Linda Skuja has recently been drawn to exploring crochet classics, such as the granny stitch, and the Mirdza top is no exception. While experimenting with stitch patterns, she realised that traditional stitches blend seamlessly with the intricate spider stitch, creating a modern silhouette that is effortlessly chic. She took the idea further, designing a shoulder detail that subtly follows the angle of the stitch pattern. The result is a short-sleeved piece that showcases how classic crochet techniques can be transformed into stylish, contemporary apparel. 

SIZES
1 (2, 3, 4) (5, 6, 7)

Recommended ease: 3.5–7.5” / 9–19 cm of positive ease.

FINISHED MEASUREMENTS
Chest Circumference: 31.5 (39.5, 47.25, 55) (63, 71, 78.75)’’ / 80 (100, 120, 140) (160, 180, 200) cm.

Shoulder and Yoke Depth (from High Shoulder Point to Upper Front/Back): 2 (3.5, 4.75, 6.5) (7.75, 9.5, 11)’’ / 5.5 (8.5, 12.5, 16) (20, 24, 28) cm.

Armhole Depth (Upper Front/Back): 6.5 (6.75, 8.5, 8.25) (8.5, 9.75, 9.75)’’ / 16 (17, 21.5, 21) (21.5, 24.5, 24.5) cm.

Body Length (from Underarm to Hem, incl. Hem): 9.75” / 25 cm (adjustable).

Total Length: 18.25 (20, 23, 24.5) (26, 29, 30.5)“ / 46.5 (50.5, 59, 62) (69.5, 73.5, 77.5) cm.

Sleeve Length: 4.75 (4.75, 6.25, 6.25) (7.75, 7.75, 7.75)“ / 12 (12, 15.5, 15.5) (19.5, 19.5, 19.5) cm.

MATERIALS
Yarn: Mandarin Petit by Sandnes Garn (100% cotton, 195 yds / 180 m – 50 g), 5 (6, 7, 8) (8, 9, 10) skeins in the colourway 2102. 

Or approx. 975 (1170, 1170, 1560) (1560, 1755, 1950) yds / 890 (1070, 1070, 1425) (1425, 1605, 1785) m of sport-weight yarn.

Alternative yarn suggestions are for example Fair Cotton by Katia, Cleo by Plymouth Yarn and Ultra Pima Fine by Cascade.

Hook: US G-6 / 4 mm. Optional: Additional hook 1–2 sizes larger than gauge-size hook (for hem).

Notions: Stitch markers.

GAUGE
One granny stitch diamond (18 sts and 11 rows) measures 4’’ / 10 cm wide and 3.25’’ / 8.5 cm tall measured over main st patt with G-6 / 4 mm hook, after blocking.

NOTES
This top is worked from the top down. The initial construction begins with short rows, then it is joined in rounds for the yoke. The upper front and back panel are worked separately in rows to form the armholes, then the body is finished by working in joined rounds until the hem. The sleeves are crocheted separately from the main body and are sewn on after the body is completed. Lastly, the neck ribbing is worked in back loop slip-stitches for a stretchy, defined edge.

The main stitch pattern consists of shell stitch diamonds (granny stitch) and “spiders” (combinations of chains and single crochet).