Birdie Crochet Kimono

Learn how to crochet a gorgeous, breezy summer layer with this free crochet kimono pattern featuring a stunning lacy wave stitch.

Have you ever wanted a lightweight, stylish layer that instantly elevates a simple jeans-and-tee outfit?

Finding the perfect summer garment can be tricky because many crochet designs end up too heavy or stiff for warm weather.

That is why I designed this breezy, open-stitch beauty.

This design uses a gorgeous wave stitch that mimics the gentle roll of ocean tides, making it the ultimate accessory for sunny days. It is worked side-to-side in one continuous piece, meaning you won't have to worry about sewing a dozen different panels together at the end.

I remember picking up this beautiful cake yarn on a trip to New York, and I immediately knew it had to become a flowing, colorful wrap. If you love relaxed, easy-to-wear garments, you might also enjoy making my Sage Crochet Poncho for another effortless layering piece.

Do not let the wave stitch intimidate you.

Once you get into the rhythm of the heights, it becomes incredibly meditative.

Why You'll Love This Pattern

• Seamless Construction: The continuous panel design means minimal finishing work and no tedious sewing of separate front and back pieces.
• Breezy and Breathable: The lacy wave stitch creates a beautiful drape that keeps you cool even on warm summer days.
• Highly Customizable: You can easily adjust the length and width to create your perfect fit.

Materials You'll Need

• Yarn: DK weight (Category 3) yarn. The sample uses Lion Brand Mandala in the Pegasus colorway for the main body, and Baby Bee yarn in Naked for the bottom ribbing.
• Hook: Size K (6.5mm) for the main body and Size H (5.0mm) for the ribbing.
• Notions: Tapestry needle for seaming and weaving in ends.
• Yardage: Main body: 3 (4, 5) skeins of Lion Brand Mandala. Ribbing: 120 (200, 250) yards. (If using a single color for the entire project, you will need approximately 1700, 2100, or 2500 yards, excluding the ribbing).

Gauge & Sizing

• Gauge: Using the larger hook and body yarn, chain 50. Work the left panel pattern until you have 6 wave rows. One wave (measured from sc to sc) = 4.25 inches. Four wave rows (with sc rows on either side) = 4 inches. Each pattern repeat adds 1 inch.
• Sizes included: S (M, L, XL, 2XL, 3XL). Designed to be loose-fitting.
• Finished measurements: Length: 32 inches from shoulder to the bottom of the ribbing (all sizes). Armhole-to-armhole width: S/M: 38 inches, L/XL: 46 inches, 2XL/3XL: 54 inches.

Abbreviations & Stitch Instructions

• sc (single crochet): Insert hook, yarn over, pull up a loop, yarn over, pull through both loops. (If you are used to British terminology, check out my US to UK Crochet Chart).
• hdc (half double crochet): Yarn over, insert hook, yarn over, pull up a loop, yarn over, pull through all three loops.
• dc (double crochet): Yarn over, insert hook, yarn over, pull up a loop, yarn over, pull through two loops, yarn over, pull through remaining two loops.
• tr (triple crochet): Yarn over twice, insert hook, yarn over, pull up a loop, (yarn over, pull through two loops) three times.
• fpdc (front post double crochet): Work a double crochet around the post of the indicated stitch from front to back to front.
• bpdc (back post double crochet): Work a double crochet around the post of the indicated stitch from back to front to back.

Pattern Notes

• Skill Level: Intermediate
• This pattern is written in US crochet terms.
• The item is worked flat in three continuous sections (left panel, back panel, right panel).
• Tension Tip: If you tend to chain tightly, you may want to use a chain-4 instead of a chain-3 for your turning chains on the wave rows to prevent the edges from pulling.
• Customization Tip: To make the kimono longer, add multiples of 32 to your starting chain. Every 32 chains will add about 4.5 inches of length. If you struggle with long starting chains, read my guide on How to Adjust Your Foundation Chain Without Unraveling your First Row in Crochet.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Crafting the Left Panel

Using the larger hook, chain 210.

Row 1: Work 1 sc in the second chain from your hook and in each chain across. Turn. (209 sc).

Row 2 (Wave Row): Ch 1 (does not count as a stitch here and throughout), 1 sc in the first stitch, 1 sc in the next stitch, ch 1, skip 1, 1 hdc in the next, ch 1, skip 1, 1 dc in the next, ch 1, skip 1, 1 tr in the next, ch 1, skip 1, 1 tr in the next, ch 1, skip 1, 1 dc in the next, ch 1, skip 1, 1 hdc in the next, *(ch 1, skip 1, 1 sc in the next, ch 1, skip 1, 1 sc in the next, ch 1, skip 1, 1 hdc in the next, ch 1, skip 1, 1 dc in the next, ch 1, skip 1, 1 tr in the next, ch 1, skip 1, 1 tr in the next, ch 1, skip 1, 1 dc in the next, ch 1, skip 1, 1 hdc in the next); repeat from * to the last 3 stitches, ch 1, skip 1, 1 sc in the last 2 stitches. Turn. (13 waves).

