Need a cute and quick summer crochet project? These free patterns for baby and toddler dresses are perfect for warm days and little adventures! Whether you’re dressing up your own child or making a gift, these lightweight, breathable designs are just the thing for summer.
Most of these dresses are made with cotton or cotton-blend yarns to keep kids cool and comfy. They’re ideal for beginners too – no complex shaping, just simple stitches and lots of charm! Many of the patterns featured here come in a wide range of sizes, so there’s something here for every little fashionista.
Why make a crochet dress for summer?
Baby dresses are such a joy to make – especially in the warmer months! They’re usually small, lightweight, and don’t take much time or yarn. Most summer baby dresses use soft cotton or cotton-blend yarns, which feel great on delicate skin and help keep babies cool.
You can make one in a weekend and gift it for a baby shower, birthday, or even just because. Handmade baby clothes are always a hit!
Best yarn for baby summer dresses
Look for yarns that are:
- Soft and breathable (cotton, bamboo, or blends)
- Machine washable (because, babies!)
- DK or lightweight yarn (great drape without overheating)
Choose fun summer colors – pastels, brights, or even rainbow mixes – to give the dress a cheerful vibe.
Carolina Sundress by Theresa Knapp
This sweet sundress features a ripple-effect skirt and a beautifully textured bodice with wide straps. Use two DK yarn colors to give it a fun summer twist! Add a cute flower applique to finish off this comfy and classic summer outfit. Available in 7 sizes from newborn to 4T.
Row of Tulips Dress by Winding Road Crochet
Free pattern on Winding Road Crochet
Flared, breezy, and oh-so-pretty! This tulip-inspired dress uses DK yarn and has a cute trapeze bodice with buttoned straps. It’s perfect for sunny days and can even be turned into a crop top or summer tank with the included instructions. Sizes from 12 months to size 8.
Delightful Days Dress by Maisie and Ruth
Free pattern on Maisie and Ruth
Bright granny squares, bow tie shoulder straps, and a flowy shape make this the ultimate summer play dress. It’s light, airy, and fits kids from 0 to 10 years. Choose fun colors and soft yarn for a summer-ready dress kids will love wearing. It includes video tutorial!
Baby Summer Dress by Frisian Knitting Tutorials
Free video tutorial on YouTube
This simple round yoke dress is perfect for beginners. Made with Aran yarn and a 4.5 mm hook, it has a gathered skirt and comfy fit. The easy-to-follow video walks you through each step – great for a last-minute summer baby gift! Size 0-6 months.
Crochet Baby Dress (3 Months) by Sanda Crochet & Craft
Free video tutorial on YouTube
Lightweight and lacy, this round yoke dress is a warm-weather favorite. Add colorful stripes and finish it with a scalloped hem for a sweet summer vibe. The video makes it super beginner-friendly.
Cotton Candy Dress by Crochet Dreamz
Free pattern on Crochet Dreamz
This easy, airy design is made for summer. The bodice is a simple rectangle and the skirt flares out for a comfy, breezy fit. Made with DK yarn and a larger hook for softness and drape – perfect for keeping little ones cool! Available in 6 sizes for baby and toddlers.
Rainbow Dress by Emily Keenan
Bright, bold, and fun! This seamless A-line dress is worked in one piece with six colors for a cheery rainbow look. Aran yarn and a 4.5 mm hook help you finish this colorful piece in no time – ideal for summer projects. Sizes available 2-3 years, 3-5 years, and 6-8 years.
Falling Fans Dress by The Lavender Chair
Free pattern on The Lavender Chair
Lacy and lightweight, this toddler dress has a breezy feel perfect for hot days. Made with worsted weight cotton, it features a simple bodice with shoulder straps and a lacy skirt that looks beautiful and feels cool. This dress pattern fits most toddlers size 2T-3T.
Summer Diamonds Toddler Dress by One Dog Woof
This tunic-style dress is worked sideways with a clever construction and cute diamond details. It’s light, roomy, and designed for sizes 2T–3T. Pair it with sandals and you’ve got an instant summer outfit!
Tulip Chevrons Baby Dress by Crochet Kim
Made top-down in fingering yarn, this lacy chevron dress is sweet and delicate – just right for a summer baby. It’s seamless and grows easily with a quick yarn or hook size change. Works up quickly, and can even double as a toddler top!
Ready to crochet a summer baby dress?
Summer’s the perfect time for handmade cuteness – and these baby and toddler dresses definitely deliver! Whether you go for something lacy and delicate or bold and colorful, these free crochet patterns are fun to make and even more fun to wear. So grab your favorite yarn, find a shady spot, and enjoy making something beautiful for the little ones in your life.