Beaded Crochet Vest made for a delightful, colourful summery day over a tube or singlet. Or to bring warmth and cheer when worn over a long sleeve top in the cooler season.
This beaded vest was inspired by an the following Inca top that I found in an old shopping catalogue.
The gauge (beaded) has to be worked out. Then comes the many hours of graphing and colouring it in.
Front of Beaded Crochet Vest
The front took a very long time too. Working in intarsia crochet always does. Made longer by the amount of time needed to carefully tuck, hide, and neaten all the loose yarn as you change colours. (It is not always possible to carry unused yarns across multiple rows – as they can add unsightly bulk.)
Back of Beaded Crochet Vest
I found it very hard not to throw in some beads. So I did! To not overload the back, I used parts of the existing graphed drawings, one colour bead, and crocheted in the outlines as I worked.
Corded Finish
To give the edges a firm and lasting edge (so that it won’t pull out of shape over time), I incorporated micro-suede cording as I crocheted all round the edges of the vest (after sewing together the sides and shoulders). And to provide an even more professional look, I did a round of top chain-stitching. After that, I commenced to make the wider edge and incorporated in the needed buttonholes.Note for self: The cord ends, after proper easing, were finally affixed with a bit of glue (Hypo Fabric) and eased in so that nothing shows. No knotting, please!
Materials
• yarn (Milk Cotton) – soft and delightful
• 8/0 seed beads
• microfiber suede cord (BeadSmith)
• black textured buttons (plastic)
Measurements
• Made for Small size (Bust size: 32-34 inches)
Care
Do not machine wash. Gentle hand wash in warm water. Roll in towel to absorb excess liquid. Dry flat.
