With checkerboard patterns trending hard, I decided it was finally time to crochet this cute sundress from one of my old 1970s needlework magazines — and I want to share the pattern with you! You could make the full dress or just the top part to have a checkered tank top. Here is the PDF, which you can download or print:
There are 3 sizes available, up to bust size 38″ — these older patterns unfortunately come in a very limited size range. My bust measurement is 32″ and I made the smallest size even though it is slightly smaller than my measurements, because the stretchiness of the dress makes up for the negative ease. So there is a little wiggle room. Also, each checkerboard square is about 1 1/4″ wide, so it is certainly possible to increase the size of the dress bodice by adding additional squares or half squares at the edges, if you’re feeling up to the challenge! While I’m not experienced at adjusting pattern sizes, I’m handy with math and will attempt to help if requested.
The yarn I used is Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton, which feels wonderful. The colors are Pink and Tangerine. It softened a bit in the wash but still kept its sheen and didn’t pill.
I would note the yarn did relax slightly when washed, so even though I laid the dress flat and shaped it to dry, the dress is a tiny bit longer after washing than before! If I made the dress again with the same yarn, I would subtract a few of the solid rows from the skirt. Just something to keep in mind.
The bodice is shaped with elastic at the top and the waist. For the top part, I used thin elastic cord doubled, and for the waist I used 1-inch wide tan elastic from Joann’s and created a casing for it by stitching yarn in a zigzag pattern all the way around the waist on the inside of the dress.
The dress is very comfortable and always gets compliments when I wear it out!
Please let me know if you make this pattern or have any questions! Enjoy!