Lace doilies are one of the most timeless expressions of crochet artistry. Lightweight, elegant, and richly textured, they bring a charming and decorative touch to any surface. The doily shown in the image is an exquisite blend of spiral shell motifs, geometric openwork, and a scalloped mesh border, giving it a sophisticated handcrafted look.
This design is perfect for:
- Home décor
- Gift sets
- Dining table coasters
- Layering under vases or candle holders
- Joining multiple motifs for table runners
The pattern is worked in the round, gradually building outward from a tight spiral center to an airy lace mesh.
🧶 Materials
- Size 10 cotton crochet thread (color of your choice)
- 1.25–1.75 mm steel crochet hook
- Scissors
- Tapestry needle
- Blocking board & pins (optional but recommended)
Finished size: about 15–18 cm depending on thread tension.
🧵 Stitches Used (US Terms)
- ch = chain
- sc = single crochet
- dc = double crochet
- tr = treble crochet
- sl st = slip stitch
- picot = ch 3, sl st in first ch
- shell = multiple dc in same stitch
✨ Spiral Lace Doily Pattern
⭐ Round 1 – Center
Make MR.
- Ch 3 (counts as dc), work 11 dc into ring (12 total).
- Pull tight, sl st to join.
⭐ Round 2 – Expanding the Spiral
- Ch 3, dc in same stitch.
- 2 dc in each st around (24 dc).
- Sl st to join.
⭐ Round 3 – Start Shell Formation
- Ch 3, skip next st.
- 2 dc in next st, ch 1, skip 1 st – repeat around.
- Sl st to top of ch 3.
(You will see the start of the fan-like spiral shapes.)
⭐ Round 4 – Build the Shells
In each ch-1 space:
Work 5 dc.
Sl st to join.
12 shells total.
⭐ Round 5 – Lace Setup
Between each shell:
- Ch 3, sc between shells.
- Repeat around.
This makes 12 small arches.
⭐ Round 6 – Lace Expansion
In each ch-3 arch:
Work (sc, ch 2, dc, ch 2, sc).
Creates 12 pointed arches.
⭐ Round 7 – Mesh Lattice Begins
- Ch 5 (dc + ch 2).
- Dc in next dc or arch point.
- Repeat ch 2, dc around.
Sl st to join.
Creates a mesh base around the spiral shells.
⭐ Round 8 – Strengthening the Mesh
In each ch-2 space:
Work (sc, ch 3, sc).
Repeat around.
⭐ Round 9 – Outer Lace Fans
In each mesh space:
- (sc, ch 4, 3 dc, ch 4, sc).
Repeat around.
⭐ Round 10 – Final Picot Border
Along the arch edges:
- Sc, ch 3 picot, sc, ch 3 picot, sc.
- Repeat around the entire doily.
Fasten off and weave ends.
🌟 Blocking (Optional but Recommended)
To open the lace beautifully:
- Soak the doily in lukewarm water.
- Pin out each point evenly.
- Spray with starch if you want crisp lace.
- Let dry completely.
This transforms the doily into a perfectly shaped, delicate piece.
💛 Where to Use This Doily
- Under candles, plants, or small décor
- As a coaster
- Sew several together for table runners or placemats
- Frame it as wall art
- Use as an applique on garments or bags
