55 patterns

1950s Crochet Patterns (1950–1953)

These 55 1950s crochet patterns come from 6 pattern books published between 1950 and 1953 — the mid-century star and spool books of the 1950s. Each keeps the original design and photograph, names the book it was printed in, and adds modern thread or yarn equivalents with a note of every change.

By the crochetpatterns.io editorial team · Updated · Editorial policy

What kinds of 1950s crochet patterns are these?

The 1950s designs in this library are 19 afghans & bedspreads, 18 edgings & trims, 10 stoles & shawls, 8 doilies, tablecloths & chair backs. Stitch names in books of this period do not always mean what they mean today, so every pattern records the key printed in its own source book and lists each change we made.

1950s patterns by project type
Project typePatterns
Afghans & bedspreads19
Edgings & trims18
Stoles & shawls10
Doilies, tablecloths & chair backs8

Frequently asked questions

Are these 1950s crochet patterns free to use?

The original designs are public domain in the United States. Each pattern page shows the first section of the instructions free with the original photograph; the complete patterns are in the printable PDF collections.

Have the 1950s patterns been changed?

The designs are unchanged. Instructions are rewritten in current US abbreviations and split into numbered rows or rounds, and anything the original leaves unclear is marked rather than guessed.