Row 3: Ch 1, 1 sc in the first stitch, 1 sc in the next stitch, *(1 sc in the next ch-1 space, 1 sc in the next stitch); repeat from * to the last stitch, 1 sc in the last stitch. Turn. (209 sc).

Row 4: Ch 1, 1 sc in the first stitch and in each stitch across. Turn. (209 sc).

Row 5 (Wave Row): Ch 3 (counts as a treble crochet here and throughout), 1 tr in the next stitch, ch 1, skip 1, 1 dc in the next, ch 1, skip 1, 1 hdc in the next, ch 1, skip 1, 1 sc in the next, ch 1, skip 1, 1 sc in the next, ch 1, skip 1, 1 hdc in the next, ch 1, skip 1, 1 dc in the next, *(ch 1, skip 1, 1 tr in the next, ch 1, skip 1, 1 tr in the next, ch 1, skip 1, 1 dc in the next, ch 1, skip 1, 1 hdc in the next, ch 1, skip 1, 1 sc in the next, ch 1, skip 1, 1 sc in the next, ch 1, skip 1, 1 hdc in the next, ch 1, skip 1, 1 dc in the next); repeat from * to the last 3 stitches, ch 1, skip 1, 1 tr in the last 2 stitches. Turn. (12 full waves + a half wave on each side).

Row 6: Ch 1, 1 sc in the first stitch, 1 sc in the next stitch, *(1 sc in the next ch-1 space, 1 sc in the next stitch); repeat from * to the last stitch, 1 sc on top of the turning chain-3. Turn. (209 sc).

Row 7: Ch 1, 1 sc in the first stitch and in each stitch across. Turn. (209 sc).

Repeat Rows 2 to 7 until you have completed 10 (10, 12, 12, 14, 14) wave rows in total, ending with a Row 5 repeat. Work Row 6 once more to finish the left panel. Join the new color on the final stitch. The finished left panel should measure approximately 10 (10, 12, 12, 14, 14) inches wide.

Step 2: Working the Back Panel

Before starting, make sure you set aside matching yarn colors for the right panel so they mirror the left side. Use leftover colors for this back section.

Row 1: With the back panel color joined, ch 1 (does not count as a stitch), 1 sc in the first stitch and in the next 104 stitches. Turn. (105 sc). Your last stitch should land right in the middle of the left panel, between two single crochets of the previous wave row.

Row 2: Ch 3 (counts as a treble crochet), 1 tr in the next stitch, ch 1, skip 1, 1 dc in the next, ch 1, skip 1, 1 hdc in the next, *(ch 1, skip 1, 1 sc in the next, ch 1, skip 1, 1 sc in the next, ch 1, skip 1, 1 hdc in the next, ch 1, skip 1, 1 dc in the next, ch 1, skip 1, 1 tr in the next, ch 1, skip 1, 1 tr in the next, ch 1, skip 1, 1 dc in the next, ch 1, skip 1, 1 hdc in the next); repeat from * to the last 3 stitches, ch 1, skip 1, 1 sc in the last 2 stitches. Turn. (6 waves + a half wave).

Row 3: Ch 1, 1 sc in the first stitch, 1 sc in the next stitch, *(1 sc in the next ch-1 space, 1 sc in the next stitch); repeat from * to the last stitch, 1 sc on top of the turning chain-3. Turn. (105 sc).

Row 4: Ch 1, 1 sc in the first stitch and in each stitch across. Turn. (105 sc).

Row 5: Ch 3 (counts as a treble crochet), 1 tr in the next stitch, ch 1, skip 1, 1 dc in the next, ch 1, skip 1, 1 hdc in the next, ch 1, skip 1, 1 sc in the next, ch 1, skip 1, 1 sc in the next, ch 1, skip 1, 1 hdc in the next, ch 1, skip 1, 1 dc in the next, *(ch 1, skip 1, 1 tr in the next, ch 1, skip 1, 1 tr in the next, ch 1, skip 1, 1 dc in the next, ch 1, skip 1, 1 hdc in the next, ch 1, skip 1, 1 sc in the next, ch 1, skip 1, 1 sc in the next, ch 1, skip 1, 1 hdc in the next, ch 1, skip 1, 1 dc in the next); repeat from * ending the final repeat when 3 stitches remain, ch 1, skip 1, 1 sc in the last 2 stitches. Turn. (6 waves + a half wave).

Repeat Rows 2 to 7 of the back panel until you have 5 (6, 4, 5, 4, 5) wave rows. Work Row 6 once more, then join the color for the right panel. The back panel should measure about 5 (6, 4, 5, 4, 5) inches wide.

Step 3: Shaping the Right Panel (Sizes M, L, and 2XL)

For these sizes, your yarn is currently at the hemline.

Row 1: With the right panel color joined, ch 1, 1 sc in the first stitch and in each stitch across, then chain 105 to create the front extension. Turn.

Row 2: Work back along the chain, placing 1 sc in the back bump of the second chain from your hook and in each chain across. Slip stitch to the base of the single crochet at the neck edge to level the row. Fasten off.

