Been wondering what to do with all those bits of leftover yarn? 50m here, half a skein there? Well wonder no more! This pattern was designed to use up leftover DK yarn – to turn your stash into a treasure!!
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The Summer Solstice top is a lightweight cotton geometric summer top which can be worn two ways – with the long side at the front or back. Use as over a bikini on the beach or pair it with a pair of light trousers, shorts or a summer skirt to enjoy the hazy crazy days of mid-summer!
But first… here’s a little history behind it!
Last winter I brought out a Free Crochet Dress Pattern called the Winter Solstice Dress. It was worked from side-to-side using Aran yarn and was my first experiment in dress design.
It seemed only fitting that I bought out a contrasting pattern to oppose the Winter Solstice Dress. I decided that I would work with the same yarn weight and ensure the design was worked side to side so that there was at least some commonality between the two!
The Summer Solstice Top you see here was the result! I worked with cotton yarn instead of wool and, though it would be easy to adjust the pattern to make this as a dress, I stuck with a top.
As with all my patterns, I like them to be as flexible as possible so that everyone can get the most out of them. For this reason, I made the top longer on one side than the other and the shape is reversible.
There are some days when I want to hide my bum without hiding my waist, so I can wear this long side at the back. This would be great as a beach cover or paired with some denim shorts.
Other days I want more cover at the front than the back so can flip it around. Again, this is a great way to show off your waist but still get that oversized, comfy feel in a top – without feeling like you’re wearing a sack!
I’ll be honest, just like with the Dress (which I nicknamed the Hell dress because I had to remake it so many times!), I wasn’t quite sure if this construction method and design style was going to work out. But after a few revisions, I’m super happy with it!
Read on to find out more about the materials and skill level needed (Spoiler… it’s simple!!)
This post contains affiliate links. This means if you click a link to a product and go on to make a purchase, I receive a small percentage of the sale at no extra cost to you. You can read my full affiliate disclosure here
This is a fairly easy pattern, mostly using double crochet (UK treble) and chain stitches with simple increases and decreases.
The top is worked in two pieces from side to side and joined at the centre with the neckline, hem and sleeve cuffs added afterwards.
A photo tutorial and schematics for the construction are included as well as a schematic showing finished measurements in all sizes.
The design uses a simple pattern repeat which is charted in addition to the written instructions.
If you’re a wanting to make a simple, quick summer garment pattern then this could be what you’re looking for!
I have used Drops Paris in Opal Green and Light Pink for the version you see pictured. This is an aran weight cotton yarn.
You will need between around 600-1000m depending on the size you make. (Yarn requirements are detailed in the pattern)
Any aran / worsted weight yarn would work for this pattern (though I recommend cotton to give it the right drape). The sweater is oversized so there is quite a bit of margin for variance on gauge.
You will need a 5mm crochet hook. My preference for hooks is clover amour but I know this is a really personal choice!
The pattern is written for sizes XS-3X and approximate finished measurements and gauge information are given within the pattern.
The pattern is written using US crochet terms with UK equivalents given in the abbreviations.
I hope you enjoy this pattern and, as always don’t forget to share using the buttons below or tag me on Instagram @doraexplored, or use #hookmehappy. I’d love to see and share your efforts!
Happy hooking
Dx
You may sell what you make from this pattern but please credit me as the designer at doradoes.co.uk. The pattern is for personal use only and may not be shared or reproduced without prior written consent. Photos may be shared with credit. Copyright Dora Does 2019.
This design was inspired by my love of geometry and as a tribute to so many of the beautiful crochet works of the 60s and 70s.
The pattern includes instructions both for a sweater and a dress. Worked from the top down, both items are worked the same to the waist so you can always decide which one to make as you go!
This post contains affiliate links (marked aff). This means if you click a link to a product and go on to make a purchase, I receive a small percentage of the sale at no extra cost to you. You can read my full affiliate disclosure policy here
The pattern is worked using DK yarn and a 4mm hook. The item pictured uses Rico Cotton soft DK (aff) in 50g balls, but most DK yarns which meet gauge can be used.
Depending on you chosen size, you will need 8-13 balls (400 – 650g / 890 – 1580m) for the sweater and 11 – 19 balls (550 – 950g / 1350 – 2300m) for the dress.
This pattern would suit intermediate crocheters, or confident beginners. Simple stitches and a 4 row pattern repeat is are used throughout. Decreasing and increasing is required for the sleeves and dress respectively.
