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The idea for this easy belt came when I bought a dress for an upcoming autumn wedding. I loved the dress but it was a busy fabric from top to bottom, and I felt like it needed something to break it up a bit. I was hesitant to crochet anything because I wanted it to stay really simple and modern looking, but I decided to take on the challenge with some pretty mustard-colored yarn I had leftover from my Little Rustic Pumpkins.
I looked all over the place for a belt buckle clasp that would really up the fashion factor, and was delighted when I found this cute, modern clasp on Etsy! (Here’s my affiliate link for My Chic Mercerie on Etsy; at the time of publishing, her shop is taking a mini break, but she’ll be back soon.)
So here’s the outfit all put together. What do you think? (I think I need to remake this belt in several colors for other outfits!)
I actually bought the dress on Amazon and I LOVE it. (It has pockets!!) Here’s my affiliate link if you want to shop for one of your own. It comes in all kinds of pretty designs; I also got one with a black top and black/white plaid bottom. (I’m thinking I’ll make an aqua-colored belt for that one to give it a pop of color!)
VIDEO TUTORIAL
I’ve put together a step-by-step video tutorial for you visual learners! The instructions for the pattern are written right on the screen, so you can follow along visually while also developing your pattern-reading skills. It’s a feature I’ve gotten lots of compliments for on my videos, so it’s definitely worth the extra effort it takes to include it!
Prefer a PDF?
This pattern is also available as an ad-free, printable PDF! And if you love PDFs, you might want to check out my All Access Pass. It’s an awesome deal! (Or, scroll down for the free version!)
CROCHETED WAIST BELT
Difficulty: Easy
Finished Size: You decide!
Hook: C (2.75mm)
Yarn: #3 DK weight. How much you’ll need will totally depend on how wide and long you make your belt; but for reference, I made a 34″ x 2.75″ belt and used about 160 yards of Yarn Bee Must Be Merino (in “Gold”).
Gauge: Done in 3rd loops, 14 HDC x 9 rows = 2″ square. Gauge is not important as long as you’re measuring against your buckle closure and your body as you go.
You’ll also need: Yarn needle, belt buckle clasp (I bought mine from My Chic Mercerie on Etsy)
Terms and Abbreviations:
ST/STS (stitch/stitches)
SL ST (slip stitch)
CH (chain)
HDC (half double crochet)
3rd LOOP (work stitch into 3rd loop only – see “Special Stitches”)
Special Stitches:
3rd Loop Only
Half double crochet stitches have a 3rd loop that we utilize in this pattern. When working in turned rows, as in this pattern, the 3rd loop can be found just below the front loop on the side of the work that is facing you. When instructed to work in “3rd loop only”, insert your hook into this special loop. This creates a delicate braided look on the opposite side of the pattern.
Notes:
(1) This pattern is written in American Standard Terms.
(2) CH1s at the beginning of rows do not count as a stitch in the final stitch count.
(3) When determining the length your belt should be, keep in mind that (1) the belt will stretch quite a few inches, and (2) the buckle will account for part of the length, as well. It is best to measure your belt around the small of your waist as you go.
INSTRUCTIONS
To begin: CH to a length about 1/2″ shorter than the width of your belt buckle clasp opening. (I chained 16.)
Row 1: HDC in 2nd CH from hook and in each remaining CH.
Row 2: CH1, turn. HDC in first ST. HDC 3rd loops of all but the final ST. HDC (in top loops) of final ST.
Repeat Row 2 until belt is the length you want it to be; be sure to work an even number of rows.
Edging
Have metal clasps ready, then follow the instructions. Each bullet represents one side of the belt.
- CH1, do not turn. Working down the long edge, put 3SC (in a single spot) between each row of ribbing (see image).
- Working through belt buckle opening, SC into each ST along short side of belt.
- Working down next long edge, put 3SC (in a single spot) between each row of ribbing to the end.
- Working through 2nd belt buckle opening, making sure you attach it so that it will clasp correctly with the buckle at the other end, SC into each ST along short side of belt.
Join with a SL ST to top of first SC of edging.
Double check to ensure buckles clasp correctly, then fasten off and weave in ends.
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Done! If you’re sharing on social media, be sure to hashtag #crochetedwaistbelt and tag me @yarnandchai.design. Hope you enjoyed it!
Where can I get this yarn? I live in Florida. Is it available online? Any and all help would be greatly appreciated 😊.
This yarn is sold exclusively at Hobby Lobby stores. You can also order it online 🙂
The belt is really beautiful and makes a perfect gift!
Just saw a belt on the 2020 runway for spring/summer and it had an interesting fastener on it also. I love what you did and how it can be changed up…..
Hi Rebecca,
The belt is really nice and makes the dress look stunning!
Beautiful work as always 🙂
Lyne
Rebecca,
I love this! You are so clever. I just used the Must be Merino for the first time and it just might be my new go to yarn. It is great to work with.
Where can I get this yarn? I live in Florida. Is it available online? Any and all help would be greatly appreciated 😊.
This is gorgeous. How stretchy is it and does it keep its shape over time? I knit myself a belt once but it wasn’t elastic enough. It stretched out as I wore it so it kept growing longer. But I think it’s because I used cotton yarn. I’ve been wanting to try again so this is a perfect pattern. Thank you!
Cotton will have the least stretch and elasticity, but overall, I would make this belt knowing it’s not going to last forever. Because of the nature of wearing belts and needing to stretch them around you, eventually it’s going to start being droopy. The nice thing about this pattern is that it’s quick to make, and if your belt becomes unusable, you can just cut the yarn away from the buckles and start again with new yarn. 🙂
The Dress is gorgeous and I love the belt. I love your tutorials and I hate tutorials.
Lol! I will take that as a high compliment! 😀