Hello everyone!

Today the Around the World Stitch-A-Long starts on Ravelry and 10 of my patterns are now 25% off with the code SAL2026. You can find them all in this bundle.

The current heat doesn't let me think about anything too complex: I crochet the simplest stitches and choose simple constructions. So in this newsletter I'd like to share a bit more about the construction of two tops from the bundle: the StarOver top and the Wave top.

These two tops are great examples of simple, size-as-you-go construction.

In fact, you can start either of these tops right away with any yarn weight you like. Literally:

• from lace weight for something almost weightless and airy;

• or fingering, sport, DK, worsted... whatever gives you the drape and fabric you like best.

You don’t have to worry about gauge, because both tops begin as a single motif (an octagon for the StarOver top and a square for the Wave top).

As the motif grows, the top grows too, both in width and length. You simply stop crocheting when you feel the size is right for you.

The shaping is different for each top, but in both cases it doesn't affect the size-as-you-go idea.

For the StarOver top, all the shaping (the neckline, shoulder joining, sleeves, and filling the gaps between the motifs) is done at the end, once the front and back motifs have reached the desired size.

For the Wave top, the shaping begins much earlier, as soon as the front motif reaches the neckline depth you like. This is also completely up to you: you can make the V-neck shallower or deeper by working fewer or more rows.

Here, in the photo below, I was making two Wave top samples at the same time with different neckline depths to decide which one I prefer. The only difference between them is one extra pattern repeat before joining the front and back together.

After that, the front and back motifs are joined into one piece, and you continue crocheting until the top reaches the size you want.

What I especially like in the Wave top is that it looks wonderful with any sleeve length: as a vest, a short-sleeved top, or a long-sleeved sweater. ◍⁠•⁠ᴗ⁠•⁠◍

I made each of these tops twice for myself, each time using different yarn weight and fiber, and never bothered with upfront calculations.

The only thing to keep in mind is having enough yarn for this kind of size-as-you-go project, or knowing that you can order another skein if you run out. That's why I usually choose yarns that I already have plenty in my stash.

Wishing you relaxed and joyful crochet time. ♥
~ Lena