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Menina Ladies in Waiting Amigurumi Pattern

Menina Ladies in Waiting Amigurumi Pattern
4.6β˜… Rating
10-12 Hours Time Needed
2.3K Made This
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Advanced Level

Designed for experienced knitters, these patterns involve intricate designs and complex techniques to challenge and inspire.

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Slow & Steady

A 10-12 hour projectβ€”great for savoring the process over several sessions.

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Charming Critter

Delightful animal designs with sweet details that capture the essence of your favorite woodland and farmyard friends.

About This Menina Ladies in Waiting Amigurumi Pattern

This Menina Ladies in Waiting pattern brings classical Spanish art to life through crochet. Inspired by historical court figures, this elegant doll features a sophisticated multi-layered dress design with customizable color combinations. The pattern includes two styling options (Type A with lace neckline and bow, Type B with ribbed sleeves and collar) allowing you to create unique variations. The structured skirt with cardboard base ensures your Menina stands proudly as a decorative masterpiece.

Menina Ladies in Waiting Amigurumi Pattern crochet pattern - detailed view of completed project

Standing elegantly with period-accurate details, this pattern combines advanced techniques including back-loop-only stitches, crab stitch edging, and intricate dress construction. The customizable hair and accessory options let you personalize your creation.

Why You'll Love This Menina Ladies in Waiting Amigurumi Pattern

I absolutely love this pattern because it's like stepping into an art museum with your crochet hook. The way the layered skirts create that authentic period silhouette is incredibly satisfying, and I'm always amazed at how the simple color changes can completely transform the character. I cherish how this pattern challenges me to think beyond basic amigurumi and embrace sculptural crochet techniques. The moment you attach that cardboard base and your Menina stands tall on her own, there's this incredible sense of accomplishment. Plus, the flexibility to choose between two collar styles means I can make multiple versions without ever getting bored.

Menina Ladies in Waiting Amigurumi Pattern step 1 - construction progress Menina Ladies in Waiting Amigurumi Pattern step 2 - assembly progress Menina Ladies in Waiting Amigurumi Pattern step 3 - details and accessories Menina Ladies in Waiting Amigurumi Pattern step 4 - final assembly and finishing

Switch Things Up

I absolutely love experimenting with color combinations when making these Meninas. While the traditional approach uses soft pastels or jewel tones, I've discovered that creating a monochromatic version in shades of one color family creates such an elegant, museum-quality piece. I've also tried making seasonal versions – imagine a winter Menina in icy blues and silvers, or an autumn one in burnt oranges and deep burgundies.

One of my favorite modifications is changing up the hair accessories. Instead of just a bow or flower, I've added tiny crocheted crowns, pearl beads woven through the hair, or even miniature fans attached to the hands. I sometimes make the overskirt detachable with small buttons or snaps, allowing me to swap out different colored overskirts to match seasons or room dΓ©cor.

I've found that using variegated yarn for the main skirt creates a beautiful ombre effect that looks incredibly sophisticated. Another fun twist is adding embroidered details to the bodice or skirt – tiny flowers, geometric patterns, or even recreating famous artwork patterns in thread. For a truly unique touch, I occasionally work with metallic thread held together with the regular yarn for sections like the collar or sleeve cuffs, giving the Menina a regal, shimmering quality.

Common Mistakes & How to Fix Them

βœ— Not using a cardboard base inside the dress, which causes the figure to lean or collapse over time βœ— Skipping the slip stitch row before attaching arms, resulting in loose arm connections and structural weakness βœ— Overfilling the skirt section, making it difficult to attach the base and creating an uneven shape βœ— Not pinning the collar and overskirt before sewing, leading to uneven placement and asymmetrical appearance

Menina Ladies in Waiting Amigurumi Pattern

Create an enchanting Menina doll inspired by classical art with this detailed crochet pattern. This elegant Ladies in Waiting figure features a stunning layered dress with customizable colors, intricate hair styling, and authentic period details including decorative sleeves and collar options. Perfect for experienced crocheters ready to craft a sophisticated decorative piece that celebrates historical fashion and artistic heritage.

