How to Create Your Own Crochet Matching Set: Camisole and Shorts

Crocheting your own matching set is a fun and satisfying way to expand your handmade wardrobe. A crochet set that includes a stylish camisole and coordinating shorts is perfect for lounging, summer outings, or even as a beach cover-up.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating a beautiful crochet matching set that’s both comfortable and fashionable.

Materials You’ll Need:

• Yarn: Opt for a lightweight, breathable cotton yarn for maximum comfort.

• Hook: Check the yarn label for the recommended hook size; usually, a 3.5mm to 5mm works well for apparel.

• Scissors and Yarn Needle: Essential for cutting and weaving in ends.

• Measuring Tape: To ensure your set fits perfectly.

• Yarn bowl: To make sure your yarn won’t tangle

• Stitch Markers: Helpful for marking stitches and sections.

• Decoration: You could add chains and shells to your liking.

Basic Stitches to Practise:

Book for Starters

Watch these tutorials on YouTube before you start to work on your matching set, to avoid errors and irritations.

You could also buy this book when you have a preference for analog tutorials where you have easy acces to for ever.

Step 1: Making the Camisole Top

1. Part 1: Breast Section with Tunisian Simple Stitch

   1. Foundation Chain: Measure across your bust and chain enough to match the width. Ensure the chain is divisible by 2.

   2. Tunisian Simple Stitch (TSS):

      • Insert your hook into the second chain from the hook, yarn over, and pull up a loop. Keep these loops on your hook.

      • Continue across the row until all stitches are on the hook.

      • For the return pass, yarn over and pull through one loop (chain 1), then yarn over and pull through two loops repeatedly until one loop remains.

   3. Repeat TSS Rows: Continue working in TSS until the breast section reaches your desired height (typically from the top of the bust to just below it).

   Part 2: Bottom Half with Open Shell Stitch

   1. Transition Row: Work a row of single crochet (sc) to transition from the TSS section to the shell stitch.

   2. Open Shell Stitch Pattern:

      • Row 1: Chain 3 (counts as dc), skip two stitches, and work 5 double crochets into the next stitch, skip two stitches, and slip stitch into the next. Repeat across.

      • Row 2: Chain 3, work 5 double crochets into the center of each shell from the previous row, and slip stitch into the space between shells.

   3. Repeat Shell Stitch Rows: Continue until the bottom half reaches your desired length.

   Finishing and Straps

   1. Straps: Create two long chains for straps and work single crochets into them. Attach them securely to the front and back of the camisole.

   2. Edging: Add a final row of slip stitches or picot edging for a polished look.

Step 2: Creating the Shorts

1. Start with the Waistband: Chain to fit your waist snugly. Join to form a circle and work in single crochet for 5-7 rounds to create a stretchy waistband.

2. Body of the Shorts: Transition to double crochet for the main body, working in continuous rounds. Add simple increases for a comfortable fit.

3. Divide for Legs: Split your round into two halves and work each leg separately in rounds of double crochet. Use stitch markers to keep track.

4. Finishing Touches: Add picot edging to the bottom of the shorts or lace trims for an elegant look.

Customization Tips:

• Adjust Length: Shorten or lengthen the camisole and shorts to your preference.

• Add Color: Incorporate stripes or color-blocking for a vibrant design.

• Embroidery: Add floral or geometric embroidery for an extra touch.

Need more practise? Try this book with tutorials of 200 chrochet stitches.

Final Thoughts:

Creating your own crochet matching set not only showcases your creativity but also allows you to wear clothing that truly fits and suits your style. Whether you choose to keep it simple or add intricate details, this DIY project is bound to become a cherished part of your wardrobe.