DIY: How To Crochet A Fringe Vest! Free Crochet Pattern for July 4th!

Hello there! Seeing as July 4th is swiftly approaching, I thought I'd whip up a free crochet project that would be super easy to create just in time for the weekend!

Ingredients:    
Crochet Hook>> H/8-5.50MM 
Craft Scissors  
Yarn Sewing Needle
Yarn used>>3 Skeins of  from Sugar N' Cream

Size Small/Medium & Large

Stitch guide:   

DC= double crochet

SC= single crochet
SS= slip stitch
ST(S)= stitch(es)
CH= chain
R[number]= Row

To start the BACK of the vest first.

[CH 51 for Small/Medium] [CH 67 for Large] or half desired waist measurement

R1: HDC into every ST for the entire first Row, turn work when complete.

R2-R5: DC into the first ST, CH 1, Skip 1 ST, DC into the following ST..[Repeat this method until the end of every single Row.]
[Extend from R5 for extra length]

Next, to create the back.
Skip the first and last 16 STS and Insert hook into the 17 ST. For 18 STS ONLY.
R6-R10: DC into the first ST, CH 1, Skip 1 ST, DC into the following ST..[Repeat this method until the end of every single Row.]

To create the straps of the vest. Both sides.
Insert hook, For 7 STS only left side, leave middle ST empty, Insert hook for 7 STS only right side. 
R11-R15: DC into the first ST, CH 1, Skip 1 ST, DC into the following ST..[Repeat this method until the end of every single Row.] SS to complete work.

For the FRONT of the Vest.  

[Note: You will be creating this piece TWICE. With alternating armholes.]

[CH 26 for Small/Medium] [CH 34 for Large] or half desired waist measurement

R1: HDC into every ST for the entire first Row, turn work when complete.

R2-R5: DC into the first ST, CH 1, Skip 1 ST, DC into the following ST..[Repeat this method until the end of every single Row.]

Next, to create the armholes. [Reminder: You will alternate where you insert your hook, for the right and left side of the top armhole.]

Skip the first and last 16 STS and Insert hook into the 17 ST. For 10 STS ONLY.
R6-R15: DC into the first ST, CH 1, Skip 1 ST, DC into the following ST..[Repeat this method until the end of every single Row.] SS to complete work.

Next, You will sew ALL of the pieces together, utilizing your yarn sewing needle and cut yarn. 

Sew the front sides to the back portion of the vest. Leave the armholes open as well as the neckline.

For the finishing technique.
SC around the entire finished sewn together vest only once, then SS to complete work.

Next, to create the fringe. OPTIONAL.
Fringe will be placed unto the BOTTOM of the vest.
You will cut 20-25 strands, depending on if you want more, cut 2 inches.
You will insert each strand into every other ST using your crochet hook to insert strand. Then bringing the strand together to knot it to the vest.

ashlee elle.