Denver Top

Denver Top Crochet Pattern by The Crocheting

What is Being Made

The Denver Top is a crocheted garment designed as a wearable top. This pattern is available in four sizes: extra small (XS), small (S), medium (M), and large (L), making it accessible for various body types. The design features a color-blocked construction with front panels worked in contrasting colors, creating a modern and visually striking finished piece.

Techniques Used

This beginner-level crochet pattern employs fundamental crochet techniques suitable for those new to the craft. The construction involves working flat pieces that are later assembled, a common method for creating structured garments. The pattern uses turning chains and slip stitches to shape the fabric and create clean edges. Decreasing stitches (dc-dec) is incorporated to achieve proper shaping and fit across the bust and body.

Stitches Used

• Chain (Ch): The foundation stitch used to create the base of the garment pieces
• Slip Stitch (Sl st): Used for joining rounds and creating seamless transitions between sections
• Double Crochet (Dc): The primary stitch throughout the pattern, providing structure and drape to the finished top
• V-Stitch (Vst): Defined as [(dc, ch 1, dc) into a ch-1 space], this decorative stitch adds texture and visual interest to the garment
• Decrease (Dc-dec): Used strategically to shape the garment and ensure proper fit

Materials and Tools

The Denver Top is designed to be worked with Paintbox Yarns Simply Aran in two colorways: Sailor Blue and Mustard Yellow. Yardage requirements vary by size, ranging from 200 yards to 350 yards of each color. A 3.5 mm crochet hook (size E) is used throughout the pattern, paired with a tapestry needle for weaving in ends and assembling the finished pieces.

Gauge and Sizing

The pattern is worked to a gauge of 10 stitches over approximately 3 inches, which is important to check before beginning to ensure the finished garment meets the intended dimensions. Sizing and directions are clearly denoted for XS, S, M, and L sizes, with stitch counts provided for each size throughout the pattern instructions.

Pattern Construction

The Denver Top is constructed using front panels that are made separately in contrasting colors—one panel in Sailor Blue and one in Mustard Yellow. This color-blocking technique creates visual balance and interest. The pattern involves multiple rounds of consistent stitching, with decreases introduced strategically to shape the garment. The use of turning chains (Ch 3, which counts as a double crochet) maintains consistent stitch height throughout each row or round.