Skyra Skort Crochet Written Pattern: Your Complete Guide to a Stylish, Functional Wardrobe Staple
If you’ve been searching for a crochet project that blends beauty with practicality, the Skyra Skort is about to become your new favorite make. This written crochet pattern walks you through every step of creating a gorgeous crocheted skort — that beloved hybrid garment that looks like a skirt from the front but has built-in shorts underneath for all-day comfort and confidence. Whether you’re a seasoned crocheter looking for your next fashion-forward project or an intermediate maker ready to level up your skills, this Skyra Skort pattern is the perfect combination of wearable art and functional design.
In this post, you’ll find the full written pattern, detailed instructions, sizing guidance, yarn recommendations, stitch breakdowns, and finishing tips to help you create a skort you’ll reach for again and again throughout the warmer months — and beyond.
What Is a Skort and Why Crochet One?
A skort is a combination skirt and shorts garment, typically featuring a skirt overlay that drapes beautifully over an integrated shorts layer. It’s the kind of piece that gives you freedom of movement while maintaining the feminine, flowy aesthetic of a skirt. Crocheting one takes that concept and elevates it entirely.
A crocheted skort like the Skyra has incredible texture, breathability, and a handmade quality that you simply can’t buy in a fast-fashion store. The open-work stitches allow airflow in warm weather, the waistband stretches comfortably for a custom fit, and the finished result is something you made with your own hands — which makes wearing it even more satisfying.
The Skyra Skort is designed with a relaxed, bohemian silhouette that works beautifully for beach cover-ups, summer festivals, casual everyday wear, or even a dressed-up outdoor brunch look. Pair it with a fitted tank top, a flowy linen blouse, or a crochet crop top, and you’ve got an outfit that turns heads for all the right reasons.
Materials and Tools
Before you begin, gather everything you’ll need. Having your materials ready from the start makes the crocheting process smoother and more enjoyable.
Yarn: You’ll want a lightweight cotton or cotton-blend yarn in a worsted weight (category 3 or 4) for best results. Cotton is ideal for a skort because it’s breathable, holds its shape after blocking, and drapes beautifully. Some wonderful choices include Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton, Paintbox Simply DK Cotton, or Paintbox Simply Chunky if you prefer a chunkier texture. Plan on approximately 400–700 yards depending on your size, with larger sizes requiring more yardage.
Hook: A 4.0mm to 5.0mm crochet hook works well for this pattern, depending on your gauge and the weight of yarn you choose. Always swatch before beginning.
Notions:
One yard of 1-inch wide elastic for the waistband
A tapestry needle for weaving in ends
Scissors
Stitch markers
A measuring tape
Lining fabric (optional but recommended): A pair of lightweight biker shorts or athletic shorts in a coordinating color works beautifully as the integrated shorts layer. You can either sew a fabric shorts lining into the crochet skirt, or wear fitted shorts underneath. Either method works depending on your preference and sewing experience.
Sizing and Measurements
The Skyra Skort pattern is written in multiple sizes to fit a wide range of bodies. Because waistbands with elastic are naturally adjustable, the most important measurement to match is the hip circumference and the desired skirt length.
Sizes available:
XS (waist 24–26 inches, hip 34–36 inches)
S (waist 26–28 inches, hip 36–38 inches)
M (waist 28–30 inches, hip 38–40 inches)
L (waist 30–32 inches, hip 40–42 inches)
XL (waist 32–34 inches, hip 42–44 inches)
2XL (waist 34–36 inches, hip 44–46 inches)
Finished skirt length: approximately 14–16 inches from waistband to hem, not including the waistband casing itself (which adds about 2 additional inches). You can easily lengthen or shorten the skirt by adding or removing rows before the hem edging.
Gauge
Gauge is important for any wearable project. Work a gauge swatch before beginning to ensure your finished skort will fit as expected.
Gauge: 14 stitches x 16 rows = 4 inches in single crochet using a 4.5mm hook and worsted weight cotton yarn.
If your swatch comes out larger than this (fewer stitches per 4 inches), try a smaller hook. If your swatch comes out smaller (more stitches per 4 inches), try a larger hook. Adjust accordingly and re-swatch until your gauge matches.
