The Driftwood Drape: A Free Crochet Pattern for a Textured, Asymmetrical Cowl Vest
The Driftwood Drape: A Free Crochet Pattern for a Textured, Asymmetrical Cowl Vest
Wrap yourself in the cozy, organic texture of the Driftwood Drape, a modern crochet cowl vest that combines a dramatic asymmetrical hem with a plush, all-over stitch pattern. This free pattern is perfect for advanced beginners looking to create a statement layering piece with a handcrafted, artisan feel. The rich, basket-like texture and deep cowl collar make this vest a standout addition to any fall or winter wardrobe.
Materials Needed
- Yarn: Worsted weight (Category 4) yarn. Shown in Lion Brand Wool-Ease Thick & Quick in 'Fisherman' (approx 350-400 yards for S/M, 450-500 yards for L/XL).
- Hook: Size J-10 (6.0 mm) crochet hook, or size needed to obtain gauge.
- Gauge: 12 stitches x 8 rows = 4 inches in pattern stitch (after blocking).
- Other: Yarn needle for weaving ends, scissors, measuring tape, blocking pins/mat (optional but recommended).
Step-by-Step Instructions
Sizes & Finished Measurements
- Sizes: S/M (L/XL)
- Width across back: 18 (22) inches
- Length from shoulder to longest point: 28 (32) inches
Stitches & Abbreviations (US terms)
- ch = chain
- sc = single crochet
- dc = double crochet
- fpdc = front post double crochet
- bpdc = back post double crochet
- sk = skip
- st(s) = stitch(es)
- rep = repeat
- RS = right side
- WS = wrong side
Pattern Stitch (Multiple of 2 + 1)
Row 1 (RS): Ch 1, sc in first st, *fpdc in next st, sc in next st; rep from * across. Turn.
Row 2: Ch 1, sc in first st, *bpdc in next st, sc in next st; rep from * across. Turn.
Rep Rows 1-2 for pattern.
Back Panel (Make 2 identical pieces)
Note: You will make two identical back panels. These will be sewn together at the center back later.
Ch 37 (45).
Row 1 (RS): Sc in 2nd ch from hook, *fpdc in next ch, sc in next ch; rep from * across. Turn. (36/44 sts)
Row 2: Ch 1, sc in first st, *bpdc in next st, sc in next st; rep from * across. Turn.
Continue in pattern stitch until piece measures 18 (22) inches from beginning, ending with a WS row. Fasten off.
Left Front Panel
Ch 19 (23).
Row 1 (RS): Sc in 2nd ch from hook, *fpdc in next ch, sc in next ch; rep from * across. Turn. (18/22 sts)
Row 2: Ch 1, sc in first st, *bpdc in next st, sc in next st; rep from * across. Turn.
Continue in pattern stitch until piece measures 14 (16) inches from beginning, ending with a WS row.
Shape Neckline
Next Row (RS): Work in pattern across first 12 (14) sts. Turn, leaving remaining sts unworked.
Continue on these 12 (14) sts until piece measures 18 (22) inches from beginning, ending with a WS row. Fasten off.
Right Front Panel
Work same as Left Front Panel, but shape neckline on the opposite side. To do this, when you reach 14 (16) inches, work across the last 12 (14) sts on the RS, leaving the first 6 (8) sts unworked. Continue on these 12 (14) sts until piece measures 18 (22) inches from beginning, ending with a WS row. Fasten off.
Assembly
- Sew back panels together: With RS together, sew the two back panels together along the center back edge. This creates one large back piece.
- Sew shoulder seams: Place Back Panel and Front Panels with RS together. Sew the top 6 (8) inches of the side edges together for shoulder seams. This will leave the neckline opening in the front.
- Sew side seams: With RS together, sew the side edges together, leaving a 10 (12) inch opening for armholes, starting 2 inches below the shoulder seam. This means you will sew from the bottom hem up to 2 inches below the shoulder seam, then stop. The unsewn portion is the armhole.
Cowl Collar
With RS facing, join yarn at the center back neck. Work 1 round of sc evenly around the entire neckline. Be sure to work into the edge stitches of both the back and front panels, including the shaped neckline edges. Count your stitches to ensure an even number (multiple of 2 + 1 is ideal for the pattern stitch).
Then work in pattern stitch (Rows 1-2) for 6 inches. Work in the round by joining each round with a slip stitch to the first sc, then ch 1 to start the next round. For the pattern stitch in the round, work Row 1 as written (sc, fpdc, sc...), and Row 2 as written (sc, bpdc, sc...). Repeat these two rounds until the collar measures 6 inches. Fasten off.
Finishing
- Weave in all ends securely using a yarn needle.
- Block to measurements, focusing on opening up the stitch pattern. Wet block or steam block as preferred. Pin to the finished measurements listed above and allow to dry completely.
- Optional: Add a single button or pin at the center front to close the vest if desired. Sew the button onto the left front panel, and create a loop on the right front panel, or simply use a decorative pin.
Your Driftwood Drape is complete! Enjoy the cozy, textured warmth of your handmade asymmetrical cowl vest.
