Monday, August 18, 2008

Water Cube Cami

Named after the Olympic pool in Beijing. Should call it the Phelps Cami b/c I was glued to the TV while working on this. It's the Cameo tank from Doris Chan's book Everyday Crochet. I like the tops and am finding the instructions pretty easy to follow. I am not usually a fan of crocheted wearables, but these are nice and not granny or 70's looking.

I don’t know what I’m thinking making a baby blue crocheted shell cami…it’s so not me, but I think it’s going to look nice. I got some help with the pattern from Doris Chan herself (very nice and prompt replies). After much deliberation with hook size, pattern size, and strap length, it's now smooth sailing (water pun not intended - heh). I redid the front and back top pieces for the size 30 (vs. 32) and it's a much better fit. The book notes say to make one size smaller than bust size, so I guess I should've read that first.



I worked the front and back pieces with a G (4.25mm) hook. Kept same hook for the join and for Rnds 2 and 3. Switched to F (3.75) hook for remaining rounds of body and am going to switch to a D hook for some waist shaping, then go back to the F for the hips. I hope it fits, I’ll be so psyched! Also…I took another Raveler's advice and stopped working on the body to do the straps, so I could try it on and really see how it fits. I am loving this yarn, wish it came in non-baby colors.



After about 5 different tries, I ended up doing a ch 38 for the straps! I used a G hook for the initial strap round, then switched to F hook for other 2 times around armhole (reduces strap sag, so says the pattern notes). It now lays nicely on me and I can add the neckline edging without it being too high up on my chest.

2 comments:

Mary Ann said...

Very nice! And it looks great on you.

Unknown said...

Love your top... you have a nice bod too (I'm jealous) ;>)))

Very pretty, and I understand what you mean about the baby colours. Still, it's loverly.