Since tackling my very first baby bootie, I’ve been working on a steady upward climb leading toward the larger sizes.
However, coming up with a uniform pattern for larger sizes is REALLY tricky when you only have one size (your own) to draw from! I’m the only lady in my house…
So, what can you do when you need to come up with a pattern that’s tested and works and is simple enough to follow? You look through the free offerings online, of course. There are literally hundreds–if not thousands, of free pickings to search through and my philosophy when it comes to things like this is, why reinvent the wheel?
So, in order to simplify things for all of us, I went on a hunt for the simplest pattern I could find to build on–and that was provided by Bernat.
Their pattern for Spa Slippers is the perfect building block to transform into ballet slippers! However, beware that there is a TON of counting involved. Sadly, counting is something that just comes with the territory when you scale things up. Make sure you carve out a block of time to work these when you won’t be distracted by the phone, the kids, the door, or anything else that will run you off the rails.
Follow the pattern exactly for the SOLE. The pattern is written to fit ladies’ shoe sizes S (5-6), M (7-8), and L (9-10).
Important Pattern Notes: In the pattern you will see an odd abbreviation: Rem loop. It translates to Remaining loop.
Bernat Spa Slippers
MEASUREMENTS – To fit Ladies’ shoe sizes S (5-6), M (7-8) and L (9-10).
SOLE (make 2) –
With MC, ch 26 (M28-L30).
Rnd 1: (RS). 1 dc in 4th ch from hook. 1 dc in each of next 21 (M23-L25) ch. 5 dc in
last ch. Working into rem loop on opposite side of foundation ch, 1 dc in each
of next 21 (23-25) ch. 3 dc in last ch. Join with sl st in top of ch 3. 52 (M56-
L60) dc.
Rnd 2: Ch 3. 1 dc in same sp as last sl st. 2 dc in next dc. 1 dc in each of next 21
(M23-L25) dc. 2 dc in each of next 5 dc. 1 dc in each of next 21 (23-25) dc. 2
dc in each of last 3 dc. Join with sl st in top of ch 3.
Rnd 3: Ch 3. 1 dc in same sp as last sl st. 2 dc in each of next 3 dc. 1 dc in each of
next 4 dc. 1 hdc in each of next 4 dc. 1 sc in each of next 9 (M11-L13) dc. 1
hdc in each of next 4 dc. 2 hdc in each of next 10 dc (heel). 1 hdc in each of
next 4 dc. 1 sc in each of next 9 (M11-L13) dc. 1 hdc in each of next 4 dc. 1
dc in each of next 4 dc. 2 dc in each of next 6 dc. Join with sl st in top of ch 3.
Fasten off (toe).
When you have finished, you should have a basic slipper sole like this one.
Before moving on, double check that your sole is the correct size. Even though I followed the Bernat pattern exactly, I still wound up with a size too small. I think that has everything to do with how tightly I crochet and the fact that the original pattern does not have any gauge information listed.
My suggestion is to take how you crochet into consideration before starting and size your hook up to an H or even an I if you crochet tightly like me!
Now, onward to the toe top. As of this writing, the ballet slipper pattern is yet untested for the size S (5-6) and L (9-10). As I work them out and make a pair of each, I’ll update the blog to reflect what I’ve found and to correct the pattern where needed.
My head tells me that this pattern will work universally with all sizes but until I test it myself (or get feedback from anyone out there willing to test and report back), I can’t give you a guarantee.
Ladies’ Ballet Sippers
Materials Needed:
- Size G (4 mm) crochet hook–or hook needed to get correct size
- Any color medium worsted weight yarn (I use Red Heart Super Saver.)
- Tapestry needle
- Two complete soles from the Bernat Spa Slipper Pattern
Stitches used:
- sl st: slip stitch
- sc: single crochet
- dc: double crochet
Decrease stitches used:
- dc2tog: Yarn over, insert the hook into the first stitch, yarn over and draw up a loop, yarn over and draw through 2 loops on the hook, repeat from * for next stitch, yarn over and draw through all remaining loops on hook.
- sc2tog: Insert the hook into the first stitch, yarn over and draw up a loop, insert the hook into the next stitch, yarn over and draw up a loop, yarn over and draw through all remaining loops on hook.
