This collection of free crochet top patterns has you covered for summer and beyond. From crop tops to tunics to blouses, nothing beats the feeling of expressing your style with a shirt or tank you crafted yourself.
Alongside plenty of pattern inspiration, you’ll also learn how to construct and size a crochet top and choose the best yarn and hook to achieve the most flattering drape.
Jump to:
- Crochet Top Patterns for Summer and Beyond
- How to Crochet a Top: What to Know
- Garment-Making Resources and Tutorials
- Crochet Tops, Tanks, and Shirts - Free Patterns
- Which Stitch Works Best?
- How to Take Your Body Measurements
- Achieving Your Perfect Fit
- Supplies and Materials
- Choosing the Right Hook
- Top, Shirt, and Tank FAQs
- More Summer Crochet Patterns
- That was so fun! Now what?
- Invitation to our Facebook group
Crochet Top Patterns for Summer and Beyond
Crochet tank tops and blouses are lightweight and chic, making them superb for layering or wearing on their own. When it's time to pack away the cozy sweaters, jump into a crochet shirt pattern that will transition seamlessly to warmer weather.
How to Crochet a Top: What to Know
New crocheters can find plenty of beginner-friendly shirt and tank top patterns when you know what to look for. If you're just learning how to crochet shirts and clothing, choosing the right type of pattern is critical.
Simple Shapes and Constructions
The easiest crochet top patterns use surprisingly simple shapes to make flattering silhouettes. Here are some general themes to look for.
- Two basic rectangles sewn together form the base of many easy crochet tops. Our Alfresco Top and Saratoga Poncho Top are examples of beginner patterns made exclusively from rectangles.
- Similarly, V-neck crop tops involve crocheting two separate triangular pieces for the front. This style can be particularly flattering for casual tanks.
- Crochet halter tops tend to be especially fast projects. Not only are backless, wearable crochet pieces totally in fashion, all that negative space means fewer stitches (and a smaller amount of yarn!)
Intermediate and Advanced Methods
More advanced crocheters can also use a top-down construction for making seamless shirts and blouses. Circular yokes are popular for this, or you can use a raglan patternif you prefer a rectangular neckline.
And creative straps and sleeves are always great finishing touches to add to basic crochet tops.
Related: 15 Butterfly Crochet Top Patterns
Garment-Making Resources and Tutorials
Before you dive into one of the free top patterns below, these beginner guides will prepare you for making your own clothes.
- Crochet Supplies - what to buy and what you can skip
- How to Read Crochet Patterns - tackle your next project with confidence
- How to Check Your Crochet Gauge - skipping this step is a common beginner mistake
- How to Weave in Your Ends - make this necessary evil less painful with these tips
- Blocking Your Crochet - why it matters and how to do it
Crochet Tops, Tanks, and Shirts - Free Patterns
Now the technical stuff is sorted, let’s begin the fun of choosing the perfect crochet top pattern.
Stitched summer tops, tanks, and halters look amazing. Or will you go for an elegant tunic or blouse? From simple to advanced patterns, all crocheters can expand their wardrobe with these wearable crochet designs.
Make and Do Crew Patterns
These are some of the women's crochet tops you'll find on Make and Do Crew.
makeanddocrew.com
Easy Crochet Summer Top
This free beginner pattern consists of just two sewn-together rectangles. Easy customizations give you just the right fit. A fine yarn such as Lion Brand Cotton Bamboo Linen provides perfect drape and durability.
Get the Pattern
makeanddocrew.com
Poncho-Style Blouse
If casual and boho describe your style, you’ll love this easy breezy summer crochet top. A v neck and floaty sleeves adds a fashionable touch without being too much.
Get the Pattern
makeanddocrew.com
Boho Crochet Tunic
This versatile crochet pattern can be customized to make a tunic, peplum top, or dress. Choose your own lengths for the bodice, skirt, and sleeves to craft your dream garment. I love it as a fashion-forward tunic for spring!
Get the Pattern
makeanddocrew.com
“Tush-Covering” Tunic
This free top pattern is the perfect summer or fall layer. Throw it over your swimsuit or pair it with leggings.