Abbreviations and Stitches Used
This pattern uses US crochet terminology throughout. Here is a quick reference guide for all abbreviations used:
ch — chain
sl st — slip stitch
sc — single crochet
hdc — half double crochet
dc — double crochet
sk — skip
sp — space
rep — repeat
st(s) — stitch(es)
yo — yarn over
RS — right side
WS — wrong side
beg — beginning
pm — place marker
BLO — back loop only
Special Stitch — Shell Stitch: Work 5 dc into the same stitch or space. This creates the decorative shell clusters visible throughout the skirt panel of the Skyra Skort.
Special Stitch — V-Stitch (V-st): Work (dc, ch 1, dc) into the same stitch or space.
Pattern Notes
Read through the entire pattern before beginning. The Skyra Skort is worked in two main sections: the waistband and shorts layer first, then the skirt overlay panel which is worked flat (in rows) and seamed at the back, or worked in the round depending on your preference.
The waistband is worked flat in rows of single crochet through the back loop only (BLO), which creates a ribbed texture perfect for housing the elastic. Once the waistband is complete, stitches are picked up along one long edge to begin working the skirt body in the round.
The skirt body features alternating V-stitches and shell stitches for a lacy, open-work texture that is breezy and beautiful. The hem is finished with a simple shell stitch border for a polished edge.
The Skyra Skort Written Pattern
Section 1: Waistband
The waistband is worked first as a rectangular strip, then joined at the ends to create the waist opening. The elastic is inserted last.
Foundation chain: Ch 13.
Row 1: Sc in the 2nd ch from hook and in each ch across. (12 sc)
Row 2: Ch 1, turn. Sc in BLO of each st across. (12 sc)
Repeat Row 2 until the waistband strip measures the following length for your size:
XS: 24 inches
S: 26 inches
M: 28 inches
L: 30 inches
XL: 32 inches
2XL: 34 inches
Fasten off, leaving a long tail. Use the tapestry needle to whipstitch the short ends of the waistband together, forming a loop. This seam will sit at the center back of the finished garment.
Before proceeding, cut your elastic to match your actual waist measurement (not the pattern size measurement). Thread the elastic through the waistband casing and secure both ends together with a secure hand stitch or by overlapping and sewing with a sewing needle and thread. The waistband will naturally fold in half lengthwise over the elastic, creating the finished casing.
Section 2: Skirt Body
With the RS of the waistband facing you and the waistband seam at the back, join your yarn at any point along the bottom long edge of the waistband.
Setup Round: Ch 3 (counts as first dc), work dc evenly along the entire bottom edge of the waistband, placing one dc for every row end of the waistband ribbing. When you reach the starting point, sl st to the top of the beg ch 3 to join.
Your stitch count will vary slightly by size, but aim for the following approximate stitch counts after the setup round:
XS: 84 sts
S: 91 sts
M: 98 sts
L: 105 sts
XL: 112 sts
2XL: 119 sts
These stitch counts are multiples of 7, which is essential for the shell and V-stitch pattern repeat.
If your count is slightly off after picking up stitches along the waistband edge, adjust by adding or reducing a few stitches evenly spaced around. Getting to a multiple of 7 is the goal.
Round 1 (RS): Ch 3 (counts as dc), dc in the same st. Sk 2 sts, sc in next st, sk 2 sts, shell in next st (5 dc in same st), sk 2 sts, sc in next st. Repeat from to around. When the repeat doesn’t divide perfectly, end with a V-st in the last st before the sl st join instead. Sl st to top of beg ch 3.
Round 2: Ch 1, sc in same st. Ch 3, shell in next sc, ch 3, sc in center dc of next shell. Rep from to around, ending with ch 3, sl st to beg sc.
Round 3: Sl st into ch 3 sp, ch 3 (counts as dc), 2 dc in same sp. Sc in center dc of next shell, ch 3, sc in center dc of next shell, 5 dc in next ch 3 sp. Rep from * around. Sl st to top of beg ch 3.
Round 4: Ch 1, sc in same st. Ch 3, shell in next sc, ch 3, sc in center dc of shell. Rep from * around. Sl st to beg sc.
Rounds 3 and 4 form the main lace pattern. Continue repeating Rounds 3 and 4 until the skirt body measures approximately 11–12 inches from the base of the waistband, or until the skirt is your desired length minus 2 inches (to account for the hem edging).
Section 3: Hem Edging
The hem uses a decorative shell edging that frames the bottom of the skirt beautifully and gives it that finished, artisanal look.
Hem Round 1: Ch 1, sc evenly around the entire bottom edge of the skirt, placing one sc in each stitch and one sc in each chain space. Sl st to join.
