Doily Figure 71

Doily Figure 71 by Cobbler's Cabin

Project Overview

Doily Figure 71 is a vintage-inspired crochet doily adapted from the classic Priscilla Crochet Book, Centerpieces and Doilies, originally published by The Priscilla Publishing Co. in Boston, Massachusetts in 1915. This decorative centerpiece features an intricate circular design built from the center outward, making it an ideal project for crafters seeking to develop intermediate-level crochet skills.

What Is Being Made

This pattern creates a circular doily with a structured, symmetrical design. The finished piece features multiple rounds of increasing complexity, progressing from a simple ring foundation to elaborate shell stitches and treble groupings. The doily is designed to function as a decorative centerpiece, showcasing delicate lacework typical of early twentieth-century crochet design.

Crochet Techniques Used

The pattern employs fundamental crochet techniques combined in an intermediate-level construction method. The doily begins with a magic ring or chain foundation, then builds outward through successive rounds. Key techniques include:

• Working in the round from a central ring
• Increasing stitches strategically to create flare and dimension
• Creating spaced groupings using chain spaces
• Building shell motifs that form the decorative borders
• Joining rounds with slip stitches to maintain structure

Stitches Used

Doily Figure 71 utilizes a focused selection of fundamental crochet stitches:

• Chain (ch) — forms the foundation ring and creates spacing between stitch groups
• Slip stitch (slst) — joins rounds and connects stitches without adding height
• Single crochet (sc) — used minimally for joining
• Double crochet (dc) — provides medium height and forms portions of shell stitches
• Treble crochet (tr) — creates taller stitch elements and decorative clusters
• Shell stitch — a composite motif consisting of 2 double crochets, 1 chain space, and 2 double crochets, forming the characteristic scalloped edges

Materials and Tools

This pattern requires minimal materials, making it an economical project. The specified supplies include a Size 8 steel crochet hook and Size 10 cotton crochet thread. The use of thread rather than yarn creates the fine, delicate lacework characteristic of traditional doilies. Steel hooks provide the durability and precision needed for working with thin thread, while cotton thread offers structure and a classic aesthetic appropriate for decorative centerpieces.

Skill Level and Pattern Structure

Rated as intermediate difficulty, this pattern assumes familiarity with basic crochet stitches and the ability to follow multi-round instructions. The pattern progresses through four documented rounds, with each round introducing slightly more complex stitch combinations and spacing. Crafters should be comfortable reading crochet abbreviations, counting stitches, and maintaining consistent tension when working with fine thread.