Special Features

1. Size Inclusivity:
   • The vest is designed for plus sizes, with customizable options for armholes and length. The tutorial focuses on size XL, but adjustments can easily be made for smaller or larger sizes.
2. Boho Design:
   • The blend of alternating double crochet rows and X stitch creates a striking textured pattern, giving the vest an elegant yet casual bohemian aesthetic.
3. Customizable Armholes:
   • The pattern allows for wider or narrower armholes depending on the wearer’s comfort.
4. Lightweight Cotton Blend Yarn:
   • Ideal for summer wear, the yarn used (with a 60% cotton, 40% acrylic composition) results in breathable and durable clothing.
5. Quick Finish:
   • Simple stitches and repetitive patterns make this vest a project that can be completed relatively quickly.

Materials Needed

• Yarn:
  • Yarnspiration Cotton Cakes yarn (60% cotton, 40% acrylic). Approx. 1.25 skeins are required, and the color used in the tutorial is white.
• Crochet Hook:
  • Size J hook (6 mm).
• Tools:
  • Scissors for cutting yarn.
  • Measuring tape (optional, for ensuring accuracy).

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Starting the Foundation Chain

1. Make a Knot and Begin to Chain:
   • Craft a knot and place it on the crochet hook. Begin chaining 86 chains for size XL.
     

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2. Adjust for Larger Sizes:
   • The number of chains can be adjusted to fit larger or smaller bodies. Ensure the chain fits comfortably around the torso.

2. Row 1: Double Crochet

1. Double Crochet into Fourth Chain:
   • Skip the first three chains and double crochet into the fourth chain from the hook.
     

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2. Continue Double Crochets:
   • Work double crochets across the entire chain. By the end of Row 1, you’ll have 84 stitches.

3. Rows 2-3: Double Crochet

1. Chain Three and Turn:
   • At the end of each row, chain three (counts as the first double crochet in the row) and turn your work.
2. Double Crochet Across:
   • Continue working double crochets into each stitch across the row. Repeat this for Rows 2 and 3.
     

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4. Row 4-8: X Stitches

1. Start X Stitches:
   • Chain four, skip two stitches, and double crochet into the third stitch. Then go back to the previous skipped stitch and work another double crochet.
2. Chain One and Repeat:
   • Chain one, skip two stitches, and repeat the X stitch across the row.
3. End of Row:
   • Work a double crochet into the top of the third chain from the previous row.
4. Complete Five Rows:
   • Work an additional four rows of X stitches, following the same method as Row 4.
     

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5. Alternating the Pattern

1. Return to Double Crochets:
   • After five rows of X stitches, switch back to working three rows of double crochets.
2. Continue the 3-5 Pattern:
   • Alternate groups of three rows of double crochets and five rows of X stitches until reaching the desired length.

6. Creating the Armholes

1. Mark the Armhole Placement:
   • Work seven double crochets at the beginning of your row.
2. Chain for the Armhole:
   • Chain 30 for the armhole. If larger armholes are needed, chain 36 or more.
3. Skip Stitches and Continue:
   • Skip the next 30 stitches on the vest and begin working double crochets into the 31st stitch.

7. Completing the Armhole

1. Double Crochet Across:
   • On the next row, double crochet into the stitches created by the chains and across the rest of the row.
2. Repeat for Second Armhole:
   • Work the same armhole steps on the opposite side of the vest.

8. Final Rows and Edging

1. Neatening the Edges:
   • Single crochet around the armholes and body edges for a clean finish.
2. Add Droopy Neckline (Optional):
   • At the neckline, add a row of double crochets to create a fashionable droop effect.

Tutor’s Suggestions

1. Count Your Stitches:
   • Always count stitches at the end of each row to ensure a total of 84 stitches, which maintains the pattern’s symmetry.
2. Customize Armholes:
   • Adjust the chain count if larger or smaller armholes are desired.
3. Control Stitch Tightness:
   • Avoid overly tight stitches to ensure the vest is comfortable and drapes well.
4. Experiment with Neckline Finish:
   • Adding double crochets for the neckline is optional but recommended for an elegant look.

Uses

• Summer Vest: Perfect for warm weather over tanks, shirts, or swimsuits.
• Boho Layering: Pair with jeans or maxi dresses for a boho-inspired look.
• Customizable Gift: Adjust sizing and color to create a thoughtful handmade wardrobe piece.

Difficulty Level

• Beginner-Friendly:
  • The pattern uses simple stitches (chains, double crochets, X stitches), making it suitable for beginners with basic crochet knowledge.

Final Tip

Test Pattern with Sample Rows: Before starting the vest, consider working a small swatch of the 3-row double crochet and 5-row X stitch pattern. This ensures familiarity with the stitches and helps determine tension and measurements.

Conclusion

The Plus Size Boho Summer Vest pattern is an enjoyable and straightforward project designed for crocheters of all skill levels. With a combination of double crochets and X stitches, the vest achieves a chic boho aesthetic while remaining lightweight and breathable for summer. By alternating rows and customizing features such as armholes, neckline, and overall length, the vest becomes a unique piece tailored to the wearer’s preferences.

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