elegant wall art.
Doilies of all sizes can be joined to form many kinds of vintage-inspired and boho projects. You can use doilies to make bedspreads, table clothes, shirts and tops, and even to patch your jeans.
Best Yarns for Doilies
Doilies are traditionally made with lightweight and durable cotton thread designed for crochet projects. The most commonly used thread for crochet doilies is size 10, a fine weight that produces delicate and intricate lacework.
When it comes to crochet thread, the higher the number, the thinner it will be. (This is the opposite of typicalyarn, where higher numbers correlate with thicker yarns.)
Here are some favorite yarns for crocheting doilies from thinnest to thickest.
Doily Yarn | Official Size/Weight | Ideal Use |
---|---|---|
Aunt Lydia’s Classic Crochet Size 10 | Size 10 | Lace doilies |
Oh Baby Organic | Fine Sport / Category2 | Slightly chunkier, but still delicate, doilies |
24/7 Cotton DK | DK / Category 3 | Coasters, table runners, placemats |
24/7 Cotton | Light Worsted / Category 4 | Bags, clothing accents |
Mac-Re-Me Yarn | Super Bulky / Category 6 | Chunky doilies, wall hangings, rugs |
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Free Crochet Doily Patterns With Written Instructions
We have rounded up the best doily crochet patterns for all skill levels. Whether you’re a beginner or a more advanced crocheter, you’ll find a lace doily here to add quaint vintage charm to your home.
Easy Doily Patterns for Beginners
These easy doilies use basic stitches like single and double crochet. To work them up even faster, try using a thicker yarn.
www.youtube.com
Classic Crochet Doily Coaster
Create a floral doily coaster using only basic stitches. Follow along with the video tutorial for this easy doily crochet project.
www.crochetforyoublog.com
8-Petal Floral Motif
This crochet motif turned doily is a great conversation piece. This free pattern is a great way to practice basic crochet stitches. You can use it as an accent in any part of your home.
wildaboutyarn.blogspot.com
Zesty Crochet Doily for Spring
Small crochet doily patterns like this one can be completed in just an hour or two. The light colors are bright and cheerful. Make it as a coaster or a placemat to usher in Spring. The best part is that it only uses basic stitches like single, double, and treble stitches.
www.petalstopicots.com
Limegreen Floral Doily
If you know how to read crochet doily diagrams, you will love this one. Classic crochet stitches aside, you will also learn how to do picots. Use the finished project as a coaster or table accent.
rajiscrafthobby.blogspot.com
Sunny Sunflower Doily
Beginners will love this easy crochet doily. The sunflower pattern will add pops of color to any space, and it’s simple enough to make as a gift.
consciouslycrochet.com
Blooming Antique Crochet Lace Set
Create doilies in three sizes with this easy pattern. Whether you make them as gifts or keep them for yourself, these adorable blossoms are quick to work up. Choose a single color for the set, or try different shades to make them pop.
flamingotoes.com
Easy Flower Medallion
Doily crochet patterns like this take less than an hour to make. Use it as is or piece it together to create a table runner. This is also a great project if you have any yarn scraps lying around.
www.knittingpatternsdiy.com
Beautiful Lace Flower Doily
This floral pattern is made with classic crochet stitches and is the perfect portable project. Throw it in your bag to work on at the pool or on a road trip. Join a handful of these flowers for a beautiful spring or summer wall hanging.
Intermediate Doilies
These free doily crochet patterns make ideal decorative pieces for your home. The patterns are easy to read but come with a layer of difficulty. These doilies are great if you are looking for a challenging project.
scribblenstitch.com
Vintage Star Lace Doily
Classic doilies are known for their intricate patterns. The unique shape of this doily gives it a modern twist, making it a great addition to your home decor.
www.draiguna.com
Christmas Snowflake Doily
Adorned with cute puff stitches, this fancy snowflake makes a beautiful handmade ornament for any Christmas tree. Block it before hanging it to keep the edges from curling. This pattern includes a crochet doily diagram and photo tutorial.
