Cute little fringe moccasin Shoes, native American style.

These little shoes are inspired by traditional Navajo style shoes made for babies in the nineteenth century. I particularly wanted a nice fringed effect that won’t fray and is easy to do for less experienced crocheters. The method I devised is easy and beautiful when finished, so these little shoes will be a real family heirloom - something to keep as a momento of baby’s early days.

They’re also fun so make them in a beautiful color - have fun choosing your own personal combination to make shoes that are truly unique - these won’t be seen anywhere!

The fringe moccasins are very easy to make with this fully comprehensive photo tutorial (more than 50 photos!). The pattern is suited to practiced beginners who are familiar with basic crochet stitches and terminology -
chain stitch - ch.
slip stitch - sl st.
single crochet - sc.
double crochet - dc.
half-double crochet - hdc.
-you also need to know basic increases and decreases of these stitches.
AMERICAN CROCHET TERMS USED THROUGHOUT

The pattern requires some very simple cross stitching but don’t worry if you’re not experienced at sewing - the pattern guides you through the process with lots of colour photos so it’s very easy to do.
Please note: the choice of yarn is obviously very important. DO NOT USE AN ACRYLIC YARN because you’ll need to press the fringe with a steam iron - Acrylic will melt! Best yarns are cotton and wool mix - Debbie Bliss Mia is perfect. Also good is ROWAN worsted Merino wool - basically anything that is natural fibres AND has a ‘bloom’ quality. If you use the Rowan wool, you may need to use a 4mm crochet hook - OR WHATEVER HOOK YOU NEED TO ACHIEVE THE CORRECT GAUGE.

For the laces, I used a yard of soft mock suede cord, 3mm (1/8”). If you don’t have this you can always chain the laces in one of the contrast colours.
NEVER LEAVE BABIES UNATTENDED WITH CORDS OR LACES.
The cross stitching and motif are done with sportweight or fingering (UK 4ply) - you’ll need about 3 meters of each colour.

Enjoy!