crochet bra cup sizing
Crochet bra cups can be such a daunting task. Everyone has different size breasts and it’s so hard to cater to all of these sizes, so naturally we (as in us crocheters) steer clear of even making anything with bra cups!
The Summer season brings in a lot of halter tops and bikinis that require knowledge on how to make a crochet bra cup. I made a ton of halter tops last year and I had to go through so much trial and error for fitting, but I finally got it down once I figured out sizing standards.
There are a lot of things to consider when creating a bra cup:
- Stitch Type. Stitches like the Double Crochet (DC) and Half-Double Crochet (HDC) stitches can have gaps/spaces between each stitch, which may create mini Janet Jackson moment where you show a nipple. I always opt for the Single Crochet (SC) stitch because it’s simple, tight, and builds confidence for the individual wearing it
- Dimension. You don’t want a flat cup! We want shape and dimension or else we have a side boob situation and not many women want that.
- Cup Width. The width of your cup can be of individual preference; however, you typically want to ensure that the cups are wide enough to cover the breasts properly. Further down in this blog, you can see a basic size chart that can be used as reference to size your cups.
- Fiber Type. Most crocheters that are making bra cups are using the cups for bikini tops and halter tops. If that’s the case, it’s likely the individual wearing the top is going to be in a hot environment. Cotton is by far one of the best fibers to use . In my experience, mercerized cotton probably isn’t the best choice (i.e., Lion Brand 24/7, Yarnspirations Paton Grace, etc). I only say that because I think regular cotton yarns like Paintbox Yarns Cotton Aran and Paintbox Yarns Cotton DK are perfect and look much nicer for the finished product. This is totally an individual preference!
Basic triangle bra cup pattern
Materials for Pattern Tutorial:
- 3.75 mm / F Crochet Hook (I’m a tight stitcher, so you can use a 3.50 mm)
- Paintbox Yarns Cotton Aran or any other Weight 4 Yarn
- Measuring Tape
Pattern Notes:
- This pattern creates a triangle cup that can be modified for sizing preference.
- Every person has a different body and shape. These are recommended sizes and you can adjust as needed.
- In the “3 SC” of each row, add a stitch marker into the 2nd SC. This will help you know where to place your “3 SC” in each row.
- Your Foundation Row should measure approximately 3 Inches. If you want to change the number of chains to meet this length, a chart is available below. You will need to add or subtract 2 stitches for each chain you add or subtract to the Foundation Row.
- Please watch our YouTube Video tutorial for assistance.
Foundation Row: Chain 15 (This should measure approximately 3 Inches)
Row 1: In the 2nd Chain from the hook, SC 13 across. In the next stitch, 3 SC. Working on the opposite side of your row, SC 13. Ch 1, turn. (29 sts).
Row 2: Starting in the first stitch, SC 14 across. In the next stitch, 3 SC. SC 14. Ch 1, turn. (31 sts)
Row 3: Starting in the first stitch, SC 15 across. In the next stitch, 3 SC. SC 15. Ch 1, turn. (33 sts)
Row 4: Starting in the first stitch, SC 16 across. In the next stitch, 3 SC. SC 16. Ch 1, turn. (35 sts)
Continue this pattern sequence until you reach your desired cup width (see chart below)