Rua Top in Rowan Handknit Cotton - Downloadable PDF

Rua Top in Rowan Handknit Cotton

What is Being Made

The Rua Top is a crocheted garment designed by Sarah Hatton for Rowan. This downloadable PDF pattern creates a fitted top suitable for multiple bust sizes, ranging from 81-86 cm to 122-127 cm. The finished garment features actual bust measurements from 90 cm to 138 cm, offering ease options for different fit preferences. The design is crafted as a matching back and front piece, making it an accessible project for those seeking to create a classic crochet top.

Techniques Used

The Rua Top employs several intermediate-level crochet techniques to create visual interest and texture. The pattern incorporates a decorative lower pattern section that features chain spaces and specialty stitches. A key technique used in this design is the leaf cluster, which is worked by creating two "legs" into specified stitches with chain spaces between them, adding dimensional detail to the garment. The pattern also utilizes treble stitches worked together (ttr3tog), which creates a decrease effect and contributes to the structured shaping of the piece. The combination of these techniques with foundation chains and standard double crochet stitches creates a balanced, wearable garment with textured patterning.

Stitches Used

• Double crochet (dc): Forms the foundational fabric and primary structure of the garment
• Chain stitches (ch): Used for foundation rows and to create openwork spaces within the pattern
• Treble stitches worked together (ttr3tog): Creates decreases and textured elements in the lower pattern
• Leaf clusters: Specialty stitch worked with two legs separated by chain spaces for decorative effect

Materials and Tools

This pattern is worked using Rowan Handknit Cotton, a DK weight yarn, with the photographed sample shown in the colorway Linen 205. The pattern requires a 3.50mm (US E4) crochet hook to achieve the correct gauge and fabric drape. The yardage requirements vary by size, with quantities ranging from 10 x 50gm balls for smaller sizes up to 12 x 50gm balls for the largest size. The DK weight yarn combined with the appropriate hook size creates a fabric with good stitch definition, allowing the leaf clusters and textured stitches to display clearly while maintaining a comfortable, breathable garment suitable for warm-weather wear.