Step-by-Step Guide

Key Measurement:

• Measure from the underarm, over the top of one breast, to the cleavage area.
• For a size medium, Joanna uses 10 inches.

Creating the Crochet Pattern

1. Starting the Crochet:

• Slip Knot: Begin by creating a slip knot.
• Chain Formula: Chain according to your measurement. Use the formula: multiple of 2 + 1. For example:
  • If 10 inches = 49 chains (to accommodate a multiple of 2, removing one stitch later to retain an even number).

2. Alternating Single and Double Crochets:

• Start the first row:
  • Single crochet in the second chain from the hook.
  • Alternate single crochet and double crochet for the entire row.
  • Important: Always start with a single crochet and end with a double crochet to maintain the pattern flow.

3. Second Row and Beyond:

• Chain one and turn your work.
• Alternate:
  • Crochet a single crochet where there was a double crochet.
  • Crochet a double crochet where there was a single crochet.
• Ensure to maintain the pattern alternation for all rows.
• Tip: Continue this until the piece covers the bust area.

Decreasing for Shaping

• Stop crocheting once the height of the piece reaches the cleavage area (approximately 3 inches for Joanna).

1. Decreasing Rows:

• At the end of a row:
  • Skip the last stitch before turning your work.
• At the beginning of the next row:
  • Skip the first stitch and resume alternating single and double crochets.
• Continue decreasing one stitch on one side (slanting edge) while leaving the other side straight.

Result:

• After decreasing, you will form one side of the bust/cup.

Repeating and Joining the Cups

1. Crochet the Second Cup:

• Repeat the same pattern of measurements, rows, and decreases from the first cup to create the second side.

2. Assemble the Cups:

• Alignment: Flip one cup downward and keep the other facing upward.
• Join: Use a darning needle to sew:
  • Attach one edge of the first cup to the middle point of the second cup.
  • Secure edges tightly stitching through all layers.
• After joining both cups, you will have the initial assembly of the upper portion of the top.

Crocheting the Waistband

1. Measuring the Waist:

• From the joined cups, calculate the measurement for half of your waist size (this ensures proper fit).

2. Decrease for the Waist:

• Similar to the cups:
  • Alternate single and double crochets while decreasing on one side only to shape the waistband.

3. Adding Strings:

• Add long strings to the back for tying:
  • Use the formula: Create a chain 2, double crochet pattern to form thick and durable strings.

Creating the Peplum Ruffles

1. Attach Yarn at Waistband Base:

• Attach yarn wherever the joined cups end.
• Begin crocheting double crochets in each row along the lower edge of the cups.

2. Subtle Ruffles:

• First row: Alternate increased stitches by creating:
  • Two double crochets in one stitch.
  • Then one double crochet in the next stitch.
  • Repeat this alternation to the end of the row.
• Second row onward:
  • Crochet rows of double crochet without increases to form soft ruffles.

3. Joining the Middle Point:

• Strengthen the middle join of the ruffles by adding double crochets.
• Use the darning needle later to join two sides securely.

Adding Final Straps

• Create long straps for the backtie using the same chain 2, double crochet formula.
• Attach straps securely to the top edges of the cups.

Finishing Touches

• Weave in all loose yarn ends using your darning needle.
• Secure all stitches and joins to prevent unraveling during wear.

Conclusion

The pattern guides you through a simple yet elegant crochet process to create a twisted peplum top personalized to your size.