Crochet

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Crochet Method – Or How To Construct An Amazing Crocheted Dress

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cro motif dress 0614

In that serendipitous way one discovers amazing finds on the internet while looking for something entirely different, I found this totally amazing dress that is accompanied with not a pattern, but the method by which its designer created it.  This is a cross between freeform crochet and haute couture, crochet style.

The designer, Ivelise Barssotti, is a very adventurous and accomplished crocheter.  That much is clear immediately upon viewing her work.  Her blog is not written in English, but translates pretty well via the translate option on the right side of the screen.

To construct this dress, Ivelise used Irish crochet motifs, worked one by one separately (not unlike freeform scrumbles), then placed these on  a tissue background before joining them on a sort of mesh background.  The outcome is amazing!  But, the takeaway here is that, using her method rather than a specific pattern, any adventurous crocheter could create a similar piece.

Following all the links in Ivelise’s article is akin to taking a master class in motif construction and assembly.  Now I understand what my talented sewing and crochet friend who is a structural engineer was talking about when she told me that sewing and crocheting are just smaller versions of the buildings she designs or studies.

There is so much information and eye candy on Ivelise’s blog that you’ll need to block out some time to get lost there, poke in all the corners, and see all there is to see.  Happy hunting!

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Comments

  2. Hi there! Thank you very much for your kind words, about my crochet work… I am very happy to see that is being admired by other people.. thank you! Greetings from Brazil!!!

Have you read?

Cropped Chunky Granny Stitch Cardigan Crochet Pattern

There is something about a chunky granny stitch cardigan that just feels instantly wearable, isn’t there? It has that lovely handmade texture we all adore, but it still looks modern enough to throw on with jeans, wide-leg pants, a simple dress, or, if you are feeling a little festival-ready, a floaty boho skirt and boots.

This boho granny stitch cropped cardigan crochet pattern has that perfect relaxed handmade look without feeling too oversized or shapeless. The cropped length keeps it flattering, while the open granny-style stitch gives it plenty of drape and texture. I especially love it worked in a soft sage green, because it gives the whole design a calm, earthy, slightly vintage feel without looking dated.

The design features a boxy cropped body, open front styling, wide sleeves, and a textured granny-style stitch pattern that gives the cardigan its statement look. It is the kind of crochet cardigan that looks impressive but still feels approachable if you are comfortable with basic crochet stitches and joining simple garment pieces together.

This is a lovely project for crocheters who want to move beyond scarves and blankets but are not quite ready for complicated shaping. The beauty of this style is that the relaxed fit is forgiving, which makes it a good first wearable project if you have been wanting to dip your toe into crochet clothing.

The chunky texture is also a bonus for impatient crocheters — and yes, I am raising my hand here. There is nothing worse than starting a cardigan and feeling like you have committed to a six-month relationship with one sleeve. This type of open stitch pattern builds quickly and gives you that satisfying “oh look, it’s actually becoming a cardigan” feeling fairly early on.

For yarn, I would choose something soft but structured enough to hold the stitch definition. A chunky or bulky yarn in cotton blend, acrylic blend, or wool blend would work beautifully depending on the season. Sage green gives it that boho handmade look, but this pattern would also be gorgeous in oatmeal, rust, denim blue, cream, mushroom brown, or a soft dusty rose.

If you are styling it for a modern boho look, pair it with sage wide-leg pants, a simple white tank, layered necklaces, and a crossbody bag. For cooler months, it would also look lovely over a fitted long-sleeve tee with jeans and ankle boots.

What I Like About This Pattern

The cropped length makes it feel fresh and wearable.

The granny stitch texture gives it a beautiful handmade look.

The open-front shape means there is no fussing with buttons or closures.

The wide sleeves add a relaxed bohemian feel.

It is a great project for crocheters who want a wearable garment without too much shaping.

Skill Level

I would place this as an advanced beginner to intermediate crochet pattern, depending on how confident you are with garment construction. The stitching itself appears beginner-friendly if you already know the basics, but assembling a cardigan and keeping your gauge consistent does require a little patience.

If you are new to crochet garments, take your measurements before starting, check gauge properly, and don’t skip blocking. I know blocking is one of those things we all pretend we are going to do “later,” but with a cardigan like this, it really helps the stitches relax and the edges sit nicely.