Foundation chains are used to start the garment (instructions and modifications are given).
Both pattern are written for sizes XS-3X. Approximate finished measurements, including a schematic, and gauge information are given within the pattern. It is simple to adjust the length of the sleeves, sweater or dress.
The pattern is written using US crochet terms.
I hope you enjoy the pattern and, as always don’t forget to tag me on Instagram @doraexplored, or use #tributesweater / #tributedress or #hookmehappy. I’d love to see and share your efforts!
Happy Hooking
Dx
(C) DoraDoes 2019. You may sell what you make from my patterns, but please credit me as the designer at doradoes.co.uk. The pattern is for personal use only and may not be shared. My photos may be shared with credit
Rainbow smiles is a top down raglan sweater with a gentle v-neck. Made with simple stitches, it is close fitting with a chevron burst of rainbow colour.
Back during my 2018 visit to Yarndale, I picked up a set of sparkly rainbow 7 mini skeins from Eden Cottage yarns. I had been saving them for ‘something special’ (we all have that special yarn don’t we!) and began to shape the idea of a chevron rainbow sweater. The Rainbow smiles sweater was the result!
Download Rainbow Smiles now from Ravelry, Love Crochet or Etsy
This is a great pattern for beginners looking to try their first garment.
You will need to know how to work basic crochet stitches, basic increases and decreases, work in the round and count!
Rainbow Smiles uses simple stitches all the way through and because it is worked using the top down method, it has no seaming.
Learn more about the advantages of top down method in this post demystifying top down crochet garment making.
The pattern calls for use of foundation chains (which are explained), but modifications are given if you prefer to work into a starting chain rather than use the foundation row technique
Using place markers (which translates as scraps of yarn for me!) is encouraged and the pattern guides you through where to put them
Hook: 4mm (US G/6)
Yarn:830-1500m 4ply / fingering yarn in total (approx 300g -500g depending on fibre)
The sweater pictured used Drops Nord (4ply) in Pearl Grey mix for the main colour (4, 4, 4, 5, 6, 6, 7 x 50g balls)
For the coloured yarn: As mentioned, I used my special Eden Cottage Yarns Nateby 4 ply mini, Rainbow Fade series but any coloured yarn of a similar weight will work. You will need less than 10-20g / 40- 80m of each colour depending on size selected.
Yarn Substitution Options: Any lightweight / 4 ply / sport or sock weight yarn which meets gauge can be used for this sweater. I would recommend wool / alpaca, acrylic or blend yarns but would probably avoid 100% cotton as the weight may cause additional stretch. A cotton blend should be fine!
You will also need: 5 Place Markers or scraps of yarn for corners, pins and a blocking board
The sweater is designed to be close fitting and the pattern is written in sizes XS through to 3X (bust 74-134cm)
However, because the pattern uses the top down method, you can easily adjust the fit as you go. I have added comments and guidance throughout the pattern on how you might tailor your sweater to the fit that is exactly right for you
The gauge is 15sts x 11rows in 10cm x 10cm of double crochet (US) lightly blocked using a 4mm hook or size needed to obtain tension.
I hope you enjoy the pattern and, as always don’t forget to tag me on Instagram @doraexplored, or use #rainbowsmiles or #hookmehappy. I’d love to see and share your efforts!
Happy hooking
Dx
(C) DoraDoes 2019. You may sell what you make from my patterns, but please credit me as the designer at doradoes.co.uk. The pattern is for personal use only and may not be shared. My photos may be shared with credit
Perfect for newer crocheters looking to make their first garment, this is the first release in association with the My Crochet Wardrobe Facebook group (open to anyone to join!). This group is aimed at demystifying the crochet garment making process.
You can learn more about it here
This post contains affiliate links. You can read my full affiliate disclosure policy here
The Cosy Up Sweater does exactly what it says on the tin. Made with a soft chunky yarn, it uses simple stitches to create a cosy fit sweater with a tall roll neck for extra protection against the cold. As if that wasn’t cosy enough, the long cuffs have thumb holes to add that extra feeling of comfort
This is the perfect jumper for a winter afternoon walk or just to get cosy on the sofa with your favourite book!
This is easy level with simple shaping and minimal seaming. The pattern uses simple stitches and easy decreases. The neck, cuffs and hem are worked in the back loop only.