Related: 30+ Christmas Ornament Patterns
megmadewithlove.com
Fall Pumpkin Doily
There are two parts to this project: the doily and the pumpkin. Pair them together to create rustic fall decor. This gorgeous round doily can also be used on its own year-round.
www.draiguna.com
Square Filet Crochet Bunny Doily
You’ll practice filet crochet to create this adorable bunny design. Whip up a few for Easter in any colors you like. Includes photo tutorials, stitch charts, and a bunny graph.
www.ravelry.com
Crochet Skull Doily
A unique twist on traditional paper doilies, this skull heart pattern is a sweet way to show your love for Valentine’s Day. This is a quick stashbuster project that can use yarn or thread. Video tutorial included.
www.youtube.com
Large Septagram
Spruce up your table decoration with this 7-point star doily. Skip making the usual round doily and opt for this decorative pattern instead. It has a classic vibe to it with a modern twist.
www.crochetforyoublog.com
Blooming Flowers Elegant Lace Doily
Spring is in the air with this stunning design. Add more oomph to it by using different colors for the flower patterns. It’s extra work, but the result of this lacy doily will be satisfying.
zouzoucrochet.com
Easy Lucky Clover
Upgrade your table mats with this fancy doily. This lacey home decor pattern uses 4-ply cotton thread and a 2.0mm hook.
www.ravelry.com
Four-Heart Coaster
The diameter for this four-heart coaster is about 5 inches when using a 1.75mm hook. You can make it bigger by changing your hook size or choosing a thicker yarn.
www.youtube.com
Round Heart Doily for Valentine’s Day
Show some love to your home with this classic heart design. Measuring 28 cm in diameter, you can place it under a vase or use it as a decorative piece in your home. Made with basic stitches, this is an easy crochet project you can do in an hour or two.
Related: Easy Crochet Heart Pillow
www.crochetleaf.com
Elegant Crochet Lace Doily
This pattern has a retro feel, making it a great addition to any home. It is ideal for beginners with a good grasp of the basic stitches. This pattern has 17 rounds and uses a 1.7mm crochet hook. You can even use different colors to make it a more eye-catching piece.
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Doilies for Advanced Crocheters
These vintage crochet doily patterns are more intricate than the others in this collection. Many of these beautiful lace patterns include several rounds and multiple colors.
knitterknotter.com
Radiant Bloom Mini Mandala Doily
This large crochet doily pattern uses single, double, and treble crochet. Block it and hang on your wall or use it as a placemat. The colors are refreshing to the eyes and will add character to any space.
virklust.wordpress.com
Tri-Colored Classic Doily
Due to its intricate design, this elegant lace pattern is a throwback to vintage doilies. I love how the changing colors add depth. The finished doily measures 14.5 inches after you block it.
www.ravelry.com
Textured Crochet Lace Pattern
This round doily pattern gives off a sunburst vibe. The entire project measures 13 inches once done. Special stitches include popcorn and picot.
zouzoucrochet.com
Mirror Bouquet Doily
Most say that making doilies is tough but not when you have printable patterns with written instructions like this one. The diagram included is useful for visual learners.
www.kristinescrochets.com
Vintage Table Runner
This beautiful lace project is the perfect centerpiece for a table. You can make it using your preferred crochet thread. It also comes with a video tutorial if you’re a visual learner.
crochetncreate.com
Picot Peaks
Add character to your table with this oval-shaped doily pattern. This pattern makes use of light worsted yarn. The picot peaks complete the entire pattern perfectly.
annavirkpanna.com
Star Burst Mandala Doily
Create a sacred space by crafting this geometric mandala using a 3mm hook. There is an English version of the PDF file you can download.
handmadebyraine.com
10 Thread Retro Square Coaster
Make this versatile lace doily in various sizes. You can use it as a placemat or even a table runner. Finish it off by blocking it to retain its shape for daily use.
yarnandhooks.com
Springtime Daisy Video Tutorial
Spring is in the air with this daisy doily. It’s a free pattern you can whip up in about an hour. Use it as a mat on your dinner table or as an accent piece in the living room. Its traditional style adds rustic charm to any space.
www.kristinescrochets.com
Oval Lace Table Centerpiece
The oval shape design of this piece stands out compared to the traditional round shape doilies. Customize this project by choosing your favorite colors.
www.draiguna.com
Repeating Red Heart Doily
You can use a size 10 thread of Aunt Lydia’s classic red or Lionbrand 24/7 cotton yarn for this pattern. The textured design for this doily creates a 3D effect and is a great piece to gift for Valentine’s Day.
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What Supplies Do You Need?
In addition to yarn, here are the materials needed for crocheting doilies.
- Crochet hook – Steel hooks or thread hooks work best for thinner lace thread. The smaller the hook number, the bigger the size will be.
- Tapestry needle – To weave in the ends or connect the pieces of your doily
- Stitch markers – Helpful for marking where the round ends since doily patterns require crocheting in the round
- Steamer or Iron with Steam Function – For blocking your project. A spray bottle is a good alternative.
