Women's Top in Sirdar Cotton DK - 7240 - Downloadable PDF

Women's Crochet Top in Sirdar Cotton DK – Pattern 7240

This downloadable PDF crochet pattern from Sirdar provides instructions for a women's top worked in Sirdar Cotton DK, available in six sizes ranging from a 32 to 42 inch bust (dress sizes 10 to 20). The finished garment has an actual bust measurement of 82 to 108 cm (32¼ to 42½ inches) and a full length of approximately 53 to 61 cm (21 to 24 inches), measured from the back of the neck. The top is a versatile, warm-weather piece that showcases a decorative Petal Panel as its central design feature, making it a rewarding project for crocheters who enjoy combining textured stitch panels with straightforward shaping.

Construction Method

One of the most distinctive aspects of this pattern is that both the Back and Front are worked identically, simplifying the construction process considerably. Each piece is worked from the neck downwards, beginning with a foundation chain and building outward with shaping rows before continuing straight to the hem. This top-down approach allows crocheters to try on the piece as they go and adjust length easily if desired. Because both pieces are the same, there is no need to keep track of separate right and left front shaping, making this an accessible pattern for intermediate crocheters.

Stitches and Techniques Used

• Treble crochet (tr) – the primary stitch used throughout the body of the top, worked in rows to create a firm yet drapeable fabric
• Double crochet (dc) – used within the Petal Panel to create the decorative lace-like motif running down the centre of each piece
• Chain spaces (ch, 4ch, 3ch) – integral to the Petal Panel construction, creating the open, floral mesh effect that gives the panel its name
• Increases (2tr into next tr) – worked at the beginning of shaping rows to expand the fabric from the neck downward, with the number of increase rows varying by size
• Foundation chain – the garment begins with a 55-chain foundation for all six sizes, from which the neckline and initial structure are established

The Petal Panel is a key design element that runs centrally down both the front and back of the top. It is formed using a combination of chain loops, double crochet, and missed stitches to produce a repeating lace motif. The panel measures 21 cm (8¼ inches) in width and is flanked on either side by sections of plain treble crochet, creating a balanced and elegant visual contrast between open lacework and solid fabric.

Tension

Achieving the correct tension is emphasised strongly in this pattern. The stated tension is 17 stitches and 10 rows to 10 cm (4 inches) over treble crochet pattern, and the Petal Panel itself should measure 21 cm (8¼ inches) across. Working to the correct tension is described as essential to ensure success, and crocheters are advised to adjust their hook size accordingly — using a thinner hook if fewer stitches are produced and a thicker hook if more stitches result.

Materials Required

• Yarn: Sirdar Cotton DK, shade 519, in 100g balls — quantities range from 3 balls (sizes 10–12) to 4 balls (sizes 14–20)
• Hook: A 4.00mm crochet hook (UK size 8, USA size F/5), or the size needed to achieve the stated tension

The pattern notes that Sirdar Cotton DK can be substituted with several other compatible yarns from the Sirdar range, including Country Style DK, Wash 'n' Wear Double Crepe DK, Crofter DK, Ella DK, Soukie DK, Calico DK, and Click DK, though yarn amounts may vary with substitution. This flexibility makes the pattern adaptable to a crocheter's existing