The gingham swing top is a classic and charming garment, perfect for babies and toddlers. Crocheting this piece allows you to create a unique, handmade top with a timeless checkered pattern and a delightful, flowing shape. This article will guide you through the process of making a crochet gingham swing top, from understanding the key techniques to assembling the final piece.
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1. Understanding the Gingham Technique
The key to creating the gingham pattern in crochet is tapestry crochet. This technique involves working with at least two colors of yarn in the same row, "carrying" the unused color along the top of your stitches.
Stitches for Gingham:
For this project, the griddle stitch is an excellent choice.
Griddle Stitch: Alternate between a single crochet (SC) and a double crochet (DC) in each stitch across the row.
In the next row, you'll place an SC into each DC from the previous row and a DC into each SC. This creates the beautiful, textured fabric.
Changing Colors:
The color changes are what form the checks. To make a seamless change, you'll join the new color on the last "yarn over" of the final stitch in a color block.
Step 1: Work a stitch in your current color until you have two loops left on your hook.
Step 2: Pick up the new color yarn with your hook.
Step 3: Pull the new color yarn through the last two loops on your hook to complete the stitch.
Step 4: Continue crocheting with the new color, making sure to carry the unused color along the top of your stitches.
2. Planning and Materials
Before you begin, it's essential to have a clear plan and the right materials.
Materials:
Yarn: You'll need two contrasting colors of yarn.
A DK (light worsted) or worsted weight cotton or cotton blend is highly recommended for its softness, drape, and durability. Crochet Hook: Choose a hook size appropriate for your yarn. The yarn label will provide a recommended size (e.g., a 4.0mm or 4.5mm hook for DK yarn).
Scissors
Tapestry Needle (for weaving in ends)
Stitch Markers
Gauge:
Creating a gauge swatch is crucial for a garment. This ensures your top will be the correct size. The pattern you follow will specify a required gauge (e.g., "4 stitches and 4 rows = 1 inch"). Crochet a small square in your chosen gingham pattern and measure it to see if it matches. Adjust your hook size accordingly (use a larger hook if your swatch is too small, or a smaller hook if it's too large).
3. The Construction: A Step-by-Step Guide
A typical gingham swing top is made in three main sections: the gingham panel, the skirt, and the straps.
Part 1: The Gingham Panel
This is the main body of the top, worked flat in rows.
Chain: Using your first color, chain the required number of stitches for the width of the top, as specified in your pattern. This chain should be long enough to wrap around the child's chest.
Establish Gingham Pattern:
Work a specified number of stitches in your first color (e.g., 4 stitches).
Change to your second color, and work the same number of stitches.
Continue this pattern across the row, always carrying the unused yarn.
Work the Rows: At the end of each row, chain 1 and turn.
When working the next row, you'll shift your color blocks to create the checkerboard pattern. For example, if you worked 4 stitches in Color A and 4 stitches in Color B in Row 1, you'll now work 4 stitches in Color B and 4 in Color A in Row 2. Repeat: Continue working rows until the panel reaches the desired height (from the underarm to the waist). This forms the entire top section of the garment.
Part 2: The Flowing Skirt
The skirt is worked in the round, creating a seamless, flowing bottom.
Join the Panel: Fold the gingham panel in half, so the two ends meet. Join them with a seam (using a tapestry needle or a slip stitch).
You now have a tube. Start the Skirt: Attach a new color (often one of your gingham colors or a new contrasting color) to the bottom edge of the gingham panel.
Increase: Begin working in the round. The first few rounds will include increases to create the "swing" or flare of the skirt. For example, you might place 2 double crochets in every third stitch to double the circumference of the skirt.
Continue: After the initial increase rounds, work straight down in your chosen stitch (e.g., double crochet) until the skirt reaches the desired length.
Part 3: The Straps
The straps are simple and sweet, perfect for a secure fit.
Measure and Mark: Try the top on the child (if possible) or measure a garment that fits them well. Use stitch markers to mark where the straps should be attached on the front and back of the gingham panel.
Crochet Straps: You'll crochet two separate straps. A common method is to:
Chain the required length for one strap.
Single crochet back down the chain.
Fasten off and weave in the ends.
Attach Straps: Sew the straps securely to the marked spots on the front and back of the top using your tapestry needle. Double-check that they are not twisted.
4. Final Touches and Finishing
Weave in Ends: Use your tapestry needle to weave in all loose ends securely.
With tapestry crochet, this is a crucial step to ensure a neat finish. Blocking: To give your top a professional look and help the stitches and fabric drape beautifully, block the finished garment. This involves gently wetting the top, shaping it to the correct dimensions, and letting it dry flat.
Embellishments: You can add a small crocheted flower, a ribbon bow, or a wooden button for a charming final touch.
Following these steps will help you create a beautiful and memorable gingham swing top. With a little practice, you'll be able to master this classic pattern and create a cherished garment for a special little one.
Video Tutorial :
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