The pattern is written using US Crochet Terms.
8mm Hook750-1400m / 6-10 balls of We are Knitters The Petite Wool (affiliate) (depending on your chosen size) or equivalent chunky yarn which meets gauge.
750-1400m / 6-10 balls of We are Knitters The Petite Wool (affiliate) (depending on your chosen size) or equivalent chunky yarn which meets gauge.
The pattern is written is sizes XS, S, M, L, 1X, 2X, 3X with a breakdown of bust and length measurements and a schematic given in the pattern to assist your size choice.
I hope you enjoy the pattern and, as always don’t forget to tag me on Instagram @doraexplored, or use #hookmehappy. I’d love to see and share your efforts!
Happy hooking
Dx
(C) DoraDoes 2018. You may sell what you make from my patterns, but please credit me as the designer at doradoes.co.uk. The pattern is for personal use only and may not be shared. My photos may be shared with credit.
This lovely cosy winter sweater is perfect to pair with skinny jeans, long skirts or over the top of a jumpsuit when you need something extra!
The sweater combines a wide cropped body with closer fitting sleeves, so it will still fit under your coat, and a cosy roll neck to keep the wind at bay.
The pattern uses chunky yarn to create two columns of twisted cables which will keep you on the straight and narrow! This is a relatively quick project and a great introduction to working with cables (post stitches).
This post contains affiliate links. You can read my full affiliate disclosure policy here
This is easy to intermediate level with simple seaming. It uses the extended single crochet stitch (which is simple to pick up and explained in full in the pattern) and front and back post stitches to create the cables.
The neck, cuffs and hem are worked in the back loop only.
8mm Hook, or size required to meet gauge.
650-1050m (5-8 balls) of We are Knitters The Petite Wool(aff) (depending on your chosen size) or equivalent chunky yarn which meets gauge.
This pattern would work with other chunky yarns which meet gauge.
The pattern is written is sizes XS, S, M, L, 1X, 2X, 3X with a breakdown of bust and length measurements and a schematic given in the pattern to assist your size choice.
I hope you enjoy the pattern and, as always don’t forget to tag me on Instagram @doraexplored, or use #hookmehappy. I’d love to see and share your efforts!
Happy Hooking
Dx
You may sell what you make from this pattern but the pattern is for personal use only and may not be shared or reproduced without prior written consent. Photos may be shared with credit.
Copyright Dora Does 2018
Everyone loves an underdog right?
This cardigan uses a simple timeless stitch pattern then throws in some extra personality with it’s bulb sleeves and phone-sized pockets – yes – it has pockets!
This is one of those cardis which, just like the underdog, might be easy to overlook because of its simplicity, but in reality it will adapt go with anything and will quickly become a wardrobe favourite.
This post contains affiliate links. You can read my full affiliate disclosure policy here
This cardigan is great for beginners with some experience. It uses a simple stitch pattern with simple decreases.
The body is made in a single piece and the sleeves constructed separately and sewn on.
5mm crochet hook and 1350-1960 aran weight yarn.
For the item pictured, I used Knitcraft Aran Yarn in light blue from hobbycraft (aff)
Any aran yarn which meets the gauge can be used for this cardigan
The pattern is written in 4 sizes S, M, L, 1/2X.
Approximate measurements for each size are listed in the pattern to help you choose which size to make.
The pattern is written using US Crochet terms and is delivered via a PDF Download
I hope you enjoy the pattern and, as always don’t forget to tag me on Instagram @doraexplored, or use #hookmehappy. I’d love to see and share your efforts!
Happy Hooking
Dx
You may sell what you make from this pattern but the pattern is for personal use only and may not be shared or reproduced without prior written consent. Photos may be shared with credit.
Copyright Dora Does 2018
The Free Flow sweater is designed to let you do exactly that!
It’s a loose fitting, slouchy sweater which combines comfort and elegance. With 3/4 length kimono sleeves, the sweater can be worn casually dropped off one shoulder, or in a wide boat-neck style.
This is a favourite of mine to wear to yoga classes as it keeps me warm before the exercise heats me up and is perfect to throw on during cool down. It even allows me to stop off for a drink after class without feeling like I’m in in full on gym gear!
The simple T shaped design uses an easy textured stitch pattern with 4 ply / sport weight yarn to give it that soft drape.
