This pattern will guide you through crocheting a classic circular yoke, a perfect starting point for a baby dress, top, or sweater. The design is simple, elegant, and uses basic stitches, making it a great project for crocheters of all skill levels. The circular shape is created by a series of increases that create a beautiful drape. This pattern is written for a size up to 12 months, but can be easily adjusted for a larger fit.
Materials
- Yarn: Approximately 100-150 yards of DK weight (Category 3) yarn in a bright pink or a color of your choice.
- Hook: A 4.0 mm (G/6) crochet hook.
- Accessories: A yarn needle for weaving in ends and scissors.
Stitches Used (US Terms)
- ch: Chain
- sl st: Slip Stitch
- hdc: Half Double Crochet
- inc: Increase (work two stitches in the same stitch)
Part 1: The Yoke Construction
The yoke is worked from the top down, in the round, creating a smooth, seamless piece.
Initial Chain: Ch 60. Join with a sl st to the first chain to form a loop, being careful not to twist. (60 stitches)
Row 2: Ch 2 (counts as first hdc), hdc in each st around. Join with a sl st to the top of the ch 2. (60 hdc)
Row 3 (Increase Round): Ch 2, hdc in the next 9 sts. inc (2 hdc in the next st). Hdc in the next 9 sts, inc. Repeat * to * around. Join with a sl st. (66 hdc)
Row 4: Ch 2, hdc in each st around. Join with a sl st. (66 hdc)
Row 5 (Increase Round): Ch 2, hdc in the next 10 sts. inc. Hdc in the next 10 sts, inc. Repeat * to * around. Join with a sl st. (72 hdc)
Row 6: Ch 2, hdc in each st around. Join with a sl st. (72 hdc)
Row 7 (Increase Round): Ch 2, hdc in the next 11 sts. inc. Hdc in the next 11 sts, inc. Repeat * to * around. Join with a sl st. (78 hdc)
Row 8: Ch 2, hdc in each st around. Join with a sl st. (78 hdc)
Row 9 (Increase Round): Ch 2, hdc in the next 12 sts. inc. Hdc in the next 12 sts, inc. Repeat * to * around. Join with a sl st. (84 hdc)
Row 10: Ch 2, hdc in each st around. Join with a sl st. (84 hdc)
Row 11 (Increase Round): Ch 2, hdc in the next 13 sts. inc. Hdc in the next 13 sts, inc. Repeat * to * around. Join with a sl st. (90 hdc)
Row 12: Ch 2, hdc in each st around. Join with a sl st. (90 hdc)
Row 13 (Increase Round): Ch 2, hdc in the next 14 sts. inc. Hdc in the next 14 sts, inc. Repeat * to * around. Join with a sl st. (96 hdc)
Row 14: Ch 2, hdc in each st around. Join with a sl st. (96 hdc)
Row 15 (Increase Round): Ch 2, hdc in the next 15 sts. inc. Hdc in the next 15 sts, inc. Repeat * to * around. Join with a sl st. (102 hdc)
Row 16: Ch 2, hdc in each st around. Join with a sl st. (102 hdc)
Part 2: Dividing for Armholes
Now you’ll divide your stitches to create the openings for the sleeves.
Row 17: Ch 2, hdc in the next 15 sts (this is the back section). Ch 10 (skip 21 sts for the first armhole), hdc in the next 30 sts (this is the front section). Ch 10 (skip 21 sts for the second armhole), hdc in the next 15 sts. Join with a sl st to the top of the ch 2.
Row 18: Ch 2, hdc in each st and each ch around. Join with a sl st. (80 hdc)
Row 19: Ch 2, hdc in each st around. Join with a sl st. (80 hdc)
Video Tutorial:
Final Touches and Sizing
Weave in all remaining ends with your yarn needle. Gently block the yoke to help it lay flat and showcase the stitches. At this point, you have a perfect starting point for a dress or a top.
To continue to a dress: Simply continue working in the round with your chosen stitch pattern (for example, a double crochet or a shell stitch) until you reach your desired length.
To adjust the size:
- For a smaller size (e.g., newborn): Start with a smaller initial chain (e.g., 50) and a smaller hook (e.g., 3.5 mm). Adjust the number of increase rounds and stitches accordingly.
- For a larger size (e.g., 2T-3T): Start with a larger initial chain (e.g., 70) and a larger hook (e.g., 4.5 mm). You will also need to add more increase rounds and stitches before dividing for the armholes.
This pattern is a fantastic way to create a classic, handmade piece that can be customized to your liking. The repetition of the stitches makes it a relaxing project, and the final result is a beautiful and professional-looking garment.