Ballet Slipper Toe Top
Attach your yarn with a sl st in the back heel of your sole. Ch 1.
Rnd 1: Working in Back Loops only for this rnd, sc in each st around, sl st in top of beginning ch 1.
Rnd 2: Ch 2, 1 dc in each st around, sl st in the top of beginning ch 2.
Rnd 3: Ch 2, dc in the next 5 stitches, **Pull your loop out and find your center line at the toe. (To find that center line, you will follow the line of your foundation chain up. Your line should fall naturally between the center two stitches that mark the exact middle of your slipper.) Once you find your center line, you will want to count 20 stitches from the center of your toe top toward the side you are working. Once you find that 20th stitch, place a stitch marker through it.** 1 dc in each st to the marker, dc2tog 20 times, 1 dc in each st around to the beginning ch 2, sl st in top of beginning ch 2.
Rnd 4: Ch 2, dc in the next 5 stitches, **Repeat exactly what you did in Rnd 3 only this time you will find 10 STITCHES from the center of your toe top toward the side you are working. Once you find that 10th stitch, place a stitch marker through it.** 1 dc in each st to the marker, dc2tog 10 times, 1 dc in each st around to the beginning ch 2, sl st in top of beginning ch 2.
Rnd 5: Ch 2, dc in the next 5 stitches, **Repeat exactly what you did in Rnds 3 and 4 only this time you will find 6 STITCHES from the center of your toe top toward the side you are working. Once you find that 6th stitch, place a stitch marker through it.** 1 dc in each st to the marker, dc2tog 6 times, 1 dc in each st around to the beginning ch 2, sl st in top of beginning ch 2.
Rnd 6: ch 1, sc in the next 5 stitches, **Repeat what you’ve already done in your last three Rnds finding the 3 STITCHES from the center of your toe top toward the side you are working. Once you find that 3rd stitch, place a stitch marker through it.** 1 sc in each st to the marker, sc2tog 3 times, 1 sc in each st around to the beginning ch 1, sl st in top of beginning ch 1.
Finish off and weave in your ends.
When you’ve completed your project, you should have an adorable ballet slipper! Add a strap to turn them into cute Mary Jane’s. The possibilities are endless!
If you make a pair and want to contribute to pattern corrections–or just show off your handy work, come visit us at HodgePodge on facebook.
Tagged: Adult Slippers, ballet slippers, Bernat, Booties and Slipper Patterns, Crochet, Crochet Fashions, HodgePodge Crochet, Shop HodgePodge Crochet
I love this pattern, but I truly need someone to just explain ” pull your loop out ” in row 3 on. I’m probably overthinking this step, but this is really throwing me for a loop…
LikeLike
Pulling your loop out means that you pull the working loop so that you make a larger loop that won’t pull back through your work as you proceed to the next step of the pattern (since you have to remove your hook and it won’t be there to hang onto your yarn.)
LikeLike
Thank you so much for reply. I understand it much better now.
LikeLike
I love the pattern just having trouble understanding row three please help
LikeLike
I followed the pattern for the medium and it’s awesome! My only issue was the heel sliding off, but I had already tired off and cut the yarn. I made a chain and wove it in and out of the tops of the few stitches around the heel, pulled it tight like a drawstring, and tied a cute little bow! Love it!!!
LikeLike
I made a pair for myself the other day. They are so comfortable! A couple of friends wants to buy some from me, as they do not crochet, what is your policy on patterns used to sell items. Thank you.
LikeLike
I’m thrilled that they’re comfy and that they’ve caught the attention of your friends who now covet a pair of their own! I encourage you to make and sell as many as you can! The only thing I ask that you not resell is the actual pattern. Other than that, I wish you the best of luck! 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Love the slippers. I hope to try the pattern soon! Thanks for sharing.
LikeLike
[…] sock, I was keen on crocheting something for my feet. And I came across this wonderful pattern from Hodgepodgecrochet. The first pattern I ever I read through and tried to understand, and it worked well. So […]
LikeLike
Hi… I just finished these slippers (L) and I LOVE them… I did however change something, on Rnd 5, I instead ch 1, sc in next st, sc2tog over next 2 st repeat * once. Sc in next 16 sts or up to 2nd st b4 1st dc2tog, then over next 11 sts, repeat *. Sc in next 16 sts, repeat * twice, sc in each st to beg ch 2. Finish off.. I didn’t need to do Rnd 6. BUT I LOVE LOVE LOVE THEM!!!!