Get the Pattern
makeanddocrew.com
Lacy Boho Blouse
Nothing says summer like a delicate crochet blouse. If the Open Fan Lace stitch seems intimidating at first, print out the PDF pattern that includes a stitch diagram to guide you step by step.
Get the Pattern
makeanddocrew.com
Customizable Long Sleeve Shirt
Long sleeve crochet tops are the answer to your unpredictable weather woes. Beautiful bell sleeves give this pattern a fresh feel – plus a little extra coverage if the summer weather turns!
Get the Pattern
makeanddocrew.com
Cap Sleeve Top
Experienced beginners and intermediate level crocheters will love this flowy, short sleeve crochet top. The design looks great with different-colored yarns for a color-block effect. Coboo yarn from Lion Brand offers delightful stitch definition to emphasize your chosen hues.
Get the Pattern
makeanddocrew.com
Seamless Raglan Crochet Shirt Pattern
This top-down blouse is a treat for the eye. It looks great by itself or with a cami in a contrasting color underneath.
Get the Pattern
Easy Summer Tops for Beginners
Two rectangles are all you need for most of these beginner-friendly crochet top patterns. Simple stitches are super effective for creating a laidback summer feel.
nedandmimi.com
Ruffle Sleeve Tunic
Available in sizes XS – 5X, this simple crochet tee is elevated by the elegant ruffling of the sleeves. The airy design is super breathable, making it an excellent choice for hot summer days.
Tunics + Blouses for Women
Longer pieces like tunics are ideal as beach cover-ups or over jeans for a classy look. Fine to light yarn like Lion Brand Truboo will help you achieve a drape to die for.
Related:30+ Beautiful Free Crochet Dress Patterns
www.ravelry.com
Diamond Motif Sleeveless Crochet Top
Say hello to your new capsule wardrobe summer staple. The elegant diamond design is timeless and lightweight.
www.eandpcrochet.com
Oversized Mesh Summer Pullover
Pop on this oversized mesh top for all your summer adventures. It's worked from the bottom up using two yarn colors that are kept attached throughout. Extra long cuff-able sleeves and a wide neckline that can be worn off the shoulder make this a sexy coverup at the beach, pool or neighborhood BBQ.
Summer Crochet Tank Tops
Let casual tank tops take you from spring to summer. Whether you prefer timeless stripes or flirty frills, subtle detailing brings these simple tanks to the next level.
knottednest.com
Lightweight Striped Tank
Combining the coziness of a crochet sweater with the breeziness of an open mesh stitch, this tank top is the perfect piece for changing seasons. Wear it as a sweater vest with a long sleeve top for a chic look that’s in right now.
www.hookedonhomemadehappiness.com
Easy Tank Top
Advanced beginners can dip their toe in the garment-making pool with this easy crochet top. The pattern requires just chain and single crochet stitches. Simply crochet two rectangles and sew together!
forthefrills.com
Scallop V-Neck Cami
Ideal for a romantic summer evening when you want something stylish, feminine, and made with love. Working this cami from the top down makes for a seamless shirt.
creamofthecropcrochet.com
Crochet Fringe Top Pattern
Basic stitches and a fashionable fringe give this piece a fun, dynamic look. This casual but exciting tank also makes a great gift.
Bralettes and Bra Tops
Pair boho bralettes with denim shorts or a floral skirt for the ultimate summer look. These beautiful bra tops will prepare you for festival season in no time!
More boho crochet patterns →
www.crochetwithcarrie.com
Elegant Crochet Bralette
This gorgeous bralette is guaranteed to make you feel like a summer goddess. Intricate detailing and dainty crochet texture stand out from the crowd.
www.gleefulthings.com
Crochet Crop Tank
Grab your hook and while away a few lazy summer hours whipping up this floaty beach crop top to drape over your bikini. This pattern calls for just one skein of yarn up to size large, making it a quick and affordable project.
Crop Tops
Crop and halter tops can be dressed up or down for all sorts of occasions. These trendy crochet top patterns marry classic stitches with modern style.
forthefrills.com
Sweetheart Crop
An adorable sweetheart neckline and ruche details come together in this sweet summer crop top. The free pattern is easily customizable for added length or a breezy, off-the-shoulder fit.
carlieflo.com
Crochet Halter Top
This halter top pattern uses double crochet in the back loop to achieve a flattering and modern design. Perfect for advanced beginner crocheters!