Advanced 10-12 Hours

Materials Needed for Menina Ladies in Waiting Amigurumi Pattern

β€” Main Fabric

  • 01
    Schachenmayr Organic Cotton (50g hanks, 155 meters)
  • 02
    Flesh colored yarn for skin
  • 03
    Yarn for hair color of choice
  • 04
    2-3 coordinating colors for dress and accessories
  • 05
    Small amount of white yarn for details

β€” Tools Required

  • 01
    Crochet hook size 2.5mm
  • 02
    Fiber filling/stuffing
  • 03
    Piece of cardboard
  • 04
    Darning needle
  • 05
    Pins for assembly
  • 06
    Scissors
  • 07
    Wooden skewer or stick for internal support
  • 08
    White glue for cardboard base

Progress Tracker

0% Complete

β€” Arms :

Info :

Make both the same with flesh color

Row 1 :

4 sc in a magic ring

Row 2 :

(1 inc) x 4 (8sc)

Row 3 to 21 :

8sc

Info :

Cut the thread and close. Leave aside until later

β€” Body :

Info :

With the color chosen for the body, make 28 chains and close with a sl.st

Rows 1 to 12 :

28sc

Info :

Cut the thread and weave in the loose ends. With the flesh color, on top of the last row make a row of slip stitches

Row 13 :

28 slip stitches

Info :

On the next row join the arms to the body. Make single crochets in the back loop BLO of the slip stitch on the previous row

Row 14 :

2sc, 1 dec, 3sc, take one arm and make 6sc around the top (leave loose strand at bottom), 3sc, 1 dec, 4sc, 1 dec, 3sc, take other arm and work 6sc (leave strand at bottom), 3sc, 1 dec, 2sc (36 sts)

Info :

With a darning needle sew the hole inside the arms using the attached strand

Row 15 :

(4sc, 1 dec) x 6 (30 sts)

Row 16 :

(3sc, 1 dec) x 6 (24 sts)

Row 17 :

1sc, 1 dec, 1sc, 2 dec, 1sc, 1 dec, 2sc, 1 dec, 1sc, 2 dec, 1sc, 1 dec, 1sc (16 sts)

Row 18 :

1sc, 1 dec, 2sc, 1 dec, 2sc, 1 dec, 2sc, 1 dec, 1sc (12 sts)

Rows 19 to 21 :

12sc

β€” Head :

Row 1 :

1 inc in every stitch (24 sts)

Row 2 :

(3sc, 1 inc) x 6 (30 st)

Row 3 :

(1 inc, 4sc) x 6 (36 sts)

Row 4 :

2sc, 1 inc, (5sc, 1 inc) x 5, 3sc (42 sts)

Row 5 :

(6sc, 1 inc) x 6 (48 sts)

Rows 6 to 14 :

48sc

Row 15 :

(6sc, 1 dec) x 6 (42 sts)

Row 16 :

2sc, 1 dec, (5sc and 1 dec) x 5, 3sc (36 sts)

Row 17 :

(4sc, 1 dec) x 6 (30 sts)

Row 18 :

(3sc, 1 dec) x 6 (24 sts)

Row 19 :

(2sc and 1 dec) x 6 (18 sts)

Info :

Fill the head

Row 20 :

(1sc and 1 dec) x 6 (12 sts)

Info :

Finish filling

Row 21 :

6 dec (6 sts)

Info :

Cut the yarn and close the head. Fill the body and sew closed along the bottom

β€” Skirt :

Info :

Use a color different from the body. Make 30 ch and close the loop with a sl.st. Leave a long strand to sew the skirt to the body

Row 1 :

30sc

Row 2 :

30sc

Row 3 :

5sc, 6 inc, 9sc, 6 inc, 4sc (42 sts)

Row 4 :

5sc, 1 inc, 2sc, 1 inc, 4sc, 1 inc, 2sc, 1 inc, 9sc, 1 inc, 2sc, 1 inc, 4sc, 1 inc, 2sc, 1 inc, 4sc (50 sts)

Row 5 :

5sc, 1 inc, 4sc, 1 inc, 4sc, 1 inc, 4sc, 1 inc, 9sc, 1 inc, 4sc, 1 inc, 4sc, 1 inc, 4sc, 1 inc, 4sc (58 sts)

Row 6 :

7sc, 1 inc, 4sc, 1 inc, 4sc, 1 inc, 4sc, 1 inc, 13sc, 1 inc, 4sc, 1 inc, 4sc, 1 inc, 4sc, 1 inc, 6sc (66 sts)

Row 7 :

11sc, 1 inc, 3sc, 1 inc, 2sc, 1 inc, 3sc, 1 inc, 21sc, 1 inc, 3sc, 1 inc, 2sc, 1 inc, 3sc, 1 inc, 10sc (74 sts)

