Hexagonal doily

Hexagonal Lace Doily by Frances Powell

What is Being Made

This crochet pattern creates decorative hexagonal doilies suitable for home décor applications. The design is available in two finished sizes: a large doily measuring approximately 10 inches (25.5 cm) in diameter, and a smaller version measuring approximately 6½ inches (16.5 cm) in diameter. Both doilies feature intricate lace construction with a hexagonal shape, making them versatile pieces for table settings, furniture accents, or display purposes.

Techniques Used

The hexagonal doily pattern employs fundamental crochet techniques combined with more advanced lace-making methods. The construction begins with a center point and works outward in expanding rounds, a common approach for creating geometric shapes in crochet. The pattern utilizes cluster stitches, which are created by working multiple yarn-over and loop-pulling sequences into a single stitch or chain space before completing the cluster with a final yarn-over pull-through. This technique creates textured, dimensional elements within the lace structure. The pattern also incorporates chain spaces (abbreviated as ch sp), which are deliberate gaps created by chain stitches that allow for open, airy lace sections characteristic of doily designs.

Stitches Used

The pattern employs a variety of crochet stitches to build the hexagonal structure and create visual interest:

• Chain stitch (ch) – the foundation stitch used to create the base and spacing throughout the pattern
• Double crochet (dc) – a medium-height stitch providing structure and density to the design
• Half treble crochet (htr) – a taller stitch used for specific shaping requirements
• Treble crochet (tr) – an even taller stitch that creates height and openness in the lace sections
• Double treble (dtr) – the tallest stitch in the pattern, used for dramatic height and dramatic lace effects
• Slip stitch (sl) – used to join rounds and create seamless transitions between sections
• V-stitch (V-st) – a special abbreviation for this pattern defined as [1 tr, 2 ch, 1 tr] all into next stitch, creating a decorative V-shaped element
• Cluster stitch – a textured stitch created through multiple yarn-over sequences, adding dimensional detail to the lace

Materials and Tools

The pattern requires fine crochet thread and appropriately sized hooks to achieve the delicate lace effect. For the large doily, you will need a 1.25 mm crochet hook and No. 12 thread, with approximately 20 grams of thread required to complete the project. For the small doily, a smaller 0.75 mm hook is used with No. 80 thread, requiring one 5-gram ball to finish. The use of fine thread and small hooks creates the intricate, delicate appearance characteristic of traditional lace doilies. Working with thread rather than yarn requires patience and attention to detail, making this project suitable for intermediate-level crocheters with experience handling fine materials.

Gauge and Sizing

Gauge measurements are provided to help crocheters verify their tension before committing to the full project. For the large doily, rounds 1 through 5 should measure approximately 2 inches (5 cm) in diameter. For the small doily, the same initial rounds should measure approximately 1¼ inches (3 cm) in diameter. Maintaining proper gauge is essential when working with fine thread and small hooks, as even slight variations in tension can significantly affect the finished size and appearance of the delicate lace structure.