Crochet sandals with nautical motifs and buckle straps

This creates the lovely sunburst pattern visible in the sandals. The center is dense, and the edges have that beautiful petal effect.

Fasten off, leaving an 8-inch tail for joining.

Joining Motifs Lay out your motifs to plan placement. For a size 7-8 sandal, you’ll need: 2 motifs for the toe section (side by side)

2 motifs for the midfoot section (stacked behind toe motifs)

1-2 motifs for the ankle area

Join-as-you-go method: On the final round of subsequent motifs, replace the ch-2 at shell corners with: ch 1, sl st to corresponding ch-2 sp of previous motif, ch 1. This creates a flat, secure join.

Alternatively, whip stitch motifs together using your yarn tail after all motifs are complete.

T-Strap Section The vertical strap runs from the toe motifs up to the ankle.

Ankle Band

Attaching to Flip Flop Sole This is where your sandals become real footwear.

Method 1: Crochet Edging

Work a round of sc around the entire flip flop sole edge, punching through the rubber with your hook every quarter inch or so. This creates an anchor row.

Then, using sl st or sc, attach your motif assembly to this edging, matching center toe motifs to center front of sole.

Method 2: Glue and Stitch

Apply fabric glue around the sole edge. Press crocheted upper firmly against glue. Let dry completely. Then add reinforcement stitches through the upper and around the sole edge where possible.

I prefer Method 1 for durability, but Method 2 works well if your flip flops have thick soles that resist a hook.

Finishing the Sole Edge

Work a final round of sc or sl st around the entire sole edge, encasing the raw flip flop edge in yarn. This gives that polished, professional look visible in the finished sandals.

Attach buckle to strap by folding the strap end through the buckle bar and stitching securely.

Tips for Success

Block your motifs before joining. Wet blocking cotton helps even out stitches and makes joining much easier.

Try on frequently during assembly. Feet are all different shapes. Adjust motif placement as needed.

Reinforce high-stress areas with extra stitches. The toe section and ankle strap attachment points see the most wear.

Consider adding a fabric liner to the sole for extra comfort. Trace your flip flop, cut from soft cotton fabric, and glue inside the sole cup.

Sizing Adjustments For smaller feet (5-6): Use fewer motifs or slightly smaller hook.

For larger feet (9-10): Add an extra motif to the midfoot section and lengthen the T-strap by 4-6 rows.

Width adjustments: The lace motifs have natural give, but for very wide feet, space motifs slightly further apart during joining.

Caring for Your Crochet Sandals

Hand wash in cool water with mild soap. Reshape and air dry away from direct heat or sunlight (which can fade that gorgeous navy).

For quick freshening, spot clean with a damp cloth and let dry completely before wearing again.

Store stuffed with tissue paper to help motifs keep their shape between wearings.

Make It Your Own This crochet sandal pattern is wonderfully adaptable. Try these variations: Color options: Cream for a beach wedding, rust for fall, or variegated cotton for a playful look

Embellishments: Add small wooden beads to the ch-5 loops in Round 5, or weave thin leather cord through the openwork

Sole alternatives: Espadrille rope soles, cork platforms, or even sturdy leather soles from a shoe repair shop

I’m so excited for you to try this step by step crochet tutorial and create your own gorgeous summer footwear. When you finish your sandals, I’d love to see them! Tag me on Instagram or share in our Facebook group so I can celebrate with you.

Save this crochet pattern to your Pinterest boards so you can find it when you’re ready to start. And please drop a comment below if you make these beauties. I read every single one and love hearing how your projects turn out!