I am making this pattern available for free to anyone who wants to make a pair for a baby in need or donate to a charity group. Apply code “NICU” at checkout. For all other uses, please make use of the paid option. I trust you!

If you are donating, it is your responsibility to verify with your intended recipients that crochet booties are accepted, some may have specific rules regarding sizing, materials, colors, construction, etc.

New babies deserve the softest, snuggliest booties for those teeny tiny feet. These booties are made with a fold down cuff for double the cozy! I initially designed these booties for charity donations. The braided motif reminds me of tiny hearts and symbolizes all the love encircling these babies as they come into the world.

This pattern is written using standard US terminology and abbreviations. Photo tutorials are included for the more advanced stitches and trickier pattern steps. The bootie is worked in the round from the sole up to the cuff, joining at the end of each round so that the seam goes up the back of the heel, eliminating the need for extra sewing. Make sure that you turn before starting the cuff, so that when you fold down the cuff, the right side will show correctly.

Pattern also includes notes for modifications to create a simpler bootie (no turn down cuff), as well as contrast color suggestions.

Stitches: sc, hdc, dc, braided puff stitch (tutorial included)
Techniques: working in the ‘third loop’ of hdc (tutorial included), working in the back loop only

Additional Sizing & Yardage Information:

• Preemie (30-36 weeks) = 2.5 in/6.5 cm sole length, requires approx. 30 yds/27 meters per bootie
• Baby (0-6months) = 3.75 in/9.5 cm sole length, requires approx. 60 yds/55 meters per bootie
• Older Baby (6-12 months) = 4.5 in/11.5 cm sole length, requires approx. 80 yds/73 meters per bootie

This pattern DOES NOT include the matching hat, but you can find it here: braided baby hat