Bell Sleeve Top by Gu’Chet

a crochet lace pullover to bring out your inner hippie

These are my first sweaters I have ever made, through either knit or crochet! I absolutely love these. Crocheted lace has such a delicate, feminine vibe to it that, when paired with bell sleeves, is a no-brainer! When I saw this pattern, I knew I had to make it, and I’m so glad I did. I loved it so much that I made one for me and one for my friend!

The pattern by Gu’Chet is available on Ravelry for $4 USD. It had numerous diagrams which were very helpful for deducing the lace stitches and sewing up the finished pieces. This top is worked in four pieces that are sewn together at the end. I found this to be a really easy pattern to memorize, both for the sleeves and the bodice. I always appreciate when I catch on to a pattern easily because it makes my project go by so quickly.

The yarn I used for both of these tops has easily become one of my most favorite yarns I’ve ever used. Berrocco’s Modern Cotton is a 60% Pima Cotton, 40% Modal Rayon, medium weight, machine washable, and soft-as-can-be dream yarn. I wanted to use a heavier weight yarn than what the pattern called for because I was concerned that the bodice would be too open if I used a fingering weight yarn. I am so glad I chose a heftier yarn because the bodice turned out just perfect.

I made one top in shade 1601, Sandy Point following pattern size Medium, and one in 1651, Narragansett following pattern size Extra Small. I believe I used ~4 skeins for each pullover. Because I used a heavier yarn than suggested, the XS fit more like my true size, a traditional Women’s 8/Medium, and the pattern size Medium fit more like an oversized Large. So, if you’re interested in making this with Modern Cotton yarn, keep that in mind! (Of course, a gauge test is always a good idea…)

I wet blocked both of these tops before sewing together, which really helped to smooth out the lace designs in the sleeves. If you plan on making this, I highly recommend wet blocking each piece.

This is such a soft and cozy pullover to wear, and the sleeves are a wonderful design element to show off! It is a quick project to work and a rewarding one, too. I hope you give it a try! Until next week, happy crocheting!