Stoney Creek Sleeveless Tee: A Beginner Crochet Sweater Pattern

Hey there! Welcome to the fascinating world of crocheting, where the possibilities are endless and the rewards are abundant. I’m so excited to share with you thie free crochet sweater pattern for the Stoney Creek Sleeveless Crochet Tee, a simple design that can be enjoyed by beginners and seasoned crochet enthusiasts alike.

What makes this particular pattern so captivating is its combination of simplicity and intrigue. The unique pattern in combination with the yarn draws you in, keeping your interest every step of the way. As you work on this project, you’ll find that it not only provides a relaxing and therapeutic experience but also offers a wonderful sense of accomplishment.

Whether you’re just starting out or have been crocheting for years, this crochet top pattern is for you. With easy to read instructions, simple construction, and a stitch pattern that is easy to memorize, you will love makaing this crochet sweater pattern (without sleeves!)

So grab your crochet hooks, find a cozy spot, and get ready to crochet a sweater pattern in a few days! The secrets to creating something wonderful await you, and I’m thrilled to be by your side throughout this exciting adventure. Let’s get started and let your creative juices flow!

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Beginner Crocheters Can Make a Sweater?

Short answer is YES, as a beginner you can absolutely make a crochet sweater, crochet pullover, or a crochet vest. It only takes a few skills to understand how the shaping is achieved and with a good pattern by a reputable crochet designer, you will have success.

Let’s get excited about crocheting your first garment project with our beginner-friendly Stoney Creek design. Delight in the simplicity of using a single half double crochet stitch through the back loop to create this stylish, versatile tee. Marvel as the Caron Cotton Cakes yarn adds a touch of elegance to your design, freeing you from worrying about color transitions.

How Long to Crochet a Tee?

Crocheting a tee can vary in time depending on a few factors, primarily the actual hours dedicated to the crafting process and how quickly you actually crochet. For the Stoney Creek Sleeveless Crochet Tee, many of my crochet testers have found that, with consistent effort, it’s completely feasible to finish within a week. However, if you’re planning some dedicated crochet time, a weekend offers a good chunk of time to make significant progress, if not complete it. It’s all about pacing and enjoying the process!Creating this crochet tee is an easy weekend project, perfect for crochet enthusiasts seeking to add staple pieces to their wardrobe.

Choosing the Best Crochet Yarn for Stoney Creek

Once you have a crochet pattern you love (get the ad-free pdf here), the next adventure is choosing the perFect yarn. The Stoney Creek crochet journey needs the ideal yarn. We found that the Caron Cotton Cakes, a fabulous cotton and acrylic blend, really suites this design. This yarn type not only contributes to the structural integrity of the garment but also enhances the tactile pleasure of handling it during the crochet process.

When it comes to choosing your yarn for the Stoney Creek Tee, consider its ease of use during crocheting, its maintaining qualities post-wash, and its comfortability when worn. The Caron Cotton Cakes checks all these boxes, providing an optimal crocheting experience while ensuring the crafted garment is both beautiful to look at and delightful to wear. It is also a great yarn for beginners to use.

The beauty of the Caron Cotton Cakes yarn lies in its color flexibility, making it an excellent choice for this versatile crochet tank top. Unlike traditional yarns that require careful color transition calculation, this yarn allows you to simply let the cake work up as it wants while still achieving a stunning design. This spontaneity aligns perfectly with Marly’s vision for a simple yet captivating crochet sweater pattern.

Interestingly, other crochet enthusiasts have found new love in the Macchiato Cakes yarn, an 80% acrylic/20% wool blend from Caron Cakes. The eagerness of these crocheters to share their creations with us keeps the excitement growing around the Stoney Creek Sleeveless Tee project, proving that the right yarn choice can indeed elevate the overall crochet experience.

The Stoney Creek sleeveless tee free crochet pattern involves mastering a fundamental crochet stitch. This stitch, the half double crochet through the back loop, offers the perfect blend of simplicity for beginners and appeal for the experienced. It forms an integral part of this beginner-level crochet pattern, that’s both straightforward to understand and interesting to work on.

Crochet Reference Library for Crochet Definitions, Abbreviations, and Stitch Diagram Symbols - Marly Bird

Learn more about different crochet stitches, crochet techniques, and all the crochet stitch diagram symbols in this comprehensive guide!

Crocheting the Stoney Creek Tee revolves around the beauty of repeating this stitch, revealing a texture that leaves you mesmerized. It’s the harmony of this stitch pattern that results in a unique fabric canvas to bring the design of this tee to life. It is easy, simple and ideal for a first-time garment project and enticing enough for experienced crocheters.

