Crochet Butterfly Pattern

Delicate and timeless, crochet butterflies are a beautiful way to bring elegance and charm to your handmade projects. Whether you’re decorating a garment, creating wall art, or adding a special touch to a gift wrap, this lace butterfly pattern offers a stunning combination of graceful shapes and vintage lacework. Inspired by traditional motifs, this project blends circular medallions, intricate shells, and fan-shaped wings for a truly eye-catching design.

This pattern is perfect for crocheters who enjoy working with fine threads and love detailed shaping. While the piece may look complex, it’s constructed step-by-step through clear rounds and sections—making it suitable for adventurous beginners and seasoned crafters alike. With just a few materials, you can bring this beautiful butterfly to life and make it a treasured part of your handmade collection.

Materials Needed

• Crochet thread (No. 10 or similar fine cotton thread) in white or desired color

• Crochet hook size 1.25 mm (or appropriate for your thread)

• Tapestry needle for sewing parts together

• Small scissors

• Blocking board and pins (optional, for shaping)

Small Wing

Make a chain of 8, close with a slip stitch to form a ring.

1st row: 3 ch (acts as 1 dc), 15 dc in ring, join with sl st. (16 sts)
2nd row: 3 ch, 2 dc in each stitch, join with sl st. (32 sts)
3rd row: 3 ch, (1 dc in next st, 2 dc in next), repeat, join with sl st. (48 sts)
4th row: 3 ch, (1 dc in next 2 sts, 2 dc in next), repeat, join with sl st.
5th row: 3 ch, (1 dc in next 3 sts, 2 dc in next), repeat.
6th row: Continue similarly increasing every round by spacing 1 more dc before the increase. End with a round of shells: (3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc) in every 5th stitch.

Antennae:

• Make a chain of 30.

• Work back with slip stitches or sc to the start.

• Repeat for the second antenna.

Big Wing

This wing is worked around a circular motif.

Center circle:

1st row: Chain 8, close in a ring.
2nd row: 3 ch, 23 dc in ring (24 sts total).
3rd row: Shells – (3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc) in every 3rd st.
4th row: Continue the shell pattern as shown.
5th row: Expand each shell by adding ch spaces between shell groups.

Wing extension:

• After forming the central round motif, build outward rows of elongated stitches.

• Work rows of treble and double treble stitches, increasing length as shown.

• Edge with picots and shells as shown in the chart.

• The wing shape is fan-like with decorative picot edges.

Repeat symmetrically for the other big wing.

Assembly

• Sew wings to the body.

• Attach antennae.

• Use blocking for final shaping if desired.

• This pattern creates a delicate lace butterfly perfect for decorations or appliqués.

Once completed, your crochet butterfly will be a delicate piece that radiates elegance and artistry. Use it as an embellishment on clothing, home décor, bookmarks, or frame it as crochet wall art. The combination of round motifs, lacy wings, and fine picot details makes this pattern a timeless beauty worth showcasing.

Enjoy bringing this butterfly to life stitch by stitch—and don’t forget to experiment with thread colors or add a touch of shimmer for a unique twist on this classic design!