How to Crochet a Lace Belt to Tie on Jeans
Crochet a delicate lace belt that ties at the waist and adds a handmade touch to your favorite jeans.
A crochet lace belt is just a long strip of lace with tails long enough to tie in a bow.
A crochet lace belt is just a long strip of lace with tails long enough to tie in a bow. You make it flat, then wrap it around your waist and tie it over your jeans. No buttons, no buckles, no sewing.
The one that caught my eye on Pinterest is a funky, boho-style belt with an open, airy stitch. It looks complicated, but the pattern is surprisingly simple once you see the rhythm of it.
You can crochet a lace belt to tie on jeans using a simple repeat of chains and double crochets. It takes about 30 minutes and less than 50 yards of worsted-weight cotton yarn.
What you need
Worsted-weight cotton yarn
About 50 yards. Choose a solid color or a funky variegated one for a boho look.
Crochet hook size H (5.0 mm) or I (5.5 mm)
A larger hook creates a drapier lace. If you crochet tightly, go up a size.
Scissors and yarn needle
For weaving in ends. A blunt-tip needle works best.
Tape measure or ruler
To check your waist measurement and belt length as you go.
What yarn and hook work best?
For a belt that holds its shape and lies flat, choose a non-stretchy yarn. Cotton is ideal because it doesn't stretch out as you wear it. A worsted-weight cotton like Lily Sugar'n Cream or Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton works well.
Use a hook one or two sizes larger than the yarn label suggests. For worsted weight, that means an H (5.0 mm) or I (5.5 mm) hook. The larger hook keeps the lace open and drapey, not stiff.
You'll need about 50 yards for a typical waist. That's less than one ball of most cotton yarns. If you want a longer belt or longer ties, add another 10 to 15 yards.
If you only have acrylic yarn, that's fine. Just block the finished belt gently to even out the stitches.
How to measure for the right length
The belt needs to wrap around your waist with a little overlap for tying. Measure your waist where you want the belt to sit. Add 12 to 16 inches for the tails that tie into a bow.
A typical waist measurement of 30 inches means a belt about 42 to 46 inches long. If you're making it as a gift, guess on the longer side. It's easier to trim the tails than to add more length.
The lace pattern, row by row
Chain a multiple of 4 plus 3. For a belt that's about 1.5 inches wide, start with 19 chains.
Row 1: Double crochet in the 4th chain from the hook. Chain 1, skip 1 chain, double crochet in the next chain. Repeat across. Turn.
Row 2: Chain 3 (counts as a double crochet). Double crochet in the first chain-1 space. Chain 1, double crochet in the next chain-1 space. Repeat across, ending with a double crochet in the top of the turning chain. Turn.
Repeat Row 2 until the belt reaches your desired length. End with a row that doesn't leave a loose tail, then fasten off and weave in the ends.
If you want a wider belt, start with more chains. Each repeat of 4 chains adds about half an inch.
How to tie it on jeans so it stays put
Wrap the belt around your waist over your jeans. Cross the tails at the front or side, then tie a simple bow. The lace is open enough that the bow holds well without slipping.
If the belt feels too loose, you can double-knot it. If it feels too tight, loosen the bow and adjust.
The belt is not meant to hold your pants up. It's a decorative accessory. Wear it with high-waisted jeans or over a dress for a boho look.
What to do when the edges curl
Lace strips often curl, especially if your tension is tight. If the edges roll, wet the belt and pin it flat to a towel. Let it dry completely.
Blocking also evens out the stitches and makes the lace look crisp. You can block it every time you wash it.
Step
Measure your waist
Wrap a tape measure around your waist where you plan to wear the belt. Add 12 to 16 inches for the ties. Write that number down.
Make a foundation chain
Chain a multiple of 4 plus 3. For a 1.5-inch-wide belt, start with 19 chains. If you want a wider belt, chain more.
Work the first row
Double crochet in the 4th chain from the hook. Chain 1, skip 1 chain, double crochet in the next chain. Repeat to the end. Turn.
Repeat the lace row
Chain 3 (counts as a double crochet). Double crochet in the first chain-1 space. Chain 1, double crochet in the next space. Repeat across, ending with a double crochet in the top of the turning chain. Turn.
Keep going until it's long enough
Repeat the lace row until the belt measures your desired length. Fasten off and weave in the ends.
Tie it on
Wrap the belt around your waist over your jeans. Tie the tails in a bow. Adjust the bow to sit where you like.
Ways to change it
Wider belt
Start with more chains. Each extra repeat of 4 chains adds about half an inch to the width.
Softer drape
Use a lighter weight yarn like sport or DK, and a smaller hook. The belt will be more delicate.
Fringe ties
Instead of a bow, leave long tails and add beads or knots at the ends for a funky look.
Solid vs. variegated yarn
Variegated yarn shows off the lace pattern, while solid colors let the texture shine.
Different stitch pattern
Swap the double crochet for a shell stitch or filet mesh for a completely different look.
The short version
- Cotton yarn works best because it doesn't stretch out.
- Use a hook one or two sizes larger than the yarn label suggests.
- Measure your waist and add 12 to 16 inches for the ties.
- The lace pattern is a simple repeat of double crochet and chain spaces.
- Block the belt to stop edges from curling.
- The belt is decorative and won't hold your pants up.
Questions people ask
How long should a crochet belt be?
Measure your waist where you want the belt to sit, then add 12 to 16 inches for the ties. For a 30-inch waist, that's about 42 to 46 inches.
What yarn is best for a crochet belt?
Non-stretchy yarn like cotton is best because it won't stretch out as you wear it. Worsted-weight cotton is a good choice.
How do I keep the belt from curling?
Block the belt by wetting it and pinning it flat to dry. This evens out the stitches and removes curl.
Make one for your favorite jeans
This lace belt is a quick project that adds a personal touch to any outfit. It's also a great way to use up small amounts of cotton yarn. Stitch with ease.
