Bristlefront Crochet Pattern

Bristlefront Crochet Pullover

What is Being Made

The Bristlefront is a crochet pullover sweater designed by Mel Kennelly, available in twelve sizes ranging from extra-small (31½" bust) to 3XL (71" bust). This intermediate-level garment is constructed as a single piece worked sideways, offering a modern approach to sweater construction that minimizes seaming while creating a cohesive garment structure.

Construction Method

The Bristlefront employs a sideways construction technique, meaning the sweater is worked horizontally rather than from top to bottom or bottom to top. The pattern begins with the right sleeve and continues in one continuous piece. After the main body is completed, the garment is folded and seamed at the sides and underarms to create the finished pullover shape. This construction method allows for precise shaping and ease placement throughout the garment.

Crochet Stitches and Techniques

The primary stitch used in the Bristlefront is double crochet (dc), which creates a fabric with good drape and structure suitable for a pullover silhouette. The pattern incorporates basic crochet fundamentals including chain stitches for foundation and turning chains. Stitch markers are recommended to help track pattern repeats and shaping increases or decreases throughout the construction process.

Yarn and Materials

The Bristlefront is designed to be worked in Berroco Iris, a yarn that comes in 100-gram hanks. The featured colorway shown in the pattern is #11621 Beachside. Yardage requirements vary by size, ranging from 4 hanks for the smallest size to 11 hanks for the largest size. A size 7 (4.5 mm) crochet hook is used to achieve the specified gauge, though hook size may be adjusted to obtain proper gauge. Additional notions include a tapestry needle for weaving in ends and removable stitch markers for tracking pattern progress.

Gauge and Fit

The pattern is worked to a gauge of 15 double crochets and 9 rows over 4 inches (10 cm) when measured in double crochet stitch after blocking. Achieving accurate gauge is essential for proper fit. The Bristlefront is designed with positive ease, with recommended ease of approximately 4–6 inches (10–15 cm). The sample shown is size 4 (42½" bust) modeled with approximately 5 inches (12 cm) of positive ease.

Finished Measurements

• Bust measurements: Sizes range from 31½" to 71" (80 cm to 180.5 cm)
• Length measurements: Sizes range from 16" to 22" (40.5 cm to 56 cm)

Skill Level

The Bristlefront is rated as an intermediate crochet project, making it suitable for crocheters who have mastered basic stitches and are ready to tackle garment construction with shaping and seaming.