Related: Love the open-back style? Try an attention-grabbing butterfly top.
hayhaycrochet.com
Easy Off the Shoulder Shirt
With or without a cute scallop edge, this fun and flirty shirt is the perfect wearable crochet garment for all your adventures.
forthefrills.com
Off the Shoulder Crop Top
Show off your shoulders with this raglan-style easy crop top. Lightweight cotton yarn and a splash of skin will keep you cool all summer, alhtough the free pattern and video tutorial also includes instructions for making a longer off the shoulder top.
www.jennyandteddy.com
Pretty Puff Sleeved Free Crochet Top Pattern
Your closet will thank you for this beautiful crochet top made of two panels plus dreamy puff sleeves. A helpful follow-along video tutorial will guide you every step of the way.
crochetmia.com
Adorable Crochet Blouse
Wearable crochet blouses are the ultimate cute and functional crafty project. Buttons down the front add a playful edge.
www.crochetwithcarrie.com
Summer Vibes Tank
Stretchy ribbing and a v-neck come together for a sleek and stylish look in this crochet tank top pattern. The free pattern is easy for garment beginners to follow.
www.youtube.com
Bell Sleeve Crop Top
This long sleeve crop top is a beaut for date night or festivals. Either way, you'll feel like a handmade godess in this exposed shoulder top. Follow the video tutorial on Youtube to crochet your own.
leeleeknits.com
Easy Crochet Crop Top
If you’re searching for the perfect crochet crop top pattern, look no further! This beginner friendly v-neck crop top is super fun to make, and perfect to keep you cool, while looking hot in the summer months.
Granny Square Tops + Tanks
The humble granny square seems so simple yet brings endless possibilities. Let your creativity free by mixing color combos and designs for a crochet top made of unique granny squares. These projects are also great for using up leftover scrap yarn.
More patterns to make with granny squares→
www.lovecrafts.com
Off the Shoulder Crochet Top
Festival or beach days are the perfect stage for this lovely granny square blouse. Open shoulders and lacing detail on the back give the boxy design an irresistible feminine feel.
www.znooicraftcorner.com
Retro Tank
Bring fun, nostalgic vibes with this 70s crochet top. Mix and match the colors to your own style to make a totally unique garment.
www.handylittleme.com
Granny Square Tank Top
This cotton granny square crochet top is a great project for advanced beginners. Shell stitch edging adds a modern twist to a classic crochet look.
shyamanivas.blogspot.com
Crochet Beach Top
Combining playful patterns and tassel texture, this boho granny square crop top is great for hanging out. You can also dress it up for a unique evening outfit.
Which Stitch Works Best?
When picking a summer top pattern, of course, you're aiming for a beautiful and flattering finished product. Here are a few other things to remember when choosing the best stitch for a crochet top.
Density:
Will the stitch create a stretchy, easy-to-wear fabric? When crocheting a top for summer, avoid choosing dense, compact stitches like single crochet. Instead, aim for airy mesh and lace patterns that are seasonally appropriate for warmer weather. A tank top that feels comfy is essential in the heat!
Shaping:
How easy is it to increase and decrease this stitch pattern? If you’re designing your own tank top or bralette pattern, consider if you can easily shape the garment.
Drape:
The most flattering cardigans and pullovers will feature stitches that drape easily. Shirts and tanks are no different, especially when creating short-sleeve tops for summertime.
Choosing patterns with more open stitches that use lightweight yarn will ensure you crochet a top you feel fantastic wearing.
How to Take Your Body Measurements
Most women's crochet top patterns will be available in various sizes and give exact measurements for the garments. These measurements may vary between designers, so double-check before choosing a size.
Your bust measurement is usually the most important in selecting a crochet shirt or sweater size. To figure this measurement out, wrap a flexible measuring tape around the fullest part of your chest.
Make and Do Crew’s free crochet patterns follow the Craft Yarn Council’s standard sizing. Check out the CYC's detailed women’s clothing sizing guides to learn more about taking your measurements.
