Nikkim Tee

Nikkim Tee Crochet Pattern by Annelies Baes

What is Being Made

The Nikkim Tee is a summer crochet top designed by independent designer Annelies Baes. This flattering garment is constructed from two squares of fabric joined together to create a cohesive piece. The design features a distinctive waterfall neckline and shoulders with a lovely slightly curved shape, making it an elegant choice for warm weather wear. The pattern is available in 6 sizes, accommodating a range of fit preferences.

Crochet Techniques and Construction

This intermediate-level crochet project employs a straightforward construction method that combines geometric fabric squares to achieve its flattering silhouette. The pattern uses a combination of fundamental and decorative crochet techniques to build structure and visual interest. The waterfall neckline is created through the strategic arrangement of the two fabric squares, while the curved shoulder shaping is achieved through careful stitch placement and decreasing.

The pattern utilizes repetitive rows to build the fabric efficiently. Rows 3 through 9 repeat Row 2, allowing crafters to establish a consistent rhythm and pattern repeat. This methodical approach makes the project manageable for intermediate-level crocheters while still delivering a sophisticated finished garment.

Stitches Used

The Nikkim Tee incorporates several essential crochet stitches to create its textured and structured design:

• Chain (ch) – the foundation stitch used to create the base of the pattern
• Double crochet (dc) – a versatile mid-height stitch that forms much of the fabric
• Treble crochet (tr) – a taller stitch used for specific design elements
• Slip stitch (slst) – used for joining rounds and securing stitches
• Shell stitch – a decorative special stitch composed of 4 treble crochets, 1 chain, and 1 treble crochet worked into the chain-space of the previous row's shell, creating a pretty scalloped or fan-like texture

Yarn and Materials

The pattern calls for Vinnis Colours Nikkim yarn, a 100% hand-dyed cotton yarn. Each 50-gram ball provides 119 meters or 130 yards of yardage. The recommended colorways are shade 590 Peacock and shade 591 Kingfisher, though exact yarn amounts vary depending on which of the 6 sizes you are making (refer to the sizing overview for specific yardage requirements).

A 4 mm crochet hook is recommended to achieve the correct gauge, though alternative hook sizes may be used if adjusted to maintain proper tension and finished measurements. Additional materials needed include scissors, a tapestry needle for weaving in ends, pins, a mat for blocking, and stitch markers to track pattern repeats and construction points.

Gauge

Achieving proper gauge is essential for this project to fit correctly. In corner-to-corner stitch (c2c-st), the gauge is 6.25 blocks wide and 6.25 blocks high over a 10 x 10 cm (4 inch) square. When working in the shell stitch pattern, the gauge is 10 x 10 cm (4 inches). Always swatch and measure your gauge before beginning to ensure your finished Nikkim Tee matches the intended dimensions.