Berroco Top Crochet Pattern

Berroco Andaman Crochet Top

What is Being Made

The Andaman is an intermediate-level crochet top designed by Alison Green. This garment is a versatile pullover-style top worked in one continuous piece, starting from the lower back edge and progressing upward to the shoulders, with fronts then worked downward from the shoulders to the lower front edge. The construction method creates a seamless integration of back and front sections, with sides sewn together to leave strategic openings for armholes and a split hem design. The sizing is notably forgiving, fitting approximately sizes XS through 5X across four size options with back widths ranging from 17 inches to 33 inches.

Crochet Techniques Used

This intermediate project employs several key crochet construction techniques to achieve its finished design. The garment is worked in one piece rather than separate components, demonstrating advanced garment construction planning. The sides are sewn rather than crocheted together, allowing for precise armhole placement and the creation of a split hem detail. A Romanian cord technique is used to create a tie for the waist, adding both functional and decorative elements to the design. The pattern requires attention to gauge measurement after blocking, as this affects the final garment dimensions and fit.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The Andaman utilizes a combination of fundamental and decorative crochet stitches to create its textured appearance. Double crochet (dc) forms the primary structural stitch, while single crochet (sc) adds definition and texture variation. Chain stitches (ch) are used extensively, including ch-1 spaces and ch-4 spaces that create open, lacy sections within the pattern. Three-double-crochet clusters (3-dc cluster) provide dimensional texture and visual interest. The stitch pattern is worked with careful attention to spacing, as the gauge is measured by counting each double crochet and chain-1 space as individual stitches, requiring 24 stitches and 8 rows to equal 4 inches when worked with the larger hook.

Materials: Yarn and Tools

The Andaman pattern calls for Berroco Seaspun yarn, a 50-gram ball weight, with yardage requirements varying by size: 6 balls for the smallest size, 8 balls for medium sizes, 10 balls for larger sizes, and 12 balls for the largest size. The specified colorway is #10304 Bright. Two crochet hooks are required: a size D (3.25 mm) hook and a size 7 (4.5 mm) hook, or the size needed to obtain proper gauge. The larger size 7 hook is used for the main pattern stitch. Additional notions include stitch markers to track pattern repeats and construction points. Proper gauge measurement after blocking is emphasized as essential for accurate finished measurements and proper fit.

Finished Measurements and Sizing

• Size 1 (XS–S): Back width 17 inches (43 cm), Length 28 inches (71 cm)
• Size 2 (M–XL): Back width 22 inches (56 cm), Length 28 inches (71 cm)
• Size 3 (2X–3X): Back width 27½ inches (70 cm), Length 30½ inches (77.5 cm)
• Size 4 (4X–5X): Back width 33 inches (84 cm), Length 30½ inches (77.5 cm)

The pattern sample shown is the size 2 option with a 22-inch back width.