Achieving Your Perfect Fit
The desired fit varies from person to person and project to project. Sizing up will give you a loose, casual shirt, for example.
Length
Tunic or crop top? Many crochet top patterns are easily customizable, meaning you can decide how long or short you want your finished piece. Adjust the garment length measurement of your chosen pattern for a trendy tunic or a cropped tank.
Ease
For crochet sizing, “ease” means the difference between the body and garment measurements. You may size up or down depending on your desired fit for your top or tank.
- Positive Ease - the garment measurements are larger than the body measurements, creating a looser look.
- Negative Ease - the garment measurements are smaller than the body measurements, creating a more form-fitting top.
Supplies and Materials
The supplies you'll need to crochet a shirt are similar to other crochet clothing projects. If you're making a top to wear in the summer, you'll want to pay special attention to choosing a yarn that will be comfortable in warm weather.
Best Yarn for a Summer Crochet Top
Keep your chunky yarn for cozy winter projects and sweaters. Tanks and crop tops work best with lightweight yarns, like sport or DK weight. Sometimes worsted weight yarn can work well if the stitch pattern is loose and airy.
Here are a few of my favorite yarns for crocheted summer tops.
| Name | Weight | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| A Star is Born: Oh Baby Yarn | 2 - Fine | 100% natural fiber. Slightly stiffer than others on this list. |
| Truboo | 3 - Light | Creates fabric with amazing, slinky drape. Tendency to stretch. |
| Coboo | 3 - Light | Soft, drapey, and not too hot. Can split more than others. |
| Jeans | 4 - Medium | Easily washable and very soft. Not ideal for the dead of summer. |
| Touch of Linen | 4 - Medium | Versatile blend with natural fibers. Nice matte texture. |
| Lazy Days | 4 - Medium | Chainette construction with slight sheen. Too thick for very hot weather. |
Choosing the Right Hook
The size of the crochet hook needed for your top or tank depends on the pattern itself.
With all wearable crochet garments, making a gauge swatch and adjusting your hook size up or down until you meet the pattern gauge is essential. This is how you’ll ensure your blouse turns out the size you expect.
Top, Shirt, and Tank FAQs
Are crochet tops see-through?
Lace crochet stitches naturally open up more space in the finished garment, which you can see through to an extent. If you prefer fewer gaps, choose a tighter stitch pattern. Pair an airy crochet top with a cami for more coverage.
Are crochet tops breathable?
Crochet tops and tanks made with mesh stitches can be lightweight and breathable for summer. A lot of people associate yarn with chunky knitwear. For summer crochet tops, cotton yarn is a popular choice. Lighter yarns like this create more breathable garments.
How do I wash a crochet top?
Avoid horror stories of shrinking crochet items by paying special attention to the washing instructions on your yarn label. Synthetic yarn made of acrylic or nylon will not shrink. Natural fibers like cotton and wool may shrink when exposed to high heat, so handwash and lay flat to dry.
Will my top be the right size?
Most crochet top patterns are available in different sizes. Be sure to measure yourself correctly and compare to the pattern measurements before starting a project. Choosing a top-down pattern will allow you to try the garment on and adjust the fit as you go.
Once your crafting is done, blocking your crochet top will help even out the stitches and improve the drape. This process will help perfect the fit of the finished shirt.
More Summer Crochet Patterns
Celebrate the warm weather with these free on-trend patterns.
- Fedora Crochet Sun Hat - Free Pattern
- Lightweight Crochet Slippers with Flip Flop Soles - Free Pattern and Video!
- Easy Crochet Bucket Hat Free Pattern
- Short Sleeve Summer Crochet Cardigan
More summer crochet patterns →
That was so fun! Now what?
- Pin this post: Save this to your Pinterest crochet board so you can easily find it again.
- Share your work on Instagram or Facebook: Tag @MakeAndDoCrew and use #MakeAndDoCrew to show us your stitchin'!
- Leave a comment: Say hello and share your feedback below.
Invitation to our Facebook group
Come discuss crocheting top patterns and lots of other crochet projects and techniques in our Make & Do Crew Facebook group. Here thousands of helpful crocheters answer each other's questions and share their stitches. Join us!
