✨ How I Fell in Love with Irish Crochet
I first discovered Irish crochet back in 2011, when I came across some beautiful Eastern European crochet magazines. I was instantly captivated by the delicate motifs, floral compositions, and the freedom of combining elements like you were painting with thread.
A few years later, I started creating simple pieces inspired by that style. I made some garments for small local shops in my hometown—nothing too elaborate, but they gave me a chance to experiment with leaves, flowers, and lace assembly.
The little leaf in the photo above comes from one of those early magazines and it instantly caught my eye. I knew I had to make my own version one day.
🍃 My First Leaf Pattern Design
When I finally decided to design my first Irish crochet top pattern, I wanted something simpler than the ornate styles I had seen.
So I created a basic, clean-edged leaf—not too decorative, but still elegant. I wanted something versatile that could work in different compositions, and be easy enough for others to try without needing years of experience.
That top you see in the photo became my first sale through my own website, and it redirected the buyer to my Ravelry shop. It holds a special place in my heart for that reason.
🧵 Here’s the Diagram I Use
In this post, I’m sharing the crochet diagram I created for my personal version of the Irish-style leaf.
It’s not a full pattern with written instructions, but if you’re familiar with crochet charts, it’s easy to follow.
I chose to simplify the structure and remove outer borders. The shape stays true to a botanical feel, with a defined center and soft symmetry that works beautifully with flowers and lace.
👉 This version shows a simple leaf, but if you prefer, you can add another round of half double or double crochets around the edge—like the one in the main photo. And finally, for a more decorative touch, you can finish with a surface slip stitch border and little picots.
Leaf Pattern
This crochet leaf design is inspired by traditional Irish crochet techniques. It’s a beautiful, versatile motif perfect for adding a unique, handmade touch to your garments, accessories, or creative projects.
Materials & Info
Difficulty: Easy
Hook Size: 1.75 mm
Yarn: Mercerized cotton (color of your choice)
Other tools: Sewing needle, scissors
Finished Size: Approx. 1.57″ x 1″
Abbreviations (US Terms)
Ch: Chain
Sl st: Slip Stitch
Hdc: Half Double Crochet
Dc: Double Crochet
Tr: Treble Crochet
Dtr: Double Treble Crochet
Step-by-Step Instructions
First Side of the Leaf
Base Chain: Chain 17.
Turning & Tip: Chain 1 more (18 chains total). Make 1 sl st in the 16th chain from the hook, and 1 sl st in the 15th chain. (You will have 14 chains left for the remaining stitches).
Make 1 hdc in the next chain.
Make 1 dc in each of the next 2 chains.
Make 1 tr in each of the next 2 chains.
Make 1 dtr in the next chain.
In the next chain, work 2 dtr in the same stitch.
In the next chain, work 2 dtr in the same stitch.
Make 1 tr in each of the next 2 chains.
Make 1 dc in each of the next 2 chains.
Make 1 hdc in the next chain.
Make 1 sl st in each of the remaining 2 chains.
Second Side (Mirroring)
Turn your work so you can work along the opposite side of the foundation chain to create a completely symmetrical leaf.
Make 2 sl st over the 2 previous slip stitches.
Make 1 hdc.
Make 1 dc, then another dc in the next stitch.
Make 1 tr, then another tr in the next stitch.
Make 1 dtr.
In the next base stitch, work 2 dtr.
Make 1 dtr.
In the next base stitch, work 2 dtr.
Make 1 tr, then another tr in the next stitch.
Make 1 dc, then another dc.
Make 1 hdc.
Finish: Make 2 sl st over the last 2 slip stitches.
Fasten off, weave in your ends, and your Irish crochet leaf is ready!
💡 New to Irish crochet or struggle with diagrams?
If reading charts feels a bit tricky, or if you want to master this motif with absolute confidence, I’ve got you covered! You can grab my Complete Premium Pattern. It includes a row-by-row written explanation in both English and Spanish, along with high-quality, step-by-step photos that guide you through every single stitch.
You can support my work and get the full digital pattern on:
🌸 Ready to take this leaf to the next level?
Want to see how this exact leaf transforms into a gorgeous, wearable piece of art? Click the image on the right below to check out my full Irish Crochet Top Pattern and take your crochet journey to the next level!
