Materials Needed and Measurements:

Yarn:
- Fingering/Light Fingering weight yarn (3 or 4 ply).
- Suggested yarns: Kokonki Cotton/Acrylic 4ply or Hobbii Dahlia Mixo.
- Yarn type: Natural fibers like cotton or merino. (Avoid pure acrylic as it doesn’t block properly).
- Yardage: 1750–2625 yards (1600–2400 meters), depending on tension and size.
Crochet Hook: 3.5 mm (E).
Other Materials:
- Stitch markers (optional, to help with counting).
- Scissors.
- Tapestry needle (for weaving in ends).
- Measuring tape.

Abbreviations:

Foundation Chain:
- Ch 140 (or a multiple of 10 to fit your bust circumference snugly but not tightly). Ensure the chain is not twisted, then join with a sl st into the first ch to form a circle.
- Tip: If unsure of size, use a measuring tape to compare the foundation chain’s circumference with your bust measurement.
Round 1 (Base Row):
- Ch 2 (counts as the first hdc), work 1 hdc into each ch around.
- Atatch with a sl st to the top of the beginning ch-2.
- You should now have 140 hdc (or your foundation chain count).
Rounds 2-8 (Mesh Pattern for Bodice):
- Ch 2, hdc in the next 9 sts, ch 1, skip 1 st; repeat from to around.
- Bond with a sl st to the top of the beginning ch-2.
- Key Notes:
  - The skipped stitches (ch-1 spaces) will create a slight lace-like mesh pattern, ensuring the bodice is breathable.
  - Ensure the stitch count stays consistent with each round (e.g., 140 sts in total: 126 hdc + 14 ch-1 spaces for the initial count).
Fitting and Adjustments:
- After completing Round 8, place the bodice around your upper body to ensure it fits well and reaches your waistline.
- If needed, add or subtract rounds for a longer or shorter bodice.

Attatching for Skirt Expansion:
- Ch 2 (counts as first dc), then work 2 dc into each st and ch-sp from the last round of the bodice.
- Merge with a sl st to the top of the beginning ch-2.
Round 1 (Increase for Flare):
- Ch 3 (counts as first dc), dc in the next st, 2 dc in the following st; repeat from to around.
- Add with a sl st to the top of the beginning ch-3.
- This round doubles the stitch count, creating a flared skirt effect.
Round 2:
- Ch 3, dc in each dc from the previous round, skipping no stitches; continue until the end.
- Keep with a sl st to the top of the beginning ch-3.
Rounds 3-15 (Mesh Pattern for Skirt):
- Ch 3, dc in the next 4 sts, ch 1, skip 1 st; repeat from to around.
- Join with a sl st to the top of the beginning ch-3.
- Optional for Extra Flare: Every 4th round, add one extra dc into every 10th st to slightly increase the width.

Final Round:
- Ch 1, sc in the next st, ch 3, skip 2 sts; repeat from to around.
- Align with a sl st into the first sc.
Optional Edging (Picot Hemline):
- Ch 1, sc in the first st, ch 3, sl st into the first ch (forms a small point/picot), sc into the next st; repeat around.
- Integrate with a sl st into the first sc.

Attach Yarn for Straps: With the dress laid flat, attach yarn to the front of the bodice about 2 inches from the center on both sides.
Creating Straps:
- Ch 60 (or desired length based on your shoulder-to-back measurement).
- Sl st into the back of the bodice directly opposite the starting point, ensuring the strap lies flat.
- Repeat for the second strap.
Reinforcement: Once both straps are attached, sc across the strap’s length to reinforce and add durability if desired.

Weaving Ends: Using a tapestry needle, weave in all loose ends securely.
Blocking the Dress: Wet block the dress by soaking it in lukewarm water with a gentle detergent, then lay it flat on a towel to dry. Shape the dress to your desired dimensions, ensuring the mesh pattern is open and the hemline is even.

Gauge: Continuously check your gauge, especially during the bodice and skirt rounds. The recommended gauge is 12 sts and 8 rows = 10 cm (4 inches).
Tension: Keep your tension light and consistent for a flowing, drapey effect.
Yarn Choice: For a summer dress, cotton yarn provides excellent breathability and structure.

Enjoy wearing or gifting your Better World Dress!