Row 8 :

14sc, 1 inc, 3sc, 1 inc, 7sc, 1 inc, 3sc, 1 inc, 13sc, 1 inc, 3sc, 1 inc, 7sc, 1 inc, 3sc, 1 inc, 13sc (82 sts)

Info :

Now place this part of the skirt on a piece cardboard and draw round the outline. Trim and leave until later

Row 9 :

82sc blo

Row 10 to 35 :

82 sts

Info :

Cut the yarn and weave in the loose ends

β€” Overskirt :

Info :

If making in two colors, use same color as body. If making in three colors, use a third color. Make 32ch. Leave a long strand to sew on to the body. Finish all rows with 1ch and turn. From the 2nd ch from the hook

Row 1 :

31sc

Row 2 :

31sc

Row 3 :

5sc, 6 inc, 9sc, 6 inc, 5sc (43 sts)

Row 4 :

5sc, 1 inc, 2sc, 1 inc, 4sc, 1 inc, 2sc, 1 inc, 9sc, 1 inc, 2sc, 1 inc, 4sc, 1 inc, 2sc, 1 inc, 5sc (51 sts)

Row 5 :

5sc, 1 inc, 4sc, 1 inc, 4sc, 1 inc, 4sc, 1 inc, 9sc, 1 inc, 4sc, 1 inc, 4sc, 1 inc, 4sc, 1 inc, 5sc (59 sts)

Row 6 :

7sc, 1 inc, 4sc, 1 inc, 4sc, 1 inc, 4sc, 1 inc, 13sc, 1 inc, 4sc, 1 inc, 4sc, 1 inc, 4sc, 1 inc, 7sc (67 sts)

Row 7 :

11sc, 1 inc, 12sc, 1 inc, 18sc, 1 inc, 12sc, 1 inc, 11sc (71 sts)

Row 8 :

14sc, 1 inc, 10sc, 1 inc, 20sc, 1 inc, 10sc, 1 inc, 14sc (75sts)

Rows 9 to 11 :

skip the 1st stitch then make a single crochet in every stitch of the row until the last and finish with a sl.st

Info :

Cut the yarn and weave in the loose thread. Now start at one end and work a row of crab stitch. If making in two colors, work a row of sl.sts on the row of starting chains

β€” Dress Base :

Info :

In a magic circle make 6 sc

Row 1 :

6 inc (12 sts)

Row 2 :

(1sc, 1 inc) x 6 (18 sts)

Row 3 :

(2sc, 1 inc) x 6 (24 sts)

Row 4 :

(3sc, 1 inc) x 6 (30 sts)

Row 5 :

5sc, 6 inc, 9sc, 6 inc, 4sc (42 sts)

Row 6 :

5sc, 1 inc, 2sc, 1 inc, 4sc, 1 inc, 2sc, 1 inc, 9sc, 1 inc, 2sc, 1 inc, 4sc, 1 inc, 2sc, 1 inc, 4sc (50 sts)

Row 7 :

5sc, 1 inc, 4sc, 1 inc, 4sc, 1 inc, 4sc, 1 inc, 9sc, 1 inc, 4sc, 1 inc, 4sc, 1 inc, 4sc, 1 inc, 4sc (58 sts)

Row 8 :

7sc, inc, 4sc, 1 inc, 4sc, 1 inc, 4sc, 1 inc, 13sc, 1 inc, 4sc, 1 inc, 4sc, 1 inc, 4sc, 1 inc, 6sc (66 sts)

Row 9 :

11sc, 1 inc, 3sc, 1 inc, 2sc, 1 inc, 3sc, 1 inc, 21sc, 1 inc, 3sc, 1 inc, 2sc, 1 inc, 3sc, 1 inc, 10sc (74 sts)

Row 10 :

14sc, 1 inc, 3sc, 1 inc, 7sc, 1 inc, 3sc, 1 inc, 13sc, 1 inc, 3sc, 1 inc, 7sc, 1 inc, 3sc, 1 inc, 13sc (82 sts)

Row 11 :

10sc, 4hdc, 1 inc (hdc), 3hdc, 1 inc (hdc), 7hdc, 1 inc (hdc), 3hdc, 1 inc (sc), 20sc, 1 inc (sc), 3hdc, 1 inc (hdc), 7hdc, 1 inc (hdc), 3hdc, 1 inc (hdc), 4hdc, 10sc (90sts)

Row 12 :

90sc

Info :