But it’s not all about mastering a single stitch. There is also an introduction to foundational shaping concepts, offering practical lessons for beginners interested in garment construction. The Stoney Creek Tee pattern presents itself as an excellent hands-on way to comprehend these core crochet principles. Importantly, ensure you fully understand the half double crochet stitch, both in its own right and when incorporated into the pattern. This familiarity with the stitch will aid you tremendously in crafting a tee that matches the given pattern size. Think of it as blending creativity and precision into a rewarding craft project.

How to Add Personal Touches to Your DIY Crochet Sleeveless Sweater

Adding personal touches to your Stoney Creek Sleeveless Crochet Tee makes it uniquely yours. The first option could be to play around with the color scheme. Using the Caron Cotton Cakes yarn allows for an array of beautiful color choices; you don’t have to stick to the original. Go bold, soft, neutral or multi-colored – the choice is yours.

Another way to personalize your tee is by adapting the pattern size. The crafting instructions provide a size-inclusive range from XS to 5X. However, for those educated in crochet, adjusting your pattern beyond these sizes might be as simple as a few additional calculations. Thus, enabling every crocheter to have a sleeveless tee that truly fits.

Furthermore, consider the overall cut and style of the Stoney Creek Tee to match your comfort level. While the design is default snug-fit around the bust and flared at the hips, feel free to adjust these proportions. After all, this is your creation, and it should be as comfortable and flattering as you envision it. I am modeling the 3xl size over a size 20 button down white shirt to give you a size perspective.

Finally, toy with what to pair your sleeveless tee. Layer it over a turtleneck for a fall-ready look, or wear it solo during the warmer months. Belts, scarfs, and even statement jewelry can also transform this simple tee into a chic wardrobe staple. Mix and match these effects until you have a garment that screams “you”. Ultimately, the Stoney Creek Tee is a canvas awaiting your custom personal touch.

three images of the Stoney Creek Sleeveless Crochet tee. Far Left is a close up of Marly Bird wearing the tee over a button down white shirt, the top right is the tee on a plus size mannequin, and the bottom right is the tee laying flat on a table with the Caron Cotton Cakes Yarn on top - Marly Bird

Maintaining Your Handmade Stoney Creek Top for Longevity

Ensuring the longevity of your handmade Stoney Creek Top starts with proper care. A blend of cotton and acrylic, the recommended Caron Cotton Cakes yarn, is easy to maintain. It’s resilient and can withstand the washing process while preserving the original look and integrity of your sleeveless tee. Washing the top on a gentle cycle with mild detergent and cool water can be a wise choice to prevent the yarn colors from fading. Avoiding bleach and wringing out the top violently can maintain the garment’s shape and color vibrancy.

After washing, allow the top to dry flat where it isn’t exposed to direct sunlight to maintain its shape and color as well. When storing, folding the top neatly, away from direct sunlight will protect the color and the shape. Using mothballs or cedar blocks can drive away pests that might damage the yarn. If mild wrinkles appear, ironing the top on a low heat setting can help maintain its crisp look.

Last but not least, treat snags or loose ends promptly to avoid causing more significant damage to the crochet work. Minor repairs may arise over time, but with gentle handling and care, the Stoney Creek Top retains its beauty, ready to accompany you through many seasons, year in and year out. Display it with pride, knowing it is a testament to your crochet craftsmanship brilliance.

What are the Big Take-Aways for this Crochet Vest Pattern.

Well, first, it is a free pattern here on the Marly Bird website. But you can also purchase an ad-free PDF for easy printing and to take with you as you work on your crochet sweater. Making it easy to make notes on the pattern and maybe use tick marks to count how many rows you have done on each side.

Also, this sleeveless tee adapts from summer to fall with minimal fuss. Working with a cotton and acrylic blend promises a smooth crocheting experience coupled with comfortable wear and an effortless washing experience.

Plus, (this is my favorite part of the pattern) the Stoney provides a flattering fit for all body types, thanks to its classic square neckline and A-line hem design. The tee is meant to offer a snug fit at the bust, transforming into a breezy flare around the hips. Wearing it brings a sense of joy and accomplishment, as evidenced by Marly’s beaming happiness.

Marly Bird is standing in a green field with grass and trees behind her with her hands up like she is cheering while she is wearing the Stoney Creek Sleeveless Crochet tee over a button down white shirt and a pair of blue jeans - Marly Bird

Remember, the Stoney Creek is size-inclusive, catering to sizes from XS to 5X. Whether you wish to wear it alone or paired with a shirt, the tee exudes charm on any figure. Its pattern is free on the MarlyBird.com website, and an ad-free pdf version is offered at a friendly price as a cherry on top.

