Skater dress

Skater Dress by Itchy Crochet Designs

Project Overview

This downloadable crochet pattern from independent designer Itchy Crochet Designs creates a fitted skater dress suitable for intermediate crocheters. The design features a structured bodice and flared skirt silhouette, offering a versatile garment for various occasions. The pattern is available in three sizes with bust measurements of 37 inches (Small), 44 inches (Medium), and 51 inches (Large).

Yarn and Materials

The skater dress pattern calls for J C Brett Cotton On, a DK weight yarn that provides structure and drape suitable for a fitted dress design. The yarn requirements vary by size:

• Small: 1690 meters / 1848 yards across 13 balls of 50g
• Medium: 1950 meters / 2133 yards across 15 balls of 50g
• Large: 2340 meters / 2599 yards across 18 balls of 50g

A 4mm crochet hook is used for this project. The pattern notes that there is minimal give in the bust area, and recommends adjusting hook size by half sizes for mid-range bust measurements to achieve better fit.

Gauge and Tension

The recommended gauge is 12 stitches by 15 rows over a 3-inch square. Achieving proper gauge is important for obtaining the correct finished measurements and fit of the dress.

Crochet Techniques and Stitches

This intermediate-level pattern employs several fundamental crochet techniques to construct the garment:

• Foundation Single Crochet (Foundation-less SC): The pattern primarily uses foundation single crochet, which creates a more elastic edge compared to traditional foundation chains. This technique provides additional "give" at the edges, allowing for better stretch and fit. The pattern notes that while a standard foundation chain can be substituted, it will result in less flexibility at that edge.
• Foundation Double Crochet: A special foundation stitch used in this pattern that creates a looser edge than a standard foundation chain while maintaining a straighter edge line. This stitch is worked by chaining 2, inserting the hook in the 2nd chain from the hook, yarning over and pulling through the chain, then completing the stitch by yarning over and pulling through the first loop on the hook (creating the "foundation" chain), and finally yarning over and pulling through both remaining loops.
• Single Crochet: A basic stitch used throughout the construction of the fitted bodice and skirt sections.

Pattern Construction

The skater dress is constructed using crochet fundamentals with an emphasis on proper foundation techniques to ensure the dress has appropriate stretch and recovery. The use of foundation stitches rather than traditional chains allows the garment edges to maintain elasticity, which is particularly important in a fitted dress design where comfort and movement are essential.

Suitable for Intermediate Crocheters

Classified as an intermediate difficulty pattern, this skater dress requires familiarity with basic crochet stitches and the ability to follow multi-part instructions. The foundation stitch techniques and sizing adjustments make it appropriate for crocheters with some experience who are ready to tackle fitted garment construction.