The pattern is available to download from Ravelry, Etsy or Love Crochet
This sweater is aimed at those who may never have crocheted a sweater before. It was intentionally designed with an easy stitch repeat and a super simple construction, using two T shaped panels. The loose fit and stretchy nature of the fabric allows room for variation in tension.
The pattern uses foundation chains and includes instructions and a video tutorial showing to help those who are less familiar with the technique. Modifications are also given to work into chains.
This sweater is aimed at those who may never have crocheted a sweater before. It was intentionally designed with an easy stitch repeat and a super simple construction, using two T shaped panels. The loose fit and stretchy nature of the fabric allows room for variation in tension.
The pattern uses foundation chains and includes instructions and a video tutorial showing to help those who are less familiar with the technique. Modifications are also given to work into chains.
The pattern is written in sizes XS, S, M, L, 1X, 2X, 3X (bust measurements from 96-156cm) and detailed measurements and a schematic are given in the pattern.
I hope you enjoy the pattern and, as always don’t forget to tag me on Instagram @doraexplored, or use #hookmehappy. I’d love to see and share your efforts!
Happy hooking
Dx
(C) DoraDoes 2018. You may sell what you make from my patterns, but please credit me as the designer at doradoes.co.uk. The pattern is for personal use only and may not be shared. My photos may be shared with credit.
The crochet pattern for the Cloud Cover Roll-neck sweater is here just as the blue skies turn white and grey. This light fluffy and cosy roll neck sweater is perfect for keeping you snug on such cloudy days. It’s deceptively warm for its light weight and is oversized to make it super comfy and huggable!
The Cloud Cover Crochet Sweater has the fluffy look of mohair (thanks to the Brushed Alpaca yarn from Drops), but because it’s worked with Aran yarn, it comes together much more quickly than if working with traditional lace weight mohair yarn.
The sweater is worked in simple stitches with a large ribbed roll neck and long cuffs you can roll back or leave long. The perfect transitional sweater for when the clouds cover the sun.
This is a simple pattern using half double crochet throughout, working in the back loops for the ribbing. You will create the body pieces flat and the sleeves in the round.
This would make a great first garment for the newer crocheter and a simple make for those with more experience.
Made using a 5mm hook and Drops Brushed Alpaca silk, the yarn has a lovely fluffy halo which makes it very lightweight but warm.
This sweater can also be made in any aran / worsted weight or even a heavier dk yarn which meets the gauge (always check your gauge!).
More solid yarns will make a chunkier sweater with a different drape.
The sweater is available in sizes XS-3X with suggestions to alter sleeve length.
Approximate finished sizes and a schematic are given in the pattern.
I hope you enjoy the pattern and, as always don’t forget to tag me in Instagram @doraexplored, or use #hookmehappy. I’d love to see and share your efforts!
Happy hooking
Dx
P.S. Because I always have to mess around…
(C) DoraDoes 2018. You may sell what you make from my patterns, but please credit me as the designer at doradoes.co.uk. The pattern is for personal use only and may not be shared. My photos may be shared with credit.
I love simplicity and stripes. My favourite top in the world is a really old white jersey with black stripes. I was wearing it recently and suddenly wondered why I had never tried to recreate it in crochet. So that’s exactly what I did!
Life is better when you keep it simple!
You can download the pattern fro Etsy, Love Crochet or Ravelry
This post may contain affiliate links which means if you follow the link and go on to make purchase then I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These links are marked with (aff) and you can read my full affiliate disclosure here
In honour of it’s name, this pattern uses simple stitches to create an elegant, wearable crochet top.
It’s suitable for beginners with some experience (half double crochet, back/front loop half double crochet, decreasing).
Hook: 4.5mm (or to achieve gauge)
Yarn: Cotton / Cotton blend DK yarn is recommended. Item pictured uses King Cole Bamboo Cotton DK (aff). Depending on size, approx 690 – 1300 yards in White, 200-360 Black
The pattern is written in US terms and grades to include sizes XS-3X
Measurements of each size are provided in the pattern to help you choose which size best suits.
The top is close fitting with 3/4 length sleeves.
Pattern download links: Etsy, Ravelry, or Love Crochet
(C) DoraDoes 2018. You may sell what you make from my patterns, but please credit me as the designer at doradoes.co.uk. The pattern is for personal use only and may not be shared. My photos may be shared with credit.
