Create A Crochet Baby Mermaid Tail: Step-By-Step Guide

Mermaids are a beloved mythical creature, especially among children. Crocheting a mermaid tail for babies is a fun way to keep them warm and comfortable. The design typically resembles a sleeping bag or a blanket, making it perfect for naptime or bedtime. The crocheted mermaid tail is often accompanied by a seashell top or bra, completing the mermaid look. There are various free patterns and tutorials available online, catering to different skill levels and offering different sizes, from babies to adults.

Mermaid tail blanket

Materials

The amount of yarn you will need depends on the size of your blanket. For a baby blanket, you will need 4 balls of yarn, while for an adult blanket, you will need 7 balls. You will also need a crochet hook. The size of the hook will depend on the weight of your yarn.

Instructions

The blanket is worked in three different sections: the body, the fin, and the ruffles.

Body

The body of the blanket is worked in rounds, starting with a magic ring. You will work primarily with double crochet stitches, increasing in each round to create the shape of the tail. The number of stitches and rounds will depend on the size you are making.

Fin

The fin is worked separately from the body and then sewn on. You will chain a certain number of stitches (depending on the size) and then work rows of double crochet stitches.

Ruffles

The ruffles are crocheted directly to the top of the mermaid tail. You will work a series of double crochet stitches and decreases to create the ruffled border.

Sizing

The number of stitches and rounds for each size (baby, toddler, child, teen, adult) will vary. For example, the baby size is 12" wide by 23" long, while the adult size is 23" wide by 50" long. You can also adjust the pattern to make the tail longer or shorter as needed.

Cocoon design

The cocoon design of a crochet baby mermaid tail is a popular choice for newborn photo shoots. The design is made like a sleeping bag, stitched up at the bottom, and is intended to tightly tuck in newborns and babies.

The cocoon is crocheted in three sections: the body, the fin, and the ruffles. The body and fin are sewn together with a tapestry needle, and the ruffles are crocheted directly onto the top of the tail. The ruffled edge adds a creative flair to the design and keeps the baby comfy.

The cocoon is made with double crochet stitches and a yarn that creates long, sweeping colour transitions. The Mystic Mermaid Cocoon pattern by B.Hooked is an example of an intermediate-level pattern with a circumference of 24" and a length of 20". The pattern includes a video tutorial for crocheting the ruffles and written instructions for the entire project.

The Mermaid Tail Cocoon pattern by Amy B Stitched is another free pattern that gives the illusion of scales without the bulk. It works up quickly and has three different children's sizes. It also includes instructions for stitching a "starfish friend" accent to attach to the cocoon.

The cocoon design is a fun and creative way to keep babies warm and comfortable, while also adding a touch of magic and whimsy to their wardrobe or photo shoots.

Bra top

To make a crochet baby mermaid tail with a bra top, you can follow this step-by-step guide:

Materials:

Firstly, you will need to gather the necessary materials and tools. These include:

• Yarn in your chosen colour/s (e.g. blue, green, purple) and a suitable crochet hook.
• Other embellishments such as pearls, starfish, or shells.
• A needle for sewing on any additional details.

For the bra top, you can create a simple triangle or halter-style top with crocheted cups and a shell or scallop design.

Cups:

Chain stitch the required number for your cup size, forming a foundation chain. Then, work in rows of double crochet, increasing at the end of each row to shape the curve of the cup. You can follow a basic bra cup pattern and adjust it to your desired size.

Straps:

For the straps, chain stitch the desired length and then work in rows of double crochet until you reach the desired width. Attach the straps to the cups by sewing them securely in place.

Shell/Scallop Design:

To create a shell or scallop design along the edge of the cups, work in rows of treble crochet, increasing and decreasing as needed to form the shell shape. You can add a row of single crochet stitches along the edge for a neater finish.

Tail:

For the tail, you can follow a basic crochet tube pattern, starting at the waist and increasing stitches to form a tapered shape. Work in rows of double crochet, increasing at the end of each row, until you reach the desired length. You can add fins or other details by sewing them onto the tail.

Finishing Touches:

Finally, you can add any extra embellishments, such as sewing on pearls or attaching a starfish or shell to the bra top. Block your work if needed and weave in any loose ends.

Your crochet baby mermaid tail with a bra top is now complete! This is a general guide, and you can adjust the pattern as needed to fit your specific size requirements.

Colour combinations

For a uniform look, you could go for a stunning shade of teal, or a combination of red, blue and yellow, or shades of blue and green.

If you want to create a rainbow effect, you can use shades of red, orange, green, blue and violet. You can also use self-striping yarn to create a multi-coloured effect without having to change colours.

For a more subtle multi-coloured look, you can use different shades of the same colour, such as different shades of blue. You can also use complementary shades, such as light green and emerald, or aqua.

If you want to create a scale-like effect, you can switch colours after every two rounds/rows so that each layer of scales is a different colour.

Sewing the pieces together

Firstly, you will need to gather your crocheted pieces, which include the body of the tail, the fin, and the ruffles. The body and fin will be sewn together, and the ruffles will be crocheted directly onto the top of the tail.

For the sewing process, you will need a tapestry needle and a length of yarn in a matching colour to your pieces. Cut a length of yarn that is approximately 12 inches long. Thread the yarn through the eye of the tapestry needle.

To begin sewing the body and fin together, find the centre of the fin by folding it in half lengthwise. Then, with your tapestry needle, run the yarn in and out of each double crochet stitch along the top edge of the fin. Leave a tail of yarn at the beginning, measuring about 4 inches. This will be used to secure the fin in place.

Now, scrunch the fin together at the top by gently pulling on the yarn tail. Secure the fin by tying a knot with the tail and then weaving it in. This will give the fin a ruffled appearance.

Next, sew the top part of the fin to the body of the mermaid tail. Use the same yarn and tapestry needle, and sew along the bottom edge of the body piece, attaching it to the fin. Weave in the yarn ends to secure it in place.

Finally, it's time to add the ruffles. The ruffles are crocheted directly onto the top of the mermaid tail. Fasten your yarn onto the back of the tail, wrapping it around the chain from the second-to-last round.

The ruffle pattern is as follows: crochet 4 double crochet stitches around the chain. Rotate your work 90 degrees counterclockwise. Crochet 3 double crochet stitches in between the next two double crochet stitches. Rotate your work again, and crochet 5 double crochet stitches around the next stitch. Continue rotating your work and crocheting in this manner around the circumference of the tail. Join with a slip stitch to the third chain and fasten off.

Repeat this ruffle pattern for two more rounds, moving one row down each time, to create a layered ruffle effect.

And there you have it! Your crochet baby mermaid tail is now complete and ready to be enjoyed by your little one.

Frequently asked questions