Cut the yarn and weave in the loose ends. Lightly iron the base. Adjust the size of the cardboard to the base. The crochet base must be wider than the cardboard so you can sew it to the skirt easily. Pour some white glue onto the cardboard and stick to the base. Let dry

β€” Hair :

Info :

The first 8 rows are worked in a spiral, end them by making 1 sl.st, 1ch turn and work in the other direction. The rest of the rows will end with 1ch and turn. In magic circle make 6sc

Row 1 :

6 inc, 1ch and turn (12 sts)

Row 2 :

(1sc, 1 inc) x 6 (18 sts)

Row 3 :

(2sc, 1 inc) x 6 (24 sts)

Row 4 :

(3sc, 1 inc) x 6 (30 sts)

Row 5 :

(4sc, 1 inc) x 6 (36 sts)

Row 6 :

(5sc, 1 inc) x 6 (42 sts)

Row 7 :

(6sc, 1 inc) x 6 (48 sts)

Row 8 :

10sc (1 inc, 1sc) x 6, 11sc, (1 inc, 1sc) x 6, 3sc (60sts)

Row 9 :

54sc The 6 unworked stitches will form the fringe

Row 10 :

1sc, 1 inc, 50sc, 1 inc, 1sc (56sts)

Row 11 :

56sc

Row 12 :

1sc, 1 inc, 52sc, 1 inc, 1sc (58 sts)

Row 13 :

58sc

Row 14 :

1sc, 1 inc, 48sc, 1 sl.st (7 stitches remaining) turn

Row 15 :

Skip the 1st sl.st and make 42sc, 1sl.st (8 stitches remaining) turn

Row 16 :

skip the 1st sl.st and make 48sc, now work the sl.st that was skipped on the previous row, 1 inc, 1sc

Row 17 :

60sc and work the sl.st skipped on the previous row

Row 18 :

1sc, 1 inc, 48sc, 1sl.st Turn (9 stitches remaining)

Row 19 :

skip the 1st sl.st and work 40sc, 1sl.st (10 stitches remaining)

Row 20 :

skip the 1st sl.st, 48sc, now work the sl.st that was skipped on the previous row, 1 inc, 1sc

Row 21 :

62sc now work the sl.st that was skipped on the previous row

Row 22 :

1sc, 1inc, 58sc, 1 inc, 1sc

Row 23 :

64sc

Row 24 :

3 double decs, (2sc, 1 dec) x 11, 2sc, 3 double decs (41 sts)

Row 25 :

1 double decs, (1sc, 1 dec) x 11, 2sc, 1 double decs

Info :

Cut the yarn and weave in loose ends

β€” Lady in Waiting Type A - Sleeve :

Info :

With the color of yarn used for the body make 10ch and close the circle with a sl.st

Row 1 :

10sc

Row 2 :

10 inc (20 sts)

Row 3 :

20sc

Row 4 :

20sc

Row 5 :

(3sc, 1 dec) x 4 (16 sts)

Row 6 :

16sc

Row 7 :

(2sc, 1 dec) x 4 (12sts)

Row 8 to 20 :

12sc

Info :

Cut the yarn and weave in the starting thread. The thread at the end will be used to attach the sleeve to the body

β€” Lady in Waiting Type A - Lace for the Neckline :

Info :

Make 35ch

Row 1 :

35 sl.st

Row 2 :

35sc

Row 3 :

(1sc, 1dc, 1sc in the same stitch, 1sl.st in the next stitch) repeat until the end of the row

Info :

Now with slip stitches position yourself at the height of the initial chain and make: 3ch, skip 1ch and sl.st into the next stitch. Repeat until all the chain is covered. Weave in one of the loose ends, the other one will be use to sew it onto the body

β€” Lady in Waiting Type A - Bow :

Info :

10 ch (The last 3 count as 1dc). Work 5 rows each with 7dc. Cut the yarn and weave in the ends. Wind a strand of yarn two or three times around the middle of the loop to shape it. Use the same strand to sew it onto the hair

β€” Lady in Waiting Type B - Sleeve :

Info :

Make two the same. Make 16 chains and starting in the 2nd chain from the hook: Make 15sc, 1ch and turn

1st :

15sc flo, 1ch and turn

2nd :

15sc blo, 1ch and turn

Info :

Repeat these 2 rows 18 times. Along one side make 20sc, 1 sl.st. Close into a circle by making 1sc onto the 1st sl.st of the row and working on this chain make 20sc around the sleeve

Info :

