Almaith

Almaith Crochet Top by Caroline Murphy

What is Being Made

Almaith is a crocheted top designed by Caroline Murphy (caroline30 on Ravelry). This garment is constructed using the sideways crochet method, beginning at the right armhole and progressing toward the left armhole. The top is available in three sizes: XS (105cm/41.5" actual width), S (116.75cm/46" actual width), and M (128.25cm/50.5" actual width). All sizes share a consistent length from shoulder of 35.5cm/14".

Construction Technique

The Almaith top employs a sideways construction method, a technique that involves crocheting horizontally across the garment rather than from top to bottom. This approach allows for seamless shaping and integration of design elements as the piece grows from one armhole to the other. The pattern is written using American crochet terminology, making it accessible to crocheters familiar with standard US abbreviations and stitch definitions.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns Used

The pattern utilizes fundamental crochet stitches combined to create the garment structure:

• Single crochet (sc): Used as a foundational stitch for building fabric density and structure
• Chain stitch (ch): Creates the foundation and forms decorative chain spaces throughout the pattern
• Chain spaces (ch-sp): Openwork elements created by chaining and skipping stitches, adding texture and visual interest to the design
• Double crochet (dc): Employed for building height and drape in the fabric
• Treble (tr): Used to create taller stitches where additional height or loft is desired
• Slip stitch (ss): Utilized for joining and finishing details

Materials and Tools

The Almaith top is designed to be worked with 4-ply yarn, a lightweight yarn weight that creates a delicate, refined fabric suitable for a wearable top. Yardage requirements vary by size: XS requires 390 metres/427 yards, S requires 430 metres/471 yards, and M requires 475 metres/520 yards. A 4mm crochet hook is recommended, or whatever hook size is needed to achieve the pattern's gauge of 26 stitches and 10 rows over 10cm/4".

Difficulty Level

This pattern is rated as intermediate difficulty. While it uses basic crochet stitches, the sideways construction method and gauge-dependent shaping require solid foundational crochet skills and attention to stitch counts and pattern repeats. Crocheters comfortable with reading patterns and maintaining consistent tension will find this project manageable.