Importance of Blocking
Blocking is used to shape and set crochet and knit projects after completion. The purpose of blocking doilies is to smooth out any wrinkles or unevenness and help them lay flat and maintain their intended shape.
You can shape your doily in two ways. The first is to roll it in a towel until it is almost dry. Place a thin towel or handkerchief on the wrong side of the crochet. Dry it using the cool setting on your iron. The second method is to stretch it out on a work surface and pin it in place.
Tools Needed for Blocking
- Blocking board
- T pins
- Steam iron or steam spray
- Rustproof pins
- Spray bottle
- towels
Blocking Methods
The blocking process typically involves dampening the doily with water or steam, gently stretching it, and pinning it into shape on a foam-blocking board. The project should dry completely before removing the pins, leaving the doily with a beautiful and crisp finish.
Related: How to make an easy DIY blocking board that’s the perfect size for small doilies and motifs.
How To Stiffen Handmade Doilies
While this step is optional, stiffening crochet doilies can add stability and durability to delicate creations. This will help ensure they retain their shape and beauty for years.
Here are several ways to make crochet lace last longer:
Hairspray:
Lightly spray your crochet project, then shape it on your work surface or wooden block. Use rust roof pins to secure your doily in place and leave it to dry completely. Your project will have a semi-hard finish to it. This is ideal when making Christmas ornaments like snowflakes.
Spray Starch
Wash your doily and gently pat it dry with a towel. Lay it on a wooden block or styrofoam, then pin it in place. Spray it using spray starch. You can even place a lace doily over a glass bowl to help it dry in a curved shape.
Liquid Starch
There are two ways to apply liquid starch to your doily. You can dilute it in water or apply it as is. Dip your lace doily in starch, then remove excess water gently. Don’t twist or wring it.Use more water if you want your crochet project to be soft.
Glue and Water
Combine equal parts water and glue in a bowl. Place your crocheted item into the solution. Remove excess water but don’t scrunch or twist it. This gives a permanent finish and is ideal for making Christmas ornaments.
Sugar and Water
This is the best option for a natural finish to your beautiful lace. Mix equal amounts water and sugar and bring them to a rapid boil. Set it aside and let it cool for a bit.
Dip your lacy doily into the solution. Remove excess water gently. You can now shape it based on your preferences.
How to Wash Crocheted Doilies
Your crocheted home decor needs cleaning occasionally. Fortunately, the process is quite simple. Here’s how.
- Gently dust off your doily using a soft-bristled brush or a feather duster. This is an important step before wet cleaning.
- Fill one bowl or pot with warm water. Add a few drops of liquid soap and stir to mix the soap with the water. Fill the second pot with just water.
- Put your crochet project into the first bowl and swish it gently. Do this until the soapy water washes all the areas of the doily. Transfer it to the second bowl to rinse it.
- Place your lace doily on a clean white towel after rinsing. Place another towel over it and press down gently to remove excess water. Once you have removed as much water as possible, leave your crocheted piece to dry.
Quick Tips For Making Doilies
Learning how to crochet a doily for the first time? Here are some helpful tips for beginners.
Start with Thicker Yarns
Using thicker yarns, like worsted-weight or even chunkier, can make it easier to see what you are doing when learning how to crochet lace.
Start with Patterns with Pictures or a Video
Look for crochet doily patterns that come with photo or video tutorials. If you are a visual learner, finding a doily crochet diagram can be an excellent way to anticipate how the rounds come together.
Don’t Forget to Use Stitch Markers
Doilies are often worked in the round. You will need to use stitch markers after each round to not forget your place in the pattern.
Block Your Project
Regardless of how small or big your crochet doily is, block it after. This will make the stitches larger and have a more professional finish.
FAQs About Crocheting Doilies
What yarns are often used when making doilies?
Mercerized cotton crochet thread is ideal for crochet doilies because of its delicate texture. However, you can use different weights and fibers depending on your preferred look.
How many hours will it take to finish a doily?
It depends on the level of detail of the pattern, the size and thickness of the yarn you are using, and your skill level. There are beginner crochet doily projects here that can be finished 30 minutes, while others can take days.
More Patterns for Your Kitchen
If you love making functional projects you can put to use around your house, you’ll love these free crochet patterns!
- Crochet Coasters: 35+ Fast and Unique Free Patterns
- Easy Crochet Potholder – Double-Thick Thermal Pattern
- Farmhouse Easy Crochet Kitchen Towel – Free Pattern
- How to Crochet Pot Scrubbers With Produce Bags
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Invitation to our Facebook group
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