LikeLike
Revised a little: I actually did a Rnd 6;Ch 1, repeat * 3X but slst instead of sc b4 sc2tog then slst in each st around til you reach 7th st from end of rnd, Then, repeat * til reach ch1 of end rnd,, Join and FINISH OFF!!!!
LikeLike
Hi… I just finished these slippers (L) and I LOVE them… I did however change something, on Rnd 5, I instead ch 1, sc in next st, sc2tog over next 2 st repeat * once. Sc in next 16 sts or up to 2nd st b4 1st dc2tog, then over next 11 sts, repeat *. Sc in next 16 sts, repeat * twice, sc in each st to beg ch 2. Rnd 6;Ch 1, repeat * 3X but slst instead of sc b4 sc2tog then slst in each st around til you reach 7th st from end of rnd, Then, repeat * til reach ch1 of end rnd,, Join and FINISH OFF!!!!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you – This is a great pattern – very easy – works up quick.I found the ankle a bit loose for me so after the 5 dc in each round of decreases – I did one dc decrease and repeated at end of row, decreasing on the 6th & 7th stitches from end of row, and ending with 5 dc. The ankle felt great then.
LikeLike
Hello – regarding your sizing theory – I just made the slippers in small and medium sizes and both pairs worked up fine in the correct size. I was using Deborah Norville yarn – similar to Caron Simply soft- and had to use a size 5 mm hook.
LikeLike
What size hook do you need to do the soles? I see the hook for the slipper part but none for the sole
LikeLike
Hi Ashley,
The same hook is used throughout the project 🙂 Have fun!
LikeLike
do you have a printed version. would love to print it off
LikeLike
Do you need to decrease the heal? the heal on mine is jutting out the back
LikeLike
Generally, when your heel starts to widen you aren’t getting that join right and are instead adding in a stitch every round. Make sure you get the last stitch and the next slip stitch in the right spot (use a stitch marker to let you know where to stop crocheting) in order to make sure you don’t accidentally increase your slipper. 🙂
LikeLike
Love this pattern but II was unable to find the Pattern for the sole. Your links do not work. Please help. My email is Meleann1967@gmail.com. Thank you for your time.
LikeLike
Oh no!! Maybe they moved it?? I’ll peek now 🙂
LikeLike
I think the reason for making four soles, is to give it more cushion and the slipper will last longer, due to the wear and tear of walking on them.
LikeLike
I thank you very much for this pattern. I made my 2 year old a pair and then I made a pair (medium) for an adult! The adult pair is all white and beautiful! I added a flower to the top for sass!
LikeLike
Made this for 7-8 on a 8.5 foot. I dc2tog every 2 stitches in the beginning and the end of every row. I moved the marker up I didn’t need to count them that way, then figured out where it ended up on the other side I needed to count on the first row of decreases but after I didn’t need to.
I am currently making it for a 11 on a 9-10 and I only dc2tog last row 2 times on each side (beg and end). Last row is dc so the fit the bigger foot.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I am going to try to add 2 decreases on each side of the toe top. That way it doesn’t look goofy, I made the same amount of decreases in the back and it looks weird. I also just came up with an idea I may do a decrease at the beginning once then at the toe top once, then repeat on other side, that would look more portioned, I will try that. Just so ideas some others can try.
LikeLike
When I made these they wanted to slip off of my feet…so I took out two rows and dc2tog (at the heel) it made it much better. 🙂
What I did was on round five I chained 2 then I dc2tog two times…..then I dc2tog just before the join.
Then on round 6 I did the same Now it doesn’t slip 🙂
LikeLike
on the adult slippers do u ch how many the size of slipper u want?will it curl up on both ends or will it flaten out please set me know.
LikeLiked by 1 person
love this pattern going to try and make some.my mother inlaw was helping me and said for the sole u chain how long u want them to be.and then sc2tog,then dc2tog for ur sole and then just crochet around to make ur sole.is that right please let me know i love trying new patterns
LikeLike
Hi Charlotte!, No that wouldn’t be right. You want the chain to actually be smaller than your foot because you are going to be adding rows. I just made the soles last night and went alot smaller because you end up adding like 3 or 4 rounds or so to them and tat adds length. Hope that helps and Happ crocheting
LikeLiked by 1 person
just a quick qestion do u double around or d2 tog?