Row 3: Join your yarn with a slip stitch to the very first single crochet at the bottom hem. Ch 1, then repeat Row 2 of the left panel. The pattern will now run all the way to the hem.

Repeat Rows 3 to 7 of the left panel.

Continue repeating Rows 2 to 7 of the left panel until you have 10 (12, 14) wave rows for sizes M (L, 2XL). Work Row 6 once more to finish, then fasten off.

Step 4: Shaping the Right Panel (Sizes S, XL, and 3XL)

For these sizes, your yarn is at the neck edge.

Row 1: Join your right panel color at the neck corner of the back panel. Chain 105. Work back along this chain, placing 1 sc in the second chain from your hook and in each chain across. Continue working across the back panel, placing 1 sc in each stitch to the end. Turn. (209 stitches).

Rows 2-4: Repeat Rows 5, 6, and 7 of the left panel.

Repeat Rows 2 to 7 of the left panel until you have 10 (12, 14) wave rows for sizes S (XL, 3XL). Work Row 3 once more to finish, then fasten off.

Step 5: Seaming and Neck Finishing

Fold the front extensions over to the front with the wrong sides facing out.

Using a whip stitch and your tapestry needle, seam the sides together. Leave an armhole opening at the top: 8.5 inches for S/M, 9.5 inches for L/XL, or 10.5 inches for 2XL/3XL.

To finish the neck, slip stitch to the bottom edge of the left panel. Work a neat row of single crochet up the front edge, around the back of the neck, and down the right panel edge. Fasten off.

Step 6: Adding the Hem Ribbing and Optional Tie

Switch to the smaller hook and your cream yarn. Slip stitch to the bottom hem of the kimono.

Row 1: Work a row of single crochet along the hem. Place 1 sc across each sc row end, and 3 sc across each treble or chain-3 row end. Turn. Ensure you have an even number of stitches.

Row 2: Ch 3 (counts as a double crochet), 1 dc in each stitch across. Turn.

Row 3: Ch 3, *(1 fpdc in the next stitch, 1 bpdc in the next stitch); repeat from * to the turning chain, 1 dc on top of the turning chain. Turn.

Row 4: Ch 3, *(1 fpdc in the next fpdc, 1 bpdc in the next bpdc); repeat from * to the turning chain, 1 dc on top of the turning chain. Turn.

Repeat Row 4 until your ribbing measures between 2 and 2.5 inches. Fasten off.

Optional Tie: Using the smaller hook and cream yarn, chain a cord measuring 44 inches long. Fasten off. Wrap yarn 11 times around a 3-inch piece of cardboard to make two thin tassels. Tie them to the ends of the chain, pull the tails through, and trim.

Easy Variations & Custom Ideas

• Longer Duster Length: If you want a dramatic, sweeping look, you can easily turn this into a duster. Simply add multiples of 32 to your starting chain. For inspiration on styling longer garments, take a look at my Foggy Day Duster Cardigan.
• Solid Color Classic: Instead of self-striping yarn, use a single solid color for a minimalist, elegant look that pairs beautifully with summer dresses.
• Fringe Edging: Skip the ribbed hem and add long, dramatic fringe to the bottom for a bohemian festival vibe.
• Contrast Ribbing: Experiment with bold, contrasting colors for the bottom ribbing to make the wave pattern pop.
• Lightweight Cotton Swap: Substitute the acrylic DK yarn with a bamboo or cotton blend to make it even cooler and drape beautifully.
• Colour ideas: Try warm sunset tones (oranges, pinks, and yellows) for a beach cover-up, or cool ocean blues and teals for a serene everyday layer.
• Yarn substitutions: Any standard Category 3 DK weight yarn will work. Good options include Paintbox Yarns Simply DK or Stylecraft Special DK.

Common Troubleshooting & Fixes

• Problem: The edges of my wave rows are pulling tight and curving inward.
  Fix: Your turning chains might be too tight. Try using a chain-4 instead of a chain-3 at the beginning of your treble crochet rows to give the edge more breathing room.
• Problem: My waves are not aligning correctly on top of each other.
  Fix: Double-check your stitch placement. The 2 single crochet stitches of your current wave row must sit directly on top of the 2 treble crochet stitches from the previous wave row.
• Problem: The front panels do not match in color sequence.
  Fix: Since Mandala cakes are wound differently, you may need to deconstruct a cake. Wind the colors into separate balls and join them manually to mirror the color changes of the first panel. You can learn more about managing colors seamlessly in my guide on the Seamless Color Change Technique.
• Problem: The starting chain is too tight and makes the bottom hem flare out.
  Fix: Go up a hook size just for your foundation chain, or use a chain-free foundation single crochet row to keep the edge flexible.

Care Instructions

To keep your beautiful kimono looking its best, hand wash it in cool water with a gentle wool wash. Lay it flat on a clean towel to dry. Avoid hanging it while wet, as the weight of the water can stretch out the delicate wave stitches.

Final Thoughts

There is nothing quite like the feeling of wearing a garment you made with your own two hands. I hope this breezy design brings a touch of handmade magic to your warm-weather wardrobe. Happy crocheting, my friends!