Hem Round 2: Ch 1, sc in first st. Sk 2 sts, 5 dc in next st, sk 2 sts, sc in next st. Rep from to around. Sl st to join.
Hem Round 3: Ch 3 (counts as dc), 2 dc in same sc. Sc in center dc of next shell, 5 dc in next sc. Rep from * around, ending with sc in center dc of last shell. Sl st to top of beg ch 3.
Fasten off and weave in all ends.
Section 4: Shorts Liner (Optional Sewing Section)
For the integrated shorts layer, you have two easy options. The first is to purchase a pair of lightweight athletic biker shorts in a matching or coordinating color and hand stitch them to the inside of the waistband using a whipstitch around the top edge. Make sure to stitch through only the inner layer of the waistband casing (not through to the outside) so the stitching remains invisible on the RS.
The second option is to cut and sew a simple shorts liner from lightweight jersey or spandex fabric. Cut two mirror-image shorts pieces with a rise of approximately 10–12 inches and a leg width suited to your hip measurement, then sew the inner and outer leg seams, and attach the finished shorts inside the crocheted waistband as described above.
Either method gives the skort its defining functional feature — the coverage and ease of movement that makes this garment so wearable for active days and outdoor adventures.
Blocking and Finishing
Blocking is truly the step that transforms a crocheted fabric from “hand-crafted” to “polished and professional,” and it makes an especially dramatic difference on open-work lace stitches like those in the Skyra Skort.
To block your finished skort, soak the garment in cool water with a small amount of gentle wool wash or plain dish soap for 20–30 minutes. Gently press (do not wring or twist) to remove excess water, then roll it in a clean towel and press again. Lay the damp skort flat on a blocking mat or clean dry towel, and use rust-proof pins to gently stretch and open the lace pattern to its full, beautiful width. Allow it to dry completely — this may take 24 hours or more depending on your climate and yarn fiber.
Once dry, your Skyra Skort will have a gorgeous drape, open lace texture, and a professional, store-worthy finish that showcases all your hard work.
Yarn and Color Suggestions
The Skyra Skort looks stunning in a wide range of colors. A few ideas to spark your creativity:
Neutral tones like ivory, taupe, or sandy beige give the skort a timeless, bohemian feel that pairs with virtually everything in your wardrobe. A soft terracotta or warm rust creates a rich, earthy look perfect for fall-inspired outfits. Dusty blue or sage green feel fresh and summery and coordinate beautifully with white or cream tops. For something bold, a deep emerald or burnt sienna makes the lace pattern really pop.
You can also experiment with tonal or gradient yarns for a subtle, sophisticated color shift across the skirt length. Just be sure whatever yarn you choose is a fiber that drapes well — stiff acrylics will not give you the fluid movement this pattern needs to shine.
Tips for Success
Swatching is not optional for wearable garments. Even a half-inch difference in gauge can change the fit of your finished skort significantly. Take the time to swatch, measure, and adjust before committing to a full project.
Use stitch markers generously. When working in the round with a complex stitch repeat, placing a marker at the beginning of each round and at the midpoint helps you catch any counting errors early before they compound over multiple rounds.
Count your stitches at the end of every round for the first several rounds, until the pattern feels familiar and rhythmic. Shell and V-stitch lace patterns are easy to miscount, especially when you’re finding your groove with a new repeat.
If the skirt is pulling or not draping as you’d like, check your tension. Lace patterns crochet up beautifully when worked with a relaxed, even hand. Don’t grip your yarn too tightly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this pattern without a sewing liner? Yes, absolutely. Many crocheters wear the Skyra as a beach cover-up or over a swimsuit, in which case no liner is needed at all. For everyday wear, simply layering over your favorite shorts or biker shorts works just as well as an attached liner.
Can I adjust the length? Yes. Simply add more repeats of Rounds 3 and 4 in the skirt body section for a longer skirt, or work fewer repeats for a shorter, mini-skort style. Keep in mind that additional length will require additional yardage.
Is this pattern suitable for beginners? The Skyra Skort is rated intermediate. If you’re comfortable with basic stitches (sc, dc, chain, slip stitch) and have worked in the round before, you should be able to follow this pattern. The shell and V-stitch lace repeat looks impressive but is actually quite logical and rhythmic once you’re a few rounds in.
Can I use a thicker yarn? Yes, but keep in mind that a bulkier yarn will change the gauge, the drape, and the overall texture of the skirt. If you go up in yarn weight, go up in hook size as well and re-swatch carefully.
