crochet tank

sept 2022

This is my first crochet piece that I actually completed. Ta-da! 

This project was exactly what I needed during a time of unrest and hopelessness. Allowing my hands and head to be fully immersed in creating something new, learning the quirks of mohair yarn, improvising each stitch as I went, and watching something develop out of nothing. I picked up crocheting during the pandemic (no surprise there) and I never finished my first crochet project (again, no surprise there). To be fair it was an extremely complex first project, a multi-color sweater made of 30+ squares which ended up becoming coasters.

Pinterest inspo photo

But recently I was reminded and encouraged by a few friends who create clothes as well. Just a little nudge and accountability from a fellow amateur crocheter got me back into the groove. We went to Downtown Yarns and both fell enamored with this mohair gradient yarn. I was drawn to the black yarn because it provides neutrality and simplicity while the grayish threads elevate it to provide dimension. I knew I wanted something simple and versatile so I went with a tank top. Inspired by this photo.

I actually did not follow a single pattern or tutorial, but rather learning different stitches from several Tik Toks and Youtube videos. I learned how to improvise and create my own pattern based on my vision for this piece. It was such a fun mental and creative exercise. It was frustrating at times and I really wanted to just yank the mohair to shreds but I stuck with it, staying up well past my bedtime. It took me two nights to put it together and I was so eager to wear it on the third day. 

Since it’s ultimately a neutral color, I really have creative freedom in my styling. I can style it up or down, layered or with just a bralette, with jeans and sneakers or more textured leather pants and flats.

Now watch my styling attempts.

Went semi-casual and experimenting with layering. I felt the button up was a bit too clunky under the tank, but I like the white underneath. The jeans to dress it back down and had to finish it off with some classic Chloe flats to bring in that feminine touch and reconnect with the elevated feel of the button down.
Kept it SUPER casual here. Classic plain white tee, baggy jeans, and black high top Converse. Again playing with the layering but toning down the amount of fabric behind the tank. I really wanted the center piece to be the tank top.
Ditched the layers and jeans for a night out look. I love love love the leather pants with this top - it brings in another texture that compliments the yarn well. With a little black bralette underneath really amps up on the sexy. Ohh la la! The flats were just a tester - I think I actually went with black leather boots.

I am still learning how to crochet, but I am so proud of what I was able to create. So next time you see me wearing this tank ask me where it’s from so I can flex and say I made it myself ;)

Next up I want to make a matching bolero with wide sleeves.