Tressa Top and Cardigan Crochet Pattern

Tressa Top and Cardigan Crochet Pattern

What is Being Made

The Tressa is a crocheted tee designed by Åsa Buchta, available in three sizes with finished bust measurements of 45½", 58½", and 71½" (115.5, 148.5, and 181.5 cm). The garment features a length of 19½" to 22¾" depending on size, making it a versatile top suitable for various body types and styling preferences. The pattern is designed as an intermediate-level crochet project, offering a balanced challenge for crafters with foundational crochet skills.

Techniques and Construction Methods

This crochet top is constructed using a motif-based approach, where individual square motifs are created and joined together to form the finished garment. The pattern begins with a magic ring technique, which creates a secure center point for working in the round. The garment is worked using repeating rounds of stitches that build outward from each motif's center. Blocking is an essential finishing technique for this project, as the gauge measurement is taken after blocking to ensure accurate fit and finished dimensions.

Stitches and Special Techniques

The Tressa pattern utilizes several fundamental crochet stitches and specialized stitch techniques:

• Single Crochet (sc): Used in the foundation round of the motif, creating a tight base of eight stitches worked into the magic ring center
• 3-dc Cluster: A special stitch that forms the primary decorative element of the motifs. This stitch is created by working three double crochet stitches together in a single stitch, leaving one loop on the hook after each double crochet, then drawing yarn through all loops to complete the cluster
• Beginning 3-dc Cluster (Beg 3-dc cluster): A variation used to start rounds, beginning with a chain-3 foundation instead of inserting into an existing stitch
• Chain Stitches (ch): Used to create spacing between clusters, with chain-2 spaces appearing between each 3-dc cluster
• Slip Stitch (sl st): Used to join rounds and create seamless transitions between rounds of work

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The Tressa pattern calls for Berroco Paperie yarn in the colorway #9075 Watercolor. Yarn quantities vary by size: size 1 requires 9 balls, size 2 requires 13 balls, and size 3 requires 16 balls. Each ball of Berroco Paperie contains 50 grams of yarn. A size I-9 (5.5 mm) crochet hook is recommended, though the pattern notes that hook size may be adjusted to obtain proper gauge.

Gauge and Sizing Information

The gauge for this project is measured as one completed motif equaling 3¼ inches by 3¼ inches (8 by 8 cm) after blocking. Achieving proper gauge is essential for accurate finished measurements and garment fit. The pattern recommends positive ease of 6 to 14 inches (15 to 35.5 cm), providing flexibility in how closely or loosely the finished garment fits the wearer. The sample shown is size 1 with approximately 11½ inches (29 cm) of positive ease, demonstrating a comfortable, relaxed fit suitable for layering or casual wear.