Don’t forget to Favorite this Pattern and Queue it up on Ravelry!

Favorite This Pattern on Ravelry - Marly Bird

Stoney Creek Sleeveless Crochet Tee Pattern Details

Designed by Marly Bird

SKILL LEVEL

Adventurous Beginner

MEASUREMENTS

To Fit Sizes

XS (S, M, L, XL, 2X, 3X, 4X, 5X), The top should be close-fitting with no ease at the chest, but positive ease around the hips. Top shown is 3X.

Finished Measurements

Bust 29 (33, 37, 41, 45, 49, 53, 57, 61)” [73.5 (84, 94, 104, 114.5, 124.5, 134.5, 145, 155) cm]

Hip 44 (48, 52, 56, 60, 64, 68, 72, 76)” [112 (122, 132, 142, 152.5, 162.5, 172.5, 183, 193) cm]

Length 28 (29, 30, 31, 32, 32, 32, 33, 34)” [71 (73.5, 76, 78.5, 81.5, 81.5, 81.5, 84, 86.5) cm]

Gauge

16 sts and 8 rows = 4″ (10 cm) in hdc tfl using larger hook; use any size hook to obtain the gauge. 

MATERIALS

Yarn

Yarnspirations™ Caron®, Cotton Cakes (60% cotton, 40% acrylic, 530 yds / 485 m, 8¾ oz/ 250 g, CYCA# 4 worsted) 

Cracked Pepper, 2 (2, 2, 3, 3, 3, 3, 4, 4) cakes

Hooks

Size I/9 (5.5 mm) or size needed to obtain gauge and H/8 (5.0 mm) or one size smaller then hook needed for gauge

Notions

Removable stitch markers, tapestry needle.

ABBREVIATIONS

Ch – Chain

Hdc – Half Double Crochet

RS – Right Side

Sc – Single Crochet

Sl St – Slip Stitch

Tfl – Through Front Loop

WS – Wrong Side

SPECIAL STITCHES 

⭐️ Single Crochet Three Together (sc3tog): *Insert hook into indicated stitch, yarn over and pull up a loop; repeat from * in next 2 stitches indicated, yarn over and draw through all 4 loops on hook.

NOTES

  • This tank is worked from shoulders down in two pieces, then seamed together and accented with an edging.
  • Directions are for size XS; changes for sizes S, M, L, XL, 2X, 3X, 4X, and 5X are in parentheses. When only one number is given then that number applies to all sizes.
Stoney Creek Sleeveless Crochet Tee Schematic - Marly Bird

VIDEO TUTORIALS

STONEY CREEK SLEEVELESS CROCHET TEE PATTERN

BACK

Shoulders

Using larger hook, ch 14 (14, 16, 16, 18, 18, 20, 20, 22).

Row 1 (RS): Hdc in 3rd ch from hook and in each ch to end – 12 (12, 14, 14, 16, 16, 18, 18, 20) hdc.

Row 2: Ch 2, hdc tfl in each hdc to end.

Fasten off.

Work other shoulder the same, but do not fasten off.

Join Shoulders

Row 1 (RS): Ch 2, hdc tfl in each hdc to end, ch 30 (32, 32, 36, 36, 38, 38, 38, 38), hdc tfl in each hdc of first shoulder – 54 (56, 60, 64, 68, 70, 74, 74, 78) sts including ch sts.

Row 2: Ch 2, hdc tfl in each of first 12 (12, 14, 14, 16, 16, 18, 18, 20) hdc, hdc in each of next 30 (32, 32, 36, 36, 38, 38, 38, 38) ch, hdc in each of last 12 (12, 14, 14, 16, 16, 18, 18, 20) hdc – 54 (56, 60, 64, 68, 70, 74, 74, 78) hdc.

Work 12 (14, 14, 16, 15, 13, 11, 10, 8) more rows evenly in hdc tfl.

Increase for Underarm

For Last 5 Sizes Only:

Next row (increase row): Ch 2, hdc tfl in each of first 2 hdc, 2 hdc tfl in next hdc, hdc tfl in each hdc to last 3 hdc, 2 hdc tfl in next hdc, hdc in each of last 2 hdc – x (x, x, x, 70, 72, 76, 76, 80) hdc.

Repeat this increase row x (x, x, x, 0, 2, 4, 7, 9) more times – x (x, x, x, 70, 76, 84, 90, 98) hdc.

