Odessa

Odessa Crochet Skirt by Brandi Isham

Project Overview

The Odessa is an intermediate-level crochet skirt designed by Brandi Isham. This downloadable PDF pattern creates a versatile garment available in three size ranges: XS/S, M/L, and 1X/2X, all finished at 26 inches in length. The skirt features a unique construction method and decorative motif detailing that adds visual interest to the finished piece.

Construction Technique

The Odessa skirt is constructed sideways in rows, meaning the crocheter works horizontally across the width of the garment rather than from top to bottom. This sideways construction creates a single large piece that is then seamed up one side. Once the main body is complete, a band of decorative motifs is added to the bottom edge, creating a distinctive finished look. The pattern includes instructions for two different silhouettes: a full, flowing skirt version and a more fitted alternative, allowing crafters to choose their preferred style.

Crochet Stitches and Techniques

This intermediate project employs a comprehensive range of crochet stitches and stitch variations to create texture and structure:

• Slip Stitch (Sl St) – used for joining and seaming
• Single Crochet (Sc) – foundational stitch for dense fabric
• Single Crochet Back Loop Only (Scblo) – creates textured ridges by working into only the back loop of stitches
• Half Double Crochet (Hdc) – medium-height stitch for balanced fabric
• Half Double Crochet Front Loop Only (Hdcflo) – textural variation working into front loops
• Double Crochet (Dc) – taller stitch for lighter, more open fabric
• Double Crochet Front Loop Only (Dcflo) – creates ridged texture; used in gauge measurement
• Treble Crochet (Tr) – extra-tall stitch for openwork sections
• Treble Crochet Front Loop Only (Trflo) – textured treble variation

The use of front loop only and back loop only techniques throughout the pattern creates dimensional texture and visual definition in the finished skirt.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The Odessa skirt is designed to be made with Caron Simply Soft, a 100% acrylic yarn in the aran weight category. Yardage requirements vary by size: the XS/S and M/L sizes require 4 skeins of the main color, while the 1X/2X size requires 5 skeins. Each skein contains 315 yards and weighs 6 ounces (170g). The pattern calls for Chartreuse as the primary color, with 1 skein of Black for contrast, likely used in the decorative motif band. A size H/8 (5.00 mm) crochet hook is required for this project. Optional elastic cord for the waistband is recommended to provide a comfortable, adjustable fit, though it is not required to complete the skirt. A yarn needle is needed for weaving in ends and seaming.

Gauge and Motif Specifications

Proper gauge is essential for achieving the correct finished dimensions. The pattern specifies two gauge measurements: 16 double crochet front loop only stitches by 8 rows equals 4 inches, and 16 rows of single crochet back loop only equals 4 inches. The decorative motifs added to the skirt's bottom band vary in size: small motifs measure approximately 2.5 inches by 4 inches, while large motifs measure approximately 4 inches by 4 inches. These motifs create the distinctive embellished hem detail that characterizes the finished Odessa skirt.