Make 10 dec. Work 5 rows of single crochets on these 10 stitches. Cut the yarn and weave in the ends. Sew up the side of the sleeve. Using the starting yarn slightly gather the top of the sleeve. Leave until later

β€” Lady in Waiting Type B - Collar :

Info :

Make 39 chains. Starting in the 2nd chain from the hook: Work 38sc

Row 1 :

12sc, 3sc in th same stitch, 12sc, 3sc in the same stitch, 12sc (42 sts)

Row 2 :

42sc

Row 3 :

13sc, 3sc in the same stitch, 14sc, 3sc in the same stitch, 13sc (46 sts)

Row 4 :

46sc

Info :

Close and weave in the loose ends. Keep the starting thread to sew onto the body

β€” Flower :

Info :

Using a colour that will stand out on the colour of the dress and the hair make 15ch

Pattern :

Skip a chain and in the next make 1sc, 1hdc, 1sc. Repeat 7 times. Roll up the petals and make a few stitches at the back to hold them together

Assembly Instructions

  • Pull the sleeve over the arm and sew to the shoulder of the body
  • Sew the collar (Type A lace or Type B ribbed collar) around the neckline, using pins first to ensure even placement
  • Position the skirt around the waist with pins and sew securely to the body
  • Attach the overskirt over the main skirt, pinning first for proper alignment
  • Insert a wooden stick or skewer from the base through to the head for structural support to keep the figure upright
  • Attach the cardboard-backed dress base to the bottom of the skirt using slip stitches through both layers with a crochet hook
  • Stuff the skirt adequately before completely closing the base attachment
  • Position the hair piece on the head and secure with pins, then sew in place creating the face frame
  • Attach the bow (Type A) or flower to one corner of the hair fringe for decoration
  • For Type A: Sew 3 small decorative bows down the center of the body from neckline to overskirt edge

Important Notes

  • πŸ’‘Use the cardboard base and internal skewer support to ensure your Menina stands upright properly
  • πŸ’‘Pin all pieces before sewing to check positioning and ensure symmetrical placement
  • πŸ’‘The slip stitch row (Row 13) is crucial for clean arm attachment - do not skip this step
  • πŸ’‘Stuff the head and body firmly but the skirt more lightly to maintain the elegant shape
  • πŸ’‘When working the hair, pay close attention to the slip stitch instructions for proper shaping
  • πŸ’‘The dress base must be slightly larger than the cardboard to allow for sewing to the skirt
  • πŸ’‘Choose coordinating colors carefully as they dramatically affect the final appearance of your Menina

This enchanting Menina pattern celebrates the elegance of classical Spanish court figures through the art of crochet. With two distinct styling options and customizable color combinations, each Menina becomes a unique decorative masterpiece that stands proudly on display. The pattern combines structural innovation with traditional techniques, using a cardboard base and internal support to create a stable, museum-quality piece. Whether you choose the romantic Type A with its delicate lace neckline or the sophisticated Type B with ribbed sleeves, you'll create an heirloom-worthy figure that brings historical artistry into your home. 🎨 Happy crocheting! 🧢✨

You ask,

we answer.

FAQs

Can I use a different yarn weight for this pattern?

While the pattern is designed for DK/light worsted weight yarn (Schachenmayr Organic Cotton), you can substitute with similar weight yarn. Just ensure your gauge matches and be aware that using thicker or thinner yarn will change the final size of your Menina.

How do I keep the Menina standing upright?

The pattern includes two essential structural elements: a cardboard base glued inside the dress bottom and a wooden skewer or stick running from the base through to the head. Both are necessary for proper stability and to prevent leaning.

What's the difference between Type A and Type B?

Type A features a delicate lace neckline with a bow hair accessory and decorative bows down the bodice. Type B has ribbed sleeves with a gathered top and a structured collar with a flower hair accessory. Both are equally beautiful!

Can I make the dress in just two colors instead of three?

Absolutely! The pattern specifically accommodates both options. For two colors, use the body color for the overskirt. For three colors, choose a contrasting third color for the overskirt.

How do I attach the base without it showing?

Use your crochet hook to slip stitch through one loop of the base and one loop of the skirt bottom simultaneously. This creates an invisible seam when done carefully and ensures everything stays secure.

Why does the hair pattern have slip stitches in some rows?

The slip stitches create the distinctive shaped hairline and fringe that frames the Menina's face. These strategic decreases give the hair its authentic period-appropriate silhouette.