- 1). Choose a raglan-style crochet sweater pattern that is worked top-down---that is, starting at the shoulders and crocheted in one piece to the bottom hem. Sweaters crocheted in this manner are easiest to fit properly, and will allow you to customize the sweater independently from the pattern's directions. Raglan sweaters---those with increases that extend from the neckline to the underarm---are particularly adaptable for plus sizes.
- 2). Measure yourself at the bust, stomach and hips to get the necessary measurements for your sweater. Be sure to wear the undergarments you plan to wear with the sweater, since undergarments can change your body measurements. The raglan-style sweater will also need the neck to underarm measurement, measured from halfway between the center and side of the neckline, diagonally down under your arm.
- 3). Choose your sweater size by comparing your measurements to the pattern's measurements. If your sweater pattern does not extend to a size 3X, choose the largest size the pattern offers. You will be able to alter the pattern as you go.
- 4). Crochet a gauge swatch and measure it against the pattern's gauge measurement. You may need to adjust your hook size to get the correct gauge.
- 5). Begin crocheting according to the pattern, starting at the neckline and working down to the underarm seam. As you near your raglan neck-to-underarm measurement, try on the sweater. You might need to continue crocheting in pattern until the sweater fits as desired.
- 6). Join the underarm stitches together according to the pattern, and continue crocheting the body of the sweater. Try on the sweater at your biggest measurements, such as the bust, stomach and hips, so any necessary alterations can be made without having to undo large amounts of work later.
- 7). Finish the sleeves, again being sure to try on the sweater so the arms fit comfortably, particularly around the upper shoulder and bicep areas.
- 8). Complete the sweater, weaving in all ends with the yarn needle.