Murchadh

Murchadh Crochet Top by Caroline Murphy

What is Being Made

Murchadh is a crocheted top designed by Caroline Murphy. This downloadable PDF pattern creates a finished garment measuring 21cm (8.25 inches) in length and 50.75cm (20 inches) in width. The design uses a modular construction approach, building the piece from individual granny squares that are joined together to form the complete top.

Crochet Techniques and Construction

The Murchadh top employs fundamental crochet techniques suitable for intermediate-level crafters. The garment is constructed using a granny square method, a classic modular approach where individual squares are worked separately and then assembled. This technique offers flexibility in construction and is ideal for managing yarn color changes throughout the piece.

The pattern begins with a magic ring or chain ring foundation, where a chain of four stitches is joined with a slip stitch to form a circle. Subsequent rounds are worked outward from this central point, with contrast yarn colors introduced to create visual interest and definition between rounds. The modular nature of this construction allows crafters to work in manageable sections before joining them into the final garment.

Stitches Used

The Murchadh pattern utilizes several fundamental crochet stitches written in American crochet terminology:

• Chain stitch (ch) – the foundation stitch used to create base rings and spacing between other stitches
• Double crochet (dc) – the primary stitch used throughout the granny square construction, providing structure and density
• Single crochet (sc) – used for finishing edgings to create a neat, refined border
• Slip stitch (ss) – used to join rounds and secure yarn ends
• Chain spaces (ch-sp) – deliberate gaps created between stitches to add openwork and texture to the design

Materials and Tools

The Murchadh top requires approximately 160 metres (175 yards) of 4 ply or fingering weight yarn in assorted colors. The pattern specifies using a 4mm crochet hook as the primary tool for constructing the main body of the garment, with a 3mm crochet hook reserved for working edgings. The recommended gauge is 19 stitches and 9 rows over 10cm (4 inches) when working the granny stitch pattern with the 4mm hook. Crafters should verify their personal gauge before beginning the project to ensure the finished measurements match the intended dimensions.

The use of assorted colors in the yarn encourages creative color combinations, making this pattern an excellent choice for using up yarn scraps or creating a multi-colored, visually dynamic finished piece.