PATTERN RELEASE: In the Shell Top

by Lena Fedotova (ravliki on Ravelry)

After I made my first Tunisian Shell design it occurred to me that being "in the shell" is the perfect expression to describe an introvert's desire of being left alone in a comfortable and safe place. That's how my In the Shell. Introvert's Collection started.


My favourite Tunisian shells are worked in the short-row technique using a regular crochet hook. The stitch pattern is simple and it was a lot of fun to play with it while thinking about various possibilities of using it: increases for the hexagonal-shaped blanket, a half-circle element for the straight edge of the shawl, and finally, a more complicated challenge, a garment design.


In the Shell top is worked in the round, and its upper part is worked side to side. It uses half-circle elements for the bottom edge, half-shells for the straight armhole line, and partial shells to tighten the neckline on the back.



The yarn was a pure joy to work with! Lace Merino by Ella Rae from KnittingFever.com is a fingering/4 ply 100% merino. 

When worked in Tunisian simple stitch with a US G (4mm) size hook, this yarn creates a light and delicate fabric, perfect for a summer top or a light vest. I do love merino yarn, it looks magnificent after blocking. 


I appreciate a piece of advice given to me and would like to share it here: when blocking merino, remember that you need to let it dry completely. Merino takes longer to dry than other kinds of wool, and your piece may seem dry, but there may still be some moisture hidden inside, which (if the garment is worn too soon) can cause changes to the fabric tension. So let your merino gorgeousness dry completely! 

Happy crocheting!



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