Calgary Cold Shoulder Top

Calgary Cold Shoulder Top by Michelle Ferguson

What is Being Made

The Calgary Cold Shoulder Top is a crocheted pullover sweater designed with a cold shoulder construction, creating a modern, off-shoulder aesthetic. This top-down garment is suitable for multiple sizing options ranging from extra-small through 3X, with bust measurements from 28-30 inches up to 52-54 inches. The design incorporates approximately 1-2 inches of positive ease for a comfortable, relaxed fit.

Construction Method and Techniques

The Calgary Cold Shoulder Top is worked from the top down, a popular crochet construction method that allows for easier fitting adjustments and sleeve customization. The sweater is constructed in the round without joining between rounds, which creates a seamless appearance and reduces finishing work. Sleeves are added after the main body is completed, allowing for precise sleeve placement and shaping. A stitch marker is essential for tracking the beginning of each round throughout the construction process.

Stitches and Stitch Abbreviations

This intermediate-level pattern utilizes fundamental crochet stitches combined with shaping techniques:

• ch(s) – chain stitch(es), the foundation stitch used to create the base of the garment
• st(s) – stitch(es), the basic unit of crochet fabric
• sc – single crochet, a short, tight stitch often used for edges and shaping
• dc – double crochet, a taller stitch that creates the primary fabric of the sweater
• dc2tog – double crochet 2 together, a decrease technique used to shape the garment and create the cold shoulder effect
• v-st – v-stitch, defined as (dc, ch 1, dc), a decorative stitch that creates texture and visual interest

Yarn and Gauge Specifications

The Calgary Cold Shoulder Top is designed for sport weight yarn, a lightweight yarn category that creates a fabric suitable for layering and warm-weather wear. Yardage requirements vary by size: XS requires 975 yards, S requires 1000 yards, M requires 1150 yards, L requires 1200 yards, XL requires 1300 yards, 2X requires 1500 yards, and 3X requires 1600 yards.

The pattern specifies a gauge of 16 double crochet stitches by 8 rows equaling a 4-inch square. Achieving proper gauge is critical for obtaining the correct finished measurements and fit. A G (4.0mm) crochet hook is recommended, though the pattern notes that you should use the hook size necessary to obtain the specified gauge, as individual crochet tension varies.

Materials and Tools Required

• Sport weight yarn in the yardage appropriate for your chosen size
• G (4.0mm) crochet hook or appropriate size hook to match gauge
• Stitch marker for tracking round beginnings
• Scissors for cutting yarn
• Measuring tape for checking gauge and finished measurements
• Tapestry needle for weaving in ends and any seaming if needed

Difficulty Level

The Calgary Cold Shoulder Top is rated as an intermediate crochet project. This difficulty level assumes the crocheter is comfortable with basic stitches, can maintain consistent tension, understands how to read pattern abbreviations, and can work in the round. The top-down construction method and shaping techniques such as dc2tog require intermediate skills, making this an appropriate project for crafters with some crochet experience.

Pattern Information

This downloadable PDF pattern is designed by Michelle Ferguson and is available through Two Brothers Blankets. The pattern includes sizing information for L, 2X, and 3X beginning on page 4 of the document. The pattern is protected by copyright and is the intellectual property of Two Brothers Blankets.