Concamerate Shell or Tunic

Concamerate Shell or Tunic by OneLoopShy Designs

What Is Being Made

The Concamerate Shell or Tunic is a versatile crochet top designed as a creative variation on the classic granny square motif. This garment offers flexibility in styling, allowing makers to construct either a fitted shell or an elongated tunic depending on personal preference and design choices. The pattern provides a "recipe" approach, encouraging customization and one-of-a-kind creations while maintaining the fundamental construction method.

Construction Method

This crochet top is constructed from two center-start granny squares that are joined together during the completion of the final round of the second square. The center-start technique creates squares that grow outward from a central point, offering a seamless integration when the two pieces are connected. This two-square foundation serves as the base structure for the entire garment.

Crochet Techniques and Stitches Used

The Concamerate pattern employs fundamental crochet techniques suitable for intermediate-level crafters. Key stitches and techniques include:

• Chain (ch) – Used for foundation and spacing throughout the pattern
• Double crochet (dc) – The primary stitch creating the fabric structure and density
• Single crochet (sc) – Incorporated for shaping and finishing details
• Slip stitch (sl st) – Used for joining rounds and connecting pieces
• Beginning Corner (beg corner) – A special stitch technique combining chain and double crochet stitches to create defined corner spaces
• Center-start squares – A construction method where squares originate from a central point and expand outward through successive rounds

Yarn and Materials

The Concamerate Shell or Tunic requires approximately 600 to 800 yards of yarn, accommodating various yarn weights for different fabric outcomes. Suitable yarn weights include sock, sport, DK (double knit), and light worsted options. The pattern model was worked in DK weight bamboo and wool blend yarn, which provides a soft, breathable fabric ideal for wearable garments.

Crochet hook selection is customized based on the chosen yarn weight. The pattern recommends using a hook two sizes larger than the standard recommendation for your selected yarn, allowing for a soft, flexible, and wearable fabric. The model was created using a size H hook. Makers should work a quick swatch of four or five rounds of the starting square to verify that the resulting fabric meets the desired softness and flexibility standards before committing to the full project.

Design Flexibility

The pattern provides directions for two distinct finishing options: edging as a simple shell for a fitted silhouette, or extending the sides to create a tunic-length garment. This adaptability allows crafters to customize the final garment to suit their style preferences and desired length.

Skill Level

This pattern is rated as intermediate difficulty, making it suitable for crocheters with foundational skills who are ready to explore more structured garment construction and customization techniques.