Pythagoras Pullover Crochet Pattern

Pythagoras Pullover in Berroco Vintage DK

What is Being Made

The Pythagoras Pullover is a drop-shoulder crochet pullover designed by Mel Kennelly. This intermediate-level garment is available in nine sizes ranging from 36" to 72" bust measurement, with finished lengths between 22½" and 26" depending on size. The pullover is constructed flat in separate pieces and then seamed together, making it an accessible project for crocheters with some experience.

Construction and Design Details

This pullover features a drop-shoulder silhouette, which creates a relaxed, comfortable fit. The garment is worked using a flat construction method rather than in the round, allowing for easier stitch counting and adjustments during the building process. The recommended positive ease is approximately 2–4 inches, meaning the finished garment should be slightly larger than your actual bust measurement for comfortable wear. The design incorporates a two-color colorwork pattern using contrasting yarn colors.

Crochet Stitches and Techniques

The Pythagoras Pullover uses a specialized pattern stitch that combines single crochet and double crochet stitches in an alternating sequence. The pattern includes a special abbreviation, EDc2tog (End Double Crochet 2 Together), which is a decrease technique used to shape the garment. The stitch pattern involves skipping chains and working (sc, dc) combinations into the same stitch, creating a textured, dimensional fabric. This combination of basic and intermediate stitches makes the project suitable for crocheters moving beyond simple single or double crochet projects.

Yarn and Materials

The Pythagoras Pullover is designed to be made with Berroco Vintage DK yarn, a worsted-weight yarn sold in 100-gram hanks. The pattern calls for two colors: #2107 Cracked Pepper (C1) and #2153 Blue Note (C2). Yarn quantities vary by size, ranging from 4–6 hanks of the primary color and 3–5 hanks of the secondary color. A size G-6 (4 mm) crochet hook is recommended, or a size that achieves the required gauge. A tapestry needle is also needed for seaming the pieces together after completion.

Gauge and Blocking

The required gauge for this project is 16 stitches and 13 rows = 4 inches (10 cm) in Pattern Stitch. Gauge is measured after blocking, which is an important step for achieving accurate finished measurements. The pattern emphasizes the importance of checking gauge before beginning to ensure that your finished garment matches the intended dimensions.

Size Range and Fit

• Sizes available: (36, 40, 44) [48, 52, 56, 60] {64, 68, 72} inches bust
• Finished bust measurements: (91.5, 101.5, 112) [122, 132, 142, 152.5] {162.5, 172.5, 183} centimeters
• Finished lengths: (22½, 24, 24) [25, 25, 25, 25] {26, 26, 26} inches
• Recommended positive ease: 2–4 inches (5–10 cm)

Pattern Notes

The pattern is presented in downloadable PDF format and includes detailed construction notes specific to the drop-shoulder design. The design was created by Mel Kennelly and is classified as an intermediate skill level, making it appropriate for crocheters who have mastered basic stitches and are ready to work with color changes and specialized decrease techniques. The pattern is maintained by Berroco and updated when corrections are identified.