For All Sizes:

Fasten off.

Add Width for Bust

Row 1 (RS): Using larger hook, ch 2 (5, 7, 9, 10, 11, 11, 12, 12), hdc tfl in each hdc across Back, ch 4 (7, 9, 11, 12, 13, 13, 14, 14).

Row 2: Skip 2 ch, hdc in 3rd ch from hook and in each of next 1 (4, 6, 8, 9, 10, 10, 11, 11) ch, hdc tfl in each hdc to last ch 2 (5, 7, 9, 10, 11, 11, 12, 12), hdc in each of last ch 2 (5, 7, 9, 10, 11, 11, 12, 12) ch – 58 (66, 74, 82, 90, 98, 106, 114, 122) hdc.

Work 4 (4, 4, 2, 2, 2, 0, 0, 0) more rows evenly in hdc tfl.

Shape A-Line to Hip

Place marker in 10th hdc from each end.

Row 1 (increase row, RS): Ch 2, hdc tfl in each hdc to 1 hdc before marker, 2 hdc tfl in next hdc, hdc tfl in marked hdc, move marker up to hdc just made, hdc tfl in each hdc to marker, hdc tfl in marked hdc, move marker up to hdc just made, 2 hdc tfl in next hdc, hdc tfl in each hdc to end – 60 (68, 76, 84, 92, 100, 108, 116, 124) hdc.

Row 2: Ch 2, hdc tfl in each hdc to end, moving markers up as you go whenever working into a marked st.

Repeat the last 2 rows 14 more times – 88 (96, 104, 112, 120, 128, 136, 144, 152) hdc

Work 4 (4, 6, 8, 10, 10, 12, 12, 14) more rows evenly in hdc tfl.

Fasten off.

FRONT

Shoulders

Using larger hook, ch 14 (14, 16, 16, 18, 18, 20, 20, 22) 

Row 1 (RS): Hdc in 3rd ch from hook and in each ch to end – 12 (12, 14, 14, 16, 16, 18, 18, 20) hdc.

Next 3 (3, 3, 5, 5, 5, 5, 5, 5) rows: Ch 2, hdc tfl in each hdc to end.

Fasten off.

Work other shoulder the same, but do not fasten off.

Join Shoulders

Row 1 (RS): Ch 2, hdc tfl in each hdc to end, ch 30 (32, 32, 36, 36, 38, 38, 38, 38), hdc tfl in each hdc of first shoulder – 54 (56, 60, 64, 68, 70, 74, 74, 78) sts including ch sts.

Row 2: Ch 2, hdc tfl in each of first 12 (12, 14, 14, 16, 16, 18, 18, 20) hdc, hdc in each of next 30 (32, 32, 36, 36, 38, 38, 38, 38) ch, hdc in each of last 12 (12, 14, 14, 16, 16, 18, 18, 20) hdc – 54 (56, 60, 64, 68, 70, 74, 74, 78) hdc.

Work 10 (12, 12, 12, 11, 9, 7, 6, 4) more rows evenly in hdc tfl.

Work Underarm, Bust and A-Line Shaping same as Back.

FINISHING

Steam block pieces to measurements.

Sew shoulder and side seams.

Neck Edging

Using smaller hook, and with RS facing, join yarn anywhere along back neck.

Round 1 (RS): Ch 1, sc evenly around neck edge, working a sc3tog at each inner corner, join with sl st in first sc, do not turn.

Round 2: Ch 1, * sc in each sc to 1 st before corner decrease, sc3tog over next 3 sts; repeat from * 3 more times, sc in each sc to end, join with sl st in first sc.

Fasten off.

Armhole Edging

Using smaller hook, and with RS facing, join yarn to armhole at shoulder seam.

Round 1 (RS): Ch 1, sc evenly around armhole edge, working a sc3tog at each inner corner, join with sl st in first sc, do not turn.

Round 2: Ch 1, * sc in each sc to 1 st before corner decrease, sc3tog over next 3 sts; repeat from * once more, sc in each sc to end, join with sl st in first sc.

Fasten off.

Weave in all loose ends.

Don’t forget to share with us on Social Media! use #MMMDI and #MarlyBird on instagram so I can smash your like button and we can all jump for joy!

Marly Bird wearing the Stoney Creek Sleeveless Crochet Tee pattern and jumping for joy

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Marly Bird

The One and Only, Marly

Marly is a knitwear and crochet designer (and yarn addict) that is here to help you learn how to knit and crochet in a way that's fun and approachable.

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