Ballerina

Ballerina Crochet Applique Pattern by Kerri's Crochet

What is Being Made

The Ballerina is a crochet applique pattern designed by independent designer Kerri's Crochet. This project creates a decorative ballerina figure that can be attached to other projects or used as a standalone embellishment. The pattern is available as a downloadable PDF with accompanying video tutorial support, making it accessible for crafters who prefer visual learning alongside written instructions.

Techniques and Construction Methods

This intermediate-level crochet project uses fundamental crochet techniques to build a three-dimensional applique figure. The pattern employs assembly methods, requiring the crocheted components to be stitched together using sewing thread and a needle to create the complete ballerina form. The use of lace-weight yarn combined with fine crochet hooks creates delicate, detailed work suitable for small decorative pieces.

Crochet Stitches Used

The Ballerina pattern incorporates a variety of essential crochet stitches to achieve its design:

• Chain stitch (ch) – the foundation stitch used to create base loops and structure
• Slip stitch (sl st) – used for joining rounds and connecting stitches without adding height
• Double crochet (dc) – a fundamental stitch providing fabric density and structure
• Half treble crochet (htr) – a medium-height stitch used for varied texture and shaping
• Treble crochet (tr) – a taller stitch creating more open, delicate fabric sections
• Double treble crochet (dtr) – the tallest stitch in this pattern, used for specific design elements requiring extra height

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The Ballerina pattern is designed with flexibility in yarn weight, allowing crafters to create three different finished sizes depending on their chosen materials. The designer used Scheepjes Maxi Sugar Rush or Maxi Sweet Treat 2 ply crochet cotton for the original pattern, selecting colors including (105) Bridal White, (222) Tulip, (162) Black Coffee, (786) Fuchsia, (110) Black, and (215) Royal Blue to create the ballerina figure with realistic details.

The pattern accommodates three yarn weight options:

• Large ballerina: Uses 8 ply yarn with a 3mm crochet hook, producing a finished size of 14cm x 24cm (5.5" x 9.5")
• Medium ballerina: Uses 4 ply crochet cotton with a 1.5mm crochet hook, producing a finished size of 9cm x 15cm (3.5" x 6")
• Small ballerina: Uses 2 ply crochet cotton with a 1mm crochet hook, producing a finished size of 7.5cm x 11.5cm (3" x 4.5")

Additional Materials Required

Beyond yarn and crochet hooks, completing the Ballerina applique requires several finishing materials: scissors for trimming yarn ends, a darning needle for weaving in loose ends, and sewing thread paired with a sewing needle for assembling the individual crocheted components into the final ballerina figure.