Shelby Top

Shelby Top by Rachel Counts

What Is Being Made

The Shelby Top is a loose-fitting crochet top designed by Rachel Counts. This garment is crafted as a downloadable PDF pattern and is suitable for beginners looking to create a wearable piece. The top is available in five sizes ranging from Small to 3XL, with finished bust measurements from 33 inches to 57 inches. The design incorporates 3 inches of positive ease, making it an ideal choice for a relaxed, comfortable fit.

Crochet Techniques and Construction

The Shelby Top employs fundamental crochet techniques that make it accessible for beginner-level crafters. The pattern uses foundation single crochet (fsc) as a starting method, which creates a stable base without requiring a separate chain foundation. The construction involves working in rounds (rnd), with strategic use of slip stitches (sl st) to join rounds and maintain structure. The pattern incorporates repeat sections (rep) and skip stitches (sk) to shape the garment, allowing for shaping and fit adjustments across the different size options.

Stitches Used

The Shelby Top pattern utilizes a range of essential crochet stitches:

• Chain (ch) – foundational stitch used for creating edges and spaces
• Foundation Single Crochet (fsc) – creates a stable, finished base edge
• Slip Stitch (sl st) – joins rounds and creates seamless transitions
• Single Crochet (sc) – provides dense, structured fabric
• Double Crochet (dc) – creates lighter, more draping sections
• Triple Crochet (tr) – adds height and openness to the fabric

Yarn and Materials

The Shelby Top pattern is designed for sport weight yarn, which creates a lightweight, breathable fabric ideal for a top. The recommended yarn is Darn Good Yarn Sport Weight Linen 2 Ply, with yardage requirements varying by size: approximately 870 yards for size Small, 1,050 yards for Medium, 1,350 yards for Large, 1,600 yards for XL/2XL, and 1,950 yards for 3XL. Any sport weight yarn with comparable yardage can be substituted. The pattern requires an F (3.75mm) crochet hook, or a size adjusted to obtain proper gauge. A yarn needle is needed for weaving in ends and finishing the garment.

Sizing Information

The Shelby Top is offered in five size options: S, M, L, XL/2XL, and 3XL. The "to fit" bust measurements are 30, 36, 42, 48, and 54 inches respectively, while the finished bust measurements are 33, 39, 45, 51, and 57 inches. The pattern is intentionally designed with positive ease to create a loose-fitting silhouette, making it forgiving and comfortable to wear. Crafters should select their size based on the finished bust measurement rather than their actual bust size, considering how much additional ease they prefer.