Pattern Links: Ravelry, Etsy, Craftsy, Love crochet
Introducing the Upside-Down Crochet Jumper pattern. I’ve been sucked into Stranger Things just like everyone else. I’ve also been wanting to create a cosy sweater which I simply don’t want to take off all winter. Put those two together and you have the Upside-Down Pullover.
This post may contain affiliate links which means if you follow the link and go on to make purchase then I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These links are marked with (aff) and you can read my full affiliate disclosure here
This project is suitable for an advanced beginner and would make an ideal first garment project. Using basic stitches (in US terms) there is also a tutorial to help make the cuff and hem which you can see on this post.
The pattern includes picture guides to aid with construction and a video tutorial showing how to create the ribbing on the cuffs, hem and neck line.
This pattern uses from 850yds (XS/S) to 1300yds (X1/X2) Aran / Heavy worsted / 10ply Yarn and a 6mm hook.
The jumper pictured uses just under 5 balls of the Leader of the Pac Yarn (aff) available from Hobbycraft. It’s a beautiful Aplaca blend which is a dream to work with.
The pattern is available in sizes XS/S, M, L and X1/X2 all written out separately.
The approximate measurements of all the sizes are detailed in the pattern along with gauge information.
The stitch pattern in the body is worked one way and in the sleeves is worked the other – but which one is upside-down?
The style is lose but not oversized and the shape would fit right into the 80s! Plus it’s completely unisex.
I hope you enjoy this pattern, and as always, don’t forget to tag me in your finished makes! Nothing makes me happier than seeing my designs brought to life by others. I love the colour choices and personal touches you add to the patterns!
On Instagram, you can use the hashtag #HookMeHappy or just tag @doradexplored. You can tweet me your pictures, or add your them to my Facebook page. And if socials aren’t your thing, feel free to email me your efforts. It really does make my day! I’m also a huge fan of Pinterest so if you like my patterns I’d love it if you pin them, or visit my Pinterest page which showcases some wonderful inspirational crochet patterns – the talent out there blows my mind!
Until next time.
Happy Hooking
Dx
(C) DoraDoes 2018. You may sell what you make from my patterns, but please credit me as the designer. The pattern is for personal use only and may not be shared. My photos may be shared with credit.
This post may contain affiliate links (my full affiliate disclosure is here).
This super comfy crochet sweater makes a great versatile addition to your wardrobe. Pair it with a light vest top in the summer or a long sleeved roll neck jersey top on cooler days.
It works up really quickly and would make a great gift!
The pdf crochet patten can be downloaded on: Etsy, Ravelry or Craftsy
This pattern suits a beginner with some experience. It is ideal for beginners or improvers to try their first garment or is a lovely quick project for those with more experience. It’s loose fit is very forgiving!
The pattern does use the foundation double crochet stitch (it also offers a beginner modification if you’re not comfortable with the foundation stitches). You can find a tutorial for the foundation double crochet stitch on my youtube channel along with various other tutorials.
5.5mm / Size I hook
700yds / 300g of Worsted or Aran Weight Yarn
The pattern written for sizes S/M, M/L, 1X/2X and 3X with measurements detailed in the PDF.
I know. It’s a slightly odd named pattern but if you close-up on the pattern, the crochet cables look a little like towers and because of the flow of the stitch they lean a little to the side which is what inspired the name, that and the lovely slouchy fit.
This sweater is super comfy and loose fitting, perfect for those not-quite-summer days where you want to laze around. Equally you can team it with a long sleeved roll neck to add a cosy extra layer once you hit the definitely-not-summer days!
I hope you enjoy this pattern, and as always, don’t forget to tag me in your finished makes! Nothing makes me happier than seeing my designs brought to life by others. I love the colour choices and personal touches you add to the patterns!
On Instagram, you can use the hashtag #HookMeHappy or just tag @doradexplored. You can tweet me your pictures, or add your them to my Facebook page. And if socials aren’t your thing, feel free to email me your efforts. It really does make my day! I’m also a huge fan of Pinterest so if you like my patterns I’d love it if you pin them, or visit my Pinterest page which showcases some wonderful inspirational crochet patterns – the talent out there blows my mind!
Until next time.
Happy Hooking
Dx
This post may contain affiliate links (my full affiliate disclosure is here).
(C) DoraDoes 2018. You may sell what you make from my patterns, but please credit me as the designer. The pattern is for personal use only and may not be shared. My photos may be shared with credit.
