Berroco Lawler Vest Crochet Pattern

Berroco Lawler Crochet Vest

What is Being Made

The Berroco Lawler is an intermediate-level crochet vest designed by Mel Kennelly. This sleeveless garment is available in nine sizes, ranging from 38 inches to 70 inches in bust measurement, with corresponding lengths from 20 inches to 24 inches. The vest is designed with approximately 2–4 inches of positive ease for a comfortable, relaxed fit.

Construction Method

The Lawler vest is worked from the bottom up in a two-piece construction. The front and back panels are worked flat separately, then crocheted together at the side seams and shoulders. After the main panels are assembled, ribbing is added to finish the garment. This construction approach allows for precise shaping and control over the fit at key areas of the vest.

Techniques Used

• Bottom-up construction: Panels are built from the lower edge upward, allowing for easy length adjustments
• Flat work: Front and back panels are crocheted in rows rather than in the round
• Seaming: Pieces are joined together using crochet techniques at side seams and shoulder seams
• Lace elements: The pattern incorporates lace details for visual interest and drape
• Ribbing: Elastic ribbing is added after assembly for structure and definition

Stitches and Pattern Details

The Lawler features a distinctive Pattern Stitch that creates texture and visual appeal throughout the vest. The pattern stitch is worked over multiple rows using fundamental crochet stitches:

• Double crochet (dc): Used as the primary stitch in the pattern
• Single crochet (sc): Creates transition rows between pattern rows
• Front post treble crochet (FPtc): Adds dimensional texture by working around the post of stitches from previous rows
• Chain stitches (ch): Used for turning chains and foundational setup

The Pattern Stitch is established with a setup row worked in double crochet, then alternates between single crochet rows and rows featuring front post trebles worked around stitches below, creating a textured, ribbed appearance. Ribbing sections use a different gauge (20 stitches and 30 rows over 4 inches) compared to the main pattern stitch (17 stitches and 16 rows over 4 inches), providing structure and elasticity at the edges.

Yarn and Materials

The Lawler is designed to be worked in Berroco Spree yarn, a 50-gram ball weight. Yarn requirements range from 8 balls for the smallest size (38 inches) to 17 balls for the largest size (70 inches). The pattern calls for color #94112 Coral. A size 7 US (4.5 mm) crochet hook is recommended to achieve the correct gauge, though the pattern notes that the appropriate hook size may vary based on individual tension. Gauge should be checked after blocking to ensure accurate finished measurements, as blocking significantly affects the final dimensions of the crocheted fabric.

The pattern is presented as a downloadable PDF format, allowing crafters to access the complete instructions digitally. Berroco recommends using the specified yarn to achieve the intended results, though substitutions may be possible with careful gauge matching.