The Gatsby Top

The Gatsby Top by Laura Algarra

What is Being Made

The Gatsby Top is an intermediate-level crochet garment designed as a flowy, relaxed-fit top. This piece is constructed in two separate panels that are sewn together upon completion, allowing for structured shaping while maintaining a comfortable, non-fitted silhouette. The finished measurements range from 48 cm wide and 54 cm in length from shoulder to waist for size S, to 52 cm wide and 54 cm in length for size M-L, accommodating hip contours of 100 cm and 110 cm respectively.

Crochet Techniques and Construction

This pattern employs fundamental crochet construction methods suitable for intermediate crafters. The garment is worked in separate front and back panels using a foundation chain base, with rows built vertically using consistent stitch techniques. The two-piece construction approach allows for easier tension management and provides clear shaping opportunities at seams. Assembly involves sewing the completed panels together, which requires basic finishing skills and a yarn needle.

Stitches Used

The Gatsby Top utilizes double crochet as its primary stitch throughout the pattern. The pattern is written in UK crochet terminology, which is essential for crafters to note before beginning, as UK and US crochet abbreviations differ significantly. The consistent use of double crochet creates a fabric with moderate drape and texture suitable for a lightweight, wearable top.

Materials and Tools

• Yarn: 3 skeins of cotton yarn in fingering weight (100 grams / 300 meters per skein)
• Crochet Hook: 2.5 mm hook
• Finishing Tool: Yarn needle for seaming panels together

Tension and Sizing

Achieving proper tension is critical for this pattern's success. The specified tension is 15 treble stitches over 8 cm and 8 rows over 8 cm. Crafters are strongly advised to swatch and adjust their tension to match these measurements before beginning the full project. This attention to tension allows for easy customization; if a different contour is needed, stitch counts can be adapted proportionally while maintaining the garment's intended fit and drape. The pattern provides two distinct sizes with corresponding stitch counts for the foundation chains of the back panel: 92 chains plus 1 for size S, and 102 chains plus 1 for size M-L.

Pattern Format

This is a downloadable PDF pattern suitable for independent printing and reference during the crochet process. The detailed format includes measurements, tension specifications, and row-by-row instructions to guide intermediate crocheters through completion of this elegant, wearable top.