I already wrote an Easy Crochet Top for you (the half double crochet tank), so this one is a different design: a breezy mesh crop top with an open, airy fabric, a square neckline, and tie shoulder straps. It is made from two rectangles and uses only chains, double crochet, and a simple seam. It is light and stretchy, so it is a forgiving fit for a beginner. Wear it over a swimsuit, with high-waisted shorts, or layered over a tee.
Pattern Information
Skill level: Beginner to advanced beginner, using only chains, double crochet, and simple seams.
Terms: US crochet terminology.
Construction: The front and back are identical rectangles worked flat from the bottom up in a mesh stitch. They are seamed at the sides, and the straps are crocheted chains that tie at the shoulders.
Sizes: S (M, L, XL). Finished bust: 84 (92, 100, 108) cm / 33 (36, 39.5, 42.5) in. Mesh stretches, so it fits close to the body with about 0 to 4 cm (0 to 1.5 in) of ease.
Finished length: About 32 cm (12.5 in) from hem to top edge, before the ties. Add rows to make it longer.
Pattern note: This is an original design based on the title concept. Stitch counts have been checked, but the pattern has not been physically crocheted or independently tested. Always check your gauge and adjust the hook size or stitch counts before you commit to the full top.
Materials
- DK-weight cotton yarn, approximately 100 (115, 130, 145) g, or about 250 (290, 325, 365) m. These are starting allowances, so buy one extra ball if you are between sizes or want to lengthen the top.
- A 4 mm hook as a starting point (adjust to match the gauge).
- Tapestry needle, scissors, stitch markers, and pins.
- A measuring tape, and a blocking mat or towel.
Stitches and Abbreviations
| Abbreviation | Meaning |
|---|---|
| ch | chain |
| sl st | slip stitch |
| sc | single crochet |
| dc | double crochet |
| sp | space |
| st(s) | stitch(es) |
| RS | right side |
The turning chain at the start of each mesh row counts as a dc plus a ch-1 space, as explained in the pattern. Numbers in brackets give the number of mesh spaces at the end of each row.
Gauge
5 mesh spaces and 8 rows = 10 cm (4 in) in the mesh pattern, after blocking.
One mesh space is one dc plus one ch-1, so 5 spaces use 10 stitches across. Gauge decides whether the top fits, so do not skip the swatch. Chain 22, work Row 1 and then 9 more rows of mesh (see below), and block it. Measure across 10 cm.
- Too few spaces in 10 cm: go down a hook size.
- Too many spaces in 10 cm: go up a hook size.
Size Chart
| S | M | L | XL | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Finished bust | 84 cm | 92 cm | 100 cm | 108 cm |
| Panel width | 42 cm | 46 cm | 50 cm | 54 cm |
| Mesh spaces per panel | 21 | 23 | 25 | 27 |
| Foundation chain | 44 | 48 | 52 | 56 |
Before You Begin
Mesh is one of the easiest lace stitches, because every row is the same. Count your spaces at the end of every row. The count must stay the same all the way up, or the edges will go wavy.
To make the top longer or shorter, add or remove rows. Eight rows add about 10 cm (4 in). Try the first panel against your body before you make the second.
Front and Back (make 2 the same)
Ch 44 (48, 52, 56).
Row 1: Dc in the 6th ch from the hook (the skipped 5 chains count as the first dc and a ch-1 space, plus 2 extra chains). Ch 1, skip 1 ch, dc in the next ch. Repeat from * across. Turn. [21 (23, 25, 27) spaces]
Row 2: Ch 4 (counts as dc and ch-1). Skip the first dc. Dc in the next dc, ch 1. Repeat from * across, ending with dc in the 3rd ch of the turning chain. Turn. [21 (23, 25, 27) spaces]
Rows 3–25: Repeat Row 2. [21 (23, 25, 27) spaces per row]
The panel should measure about 32 cm (12.5 in) tall. Fasten off.
Note: Row 1 gives a ch-1 space at the start, so Row 2 begins by skipping the first dc and working into the next dc. If your edges look uneven, work Row 2 as ch 4, then dc in the next dc. This is the same instruction written simply.
Assembly
- Block both pieces. Pin each panel flat to the measurements in the size chart, spray lightly with water, and let it dry completely.
- Side seams: Place the front and back panels together with right sides facing. Sew the side seams with mattress stitch or a loose whip stitch, working through the edge stitches. Seam all the way up, since there is no armhole.
- Weave in all ends.
Edging and Straps
Top edge: Join yarn at a side seam. Ch 1, sc in each dc and each ch-1 space around the top of the panel. Join with a sl st to the first sc. [42 (46, 50, 54) sc per panel] Fasten off.
Neckline: Do not worry about shaping the neckline. The top is a straight tube, and the straps hold it at the shoulders.
Ties (make 4): Join yarn at a point along the top edge, about 5 cm (2 in) in from each side seam on the front and back. Ch 80 (about 45 cm, 18 in). Sl st in the 2nd ch from the hook and in each ch across. Fasten off. Make 2 ties on the front and 2 on the back. Tie each front tie to the matching back tie over your shoulder.
Optional hem: Join yarn at a side seam, ch 1, and work 1 sc in each foundation chain around the hem. Join and fasten off. This stops the hem from curling.
Finishing
Wash the top gently in cool water, press out the water in a towel without wringing, and lay it flat to dry. Cotton stretches when it is wet, so do not hang it up to dry.
Practical Tips and Troubleshooting
The edges are wavy. The space count changed along the way. Count at the end of every row, and place a stitch marker in the turning chain so it is easy to find.
The mesh looks too open. Go down half a hook size, or work 3 sc in each ch-1 space on the top edge.
The top is too tight. Make the next size up, or go up a hook size. Always check gauge against the chart.
The top rides up. Add 4 to 8 rows, or add the optional hem to stop it from curling.
The ties are too long or too short. Make the chains the length you need before you fasten off. You can try them on and adjust.
FAQ
Can I use acrylic or cotton blend yarn? Yes. Check that it is DK weight and re-check your gauge. Cotton drapes beautifully for summer, but a blend has more stretch.
Can I make it a full-length top? Yes. Work 40 rows instead of 25, which gives about 50 cm (19.5 in), and add 20 g (in all sizes) of yarn.
Can I add a color stripe? Yes. Change color every 4 rows, and carry the yarn up the side. Cut and weave in the ends if the stripes are further apart.
Can I wear it over a swimsuit? Yes. Mesh is a classic beach cover-up. Use a cotton yarn that dries quickly.
Do I need to block it? Yes, it is recommended. Blocking makes the seams neater and sets the size.
More Free Crochet Patterns
- Easy Crochet Top Pattern for Beginners
- Free Crochet Table Runner Pattern (Shell Stitch)
- Crochet Dragon Pattern
Save This Pattern
Pin this Easy Summer Crochet Top Pattern to your Pinterest board for your next wearable project. Happy crocheting!
