The Everyday Maxi Dress

Materials Needed & Measurements:

  • Hook Size: 5.00mm
  • Suggested Hook: The Hook Nook Resin Hook in Rose Quartz (available at WeCrochet).
  • Yarn: Hawthorne DK in Bare
    • Quantity: ~6 hanks (1350 yards / 600 grams)
    • Other Yarn Options:
      • Hawthorne Kettle Dye
      • Hawthorne Fingering Multi
      • Hawthorne Speckle Hand-Paint
      • Hawthorne Tonal Hand-Paint
      • Hawthorne Painted Reel
  • Accessories:
    • Scissors
    • Measuring Tape
    • Stitch Markers

Gauge: 4″ x 4″ = 11 stitches x 6 rows

  • Panel Dimensions:
    • Length: 110″
    • Width: 10″
  • Custom Adjustments:
    • Measure the widest part of your body for panel width (e.g., upper thighs).
    • Divide this measurement by 2 to get the width of each panel.
    • Adjust panel length by adding more rows to the beginning or end.

Stitching Instructions for Making The Everyday Maxi Dress Pattern:

Step 1: Create the Foundation Chain

  • Start with a foundation chain equivalent to the desired panel length:
    • For example, ch 275 ch for a 110″ panel length (based on your gauge of 11 stitches per 4″).
    • Adjust this number if your measurements differ.

Step 2: Row 1 – Base Setup

  • Work 1 sc into the second ch from the hook.
  • Continue working 1 sc into each ch across the entire row.
    • This establishes a sturdy and even base for your dress.
  • At the end of the row: Turn your work and ch 2 (does not count as a st).

Step 3: Row 2 – Double Crochet Row

  • Starting in the first st, work 1 dc into each st across the row.
    • Ensure each st is consistent for even texture.
  • At the end of the row: Turn your work and ch 1.

Step 4: Row 3 – Single Crochet Row

  • Work 1 sc into each st across the row.
    • This alternation provides the fabric with a sturdy, yet flexible texture.
  • At the end of the row: Turn your work and ch 2.

Step 5: Continue Stitch Pattern

  • Repeat Rows 2 and 3 alternately to build the body of the panel.
    • For example:
      • Row 4: Work dc across, turn, ch 1.
      • Row 5: Work sc across, turn, ch 2.
    • This alternating pattern gives a balanced combination of stretch and durability.
  • Continue repeating until the panel reaches the desired width (e.g., 10″).
    • Use your measuring tape to confirm the panel’s width matches your custom measurement.

Step 6: Custom Adjustments for Panels

  • To determine the exact panel width:
    • Measure the widest part of your body (e.g., upper thighs).
    • Divide this measurement by 2 for each panel’s width.
    • For example, if your widest part is 40″, each panel should be 20″ wide.
    • Adjust the number of stitches in your rows accordingly.
  • To adjust panel length: Add or reduce rows to reach your desired measurement (e.g., longer or shorter maxi length).

Step 7: Create the Second Panel

  • Repeat the above steps to create a second identical panel.

Step 8: Assembly

  • Place the two panels flat with the right sides facing inward.
  • Use sl st or a tapestry needle to seam the panels together:
    • Side Seams: Seam from the bottom up, leaving openings for the armholes.
    • Shoulder Seams: Seam across the top, leaving a neckline opening as desired.
    • Use stitch markers to mark where the seams start and stop for precision.

Step 9: Finishing Touches

  • Neckline:
    • Attach yarn to the neckline with a sl st.
    • Work 1 sc evenly around the entire neckline.
    • Attach with a sl st, fasten off, and weave in ends.
  • Armholes:
    • Attach yarn at the armhole edge.
    • Work 1 sc around each armhole for a clean edge.
    • Bond with a sl st, fasten off, and weave in ends.
  • Hemline:
    • Attach yarn at the bottom hem with a sl st.
    • Work 2-3 rows of sc or dc for a polished finish.

Step 10: Final Blocking

  • Lay the dress flat and gently block it to shape:
    • Use a steamer or damp cloth to relax the stitches and ensure the panels align properly.
    • Allow to dry completely before wearing.

Tips for Customization

  • Straps: Add optional shoulder straps by chaining and attaching them at the desired points using sl st.
  • Slits: Leave a portion of the side seams unstitched for movement-friendly side slits.
  • Colorwork: Use different yarn colors or patterns (e.g., stripes or gradients) for a unique look.

By following these instructions, you’ll have a versatile and elegant Everyday Maxi Dress that’s customizable to fit your unique measurements and style preferences.

Download PDF

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *