Andaman Top in Berroco Seaspun - Downloadable PDF

Andaman Top in Berroco Seaspun – Crochet Pattern by Alison Green

The Andaman Top is a beautifully constructed crochet garment designed by Alison Green and published by Berroco. This intermediate-level downloadable PDF pattern guides crocheters through creating an elegant, relaxed-fit top with a sophisticated open lacework stitch pattern. The design is worked in a single piece from the lower back edge up to the shoulders, with the fronts then worked downward from the shoulders to the lower front edge — a clever construction method that creates a seamless, flowing silhouette. Sides are sewn together after completion, leaving deliberate openings for the armholes and a split hem at the lower edge for added style and ease of movement.

Sizing and Fit

The Andaman Top is offered in four sizes with a notably forgiving fit, designed to suit a wide range of body types:

• Size 1: Back Width 17" / 43 cm — fits approximately XS–S
• Size 2: Back Width 22" / 56 cm — fits approximately M–XL
• Size 3: Back Width 27½" / 70 cm — fits approximately 2X–3X
• Size 4: Back Width 33" / 84 cm — fits approximately 4X–5X

The finished length is either 28" / 71 cm (sizes 1 and 2) or 30½" / 77.5 cm (sizes 3 and 4). The sample shown in the pattern is worked in size 22" / 56 cm. Because the sizing is described as very forgiving, this top is an excellent choice for crocheters who fall between standard sizing categories.

Yarn and Materials

The pattern calls for Berroco Seaspun, a worsted weight yarn, as the recommended fiber. Berroco Seaspun is sold in 50-gram balls, and the quantity required depends on the size being made:

• Size 1 (XS–S): 6 balls
• Size 2 (M–XL): 8 balls
• Size 3 (2X–3X): 10 balls
• Size 4 (4X–5X): 12 balls

The colorway used in the sample is #10304 Bright. Berroco strongly recommends using the specified yarn to ensure accurate results, as stitch definition, drape, and gauge are all calibrated to Berroco Seaspun.

Hooks and Notions

Two crochet hook sizes are required for this pattern:

• Size D / 3.25 mm crochet hook (smaller hook, used for finishing details such as the Romanian cord tie)
• Size 7 / 4.5 mm crochet hook (larger hook, used for the main body of the garment)

Crocheters should use whatever hook size is necessary to achieve the correct gauge. Stitch markers are also listed as required notions and are helpful for tracking pattern repeats and shaping points throughout the construction.

Gauge

Achieving accurate gauge is essential for this pattern. The specified gauge is 24 stitches and 8 rows = 4" / 10 cm in the pattern stitch, worked with the larger hook and measured after blocking. Each double crochet and each chain-1 space counts as one stitch when measuring gauge. Blocking is a critical finishing step for this design, as it opens up the lacework and ensures the garment reaches its intended dimensions.

Construction Technique

The Andaman Top is worked in one piece, which minimizes seaming and creates a cohesive fabric. The construction begins at the lower back edge and is worked upward to the shoulders. The two front panels are then worked downward from the shoulders toward the lower front edge. This top-down-front construction approach is a hallmark of thoughtful garment design, allowing for easy length adjustments and