LikeLike
I didnt follow the pattern really to be honest. I followed the firt two rows so single crochet then doubles then on the third row i found the center of the toe like it stated but went 12 on each side and d2g those and doubles for the stitches before and after. I am going to put a strap on mine across the toe so I just needed a basic pattern to go off of. I hope that helps and isnt too confusing.
LikeLike
how many do i chain for large pair?and then u would crochet around even in ur ch sts all the way around to make an oval shape?and do u join ur rounds?cause when i do the sole curls.
LikeLike
I chained 28 using an H8 hook holding 2 strands of yarn and I wear a womens size 12. If you find it to be too large rip it out and start over would be my best advice. I don’t cut the yarn and finish off until I know for a fact that I have the size I want/need. Crochet aroud evenly until you get to the edges/rounds, add 2 DC there so it doesn’t curl. You can contact me on fb if you have an account if you want. http://www.facebook.com/#!/jessica.ingram.585
LikeLike
Pattern worked up great, Already been asked to make more for family! Thankyou
LikeLike
This is the style I am looking for what I need is a Victorian lace look pattern do you know of one
LikeLike
Reblogged this on One Kuhl Mom.
LikeLike
I’m not understanding how to do this: Pull your loop out and find your center line at the toe. (To find that center line, you will follow the line of your foundation chain up. Your line should fall naturally between the center two stitches that mark the exact middle of your slipper.) Once you find your center line, you will want to count 20 stitches from the center of your toe top toward the side you are working. Once you find that 20th stitch, place a stitch marker through it.**
LikeLike
Take a peek at the previous blog posts for slippers and you might have a clearer understanding 🙂 https://hodgepodgecrochet.wordpress.com/2012/02/23/simple-toddler-slippers/
LikeLike
Thank you sweetie, its different from the one I have. 🙂
LikeLike
❤ I'm glad you were able to figure them out. I work mine sort of strange because that's the way they make the most sense in my head–and I never get them wrong that way 🙂
LikeLike
Oh the one you gave me is for toddlers i need it for adults. I figured it out ty sweetie
LikeLike
I’ve been looking everywhere for a good slipper pattern, this one is great, thanks for sharing! I also crochet really tight, but I used an I and it’s the right size, only at the heel mine was really loose, so I just did 2 decreases at the heel on each round and they’re much better.
Crafty Court
LikeLike
[…] https://hodgepodgecrochet.wordpress.com/2012/03/25/ladies-ballet-slippers/ […]
LikeLike
I agree, the sizing is small. I wear an 8-1/2. I made the size 9-10 and they fit me perfectly. The sizing may be for a bulkier yarn.
Also, I added a row of single crochet at the end for a more finished look – in a contrasting color. Thanks for the pattern!!
LikeLike
Never failing to amaze me with your talents! 😀 Keep em coming! LOL
LikeLike
These are so pretty! Have you got any ideas for how to put a more solid bottom on them?
LikeLike
If you’d like to make them more sturdy you can do a couple of things.
First, you can double the sole. Instead of making 2 soles (one for each foot), make 4. Sew them together and you will have a nice substantial sole.
The other thing you could do is choose a much sturdier yarn before you begin. Keep in mind that if you choose a yarn that is thicker than a medium it will throw the pattern off so your results will vary.
The last thing that comes to mind is to start with a leather sole bottom. There are some places that sell things like that specifically designed for crocheters. The added benefit is that they are slip proof AND you know you have a size that’s going to fit!
Best of luck to you!
LikeLike
You can take the bottoms of old flip flops and punch evenly spaced holes around the edges to join the top onto the sole.
LikeLike
I’m am making these but I want to use a suede sole. Do I just start from the slipper part and pretend that the suede sole is the crochet one from your pattern? Finding info on using premade soles is a nightmare!
LikeLike
Premade soles can be tough to work with because they have already given you a set number to crochet around. You can try it that way and see how it goes! Most of the times, I learn by trial and error, lol.
LikeLike