Design your own stunning openwork crochet tank top with this versatile free pattern that adds beauty, elegance, and comfort to your wardrobe for any season.
A sunny day where you want to wear something light, breezy, and effortlessly chic. That’s exactly the kind of charm this openwork crochet tank top brings to your wardrobe. Using a “Free Crochet Openwork Tank Top Pattern,” you can create a piece that is not only stylish but also perfect for layering in any season. Its breathable, airy design makes it ideal for hot summer days or as a creative layer over long-sleeve tops in cooler months.
Crochet Openwork Tank Top – Free and Simple Pattern
The beauty of this tank top lies in its delicate, openwork stitching that adds an elegant touch to everyday wear. It feels modern yet timeless, suitable for casual outings, beach days, or even cozy evenings. This pattern is designed to combine fashion with functionality, letting you enjoy comfort without compromising on style.
Whether you’re crocheting it for yourself or as a thoughtful handmade gift, the tank top showcases the versatility and creativity of crochet. It pairs well with jeans, skirts, or shorts and offers endless styling options. With this free pattern, all you need is your crochet hook and yarn to make something truly beautiful, simple, and versatile for any occasion.
Elastic Yarn Summer Top Pattern
This pattern is for a fitted summer top that features:
- A solid band around the bust (half double crochet worked in the round).
- Mesh/openwork panels on the upper portion and lower body for a breathable, stylish look.
- Elastic yarn so it fits snugly without requiring additional support.
Finished Measurements
- Bust Circumference: Example: 85 cm (adjustable based on your size).
- Bust Band Height: 10–12 cm.
- Upper Mesh Section: 12 cm.
- Lower Body Mesh Section: About 6–7 rounds (adjustable).
Materials
- Yarn: Elastic yarn (recommended) or elasticized cotton blend.
- Hook Size:
- 3.5 mm (or 4 mm for tight crocheters).
- 3.0 mm for loose crocheters.
- Stitch Markers: At least 4.
- Measuring Tape: To measure circumference and lengths.
- Yarn Needle: For sewing and weaving in ends.
- Scissors.
Gauge (Optional)
While gauge is not crucial, aim for:
- 10 cm = approx. 15 hdc stitches × 10 rows.
Pattern
Step 1 – The Bust Band
NOTE: The bust band is worked in half double crochet (hdc) in the round. It should measure slightly smaller than your bust circumference for a snug fit.
Foundation Row
- Start with foundation half-double crochet (fhdc):
- Chain 2, insert hook into the first chain, pull up a loop (3 loops on hook).
- Yarn over, pull through one loop (this creates the foundation chain).
- Yarn over, pull through all three loops on hook (this creates the hdc).
- Continue inserting your hook under the bottom “chain” created and repeat until your foundation equals slightly less than your bust measurement (approx. 2–3 cm smaller).
OR if you are more comfortable:
- Work regular chain + hdc into each chain for the foundation row.
Example: For an 85 cm bust, work foundation hdc to measure 82–83 cm.
Join in the Round
- Ensure the foundation row is not twisted.
- Bring the two ends together and work 1 hdc into the first stitch to join in the round.
- Place a stitch marker to mark the beginning of the round.
Work in the Round
- Continue working hdc in each stitch around in a spiral format (do not join at the end of each round).
- Move the stitch marker up as you go to track the beginning of rounds.
Bust Band Height
- Work 10–12 cm of hdc rounds to complete the solid bust band portion.
- Try it on to ensure it fits snugly around your bust.
- Try it on to ensure it fits snugly around your bust.
Step 2 – Transition to Mesh Section
- Edge Clean-Up:
- At the end of the last bust band round, work:
- 2 hdc + 2 slip stitches (sl st) to create a smoother finish beneath the arm.
- This uneven spot will sit under the arm and won’t be visible.
- At the end of the last bust band round, work:
- Mark Armholes:
- Lay the top flat.
- From the sides (underarm area), measure 6 cm inward from each side (or approx. 12 stitches).
- Place markers at these points to define the front and back openings.
Step 3 – Upper Mesh Panels (Front and Back)
The mesh section is worked flat (back and forth) for the front and back pieces between the armhole markers.
Mesh Stitch Pattern
- Attach yarn to one armhole marker (start at side).
- Row 1:
- Ch 3 (counts as dc).
- Skip 1 stitch, dc in next stitch, ch 1, skip 1, dc in next stitch. Repeat across until the last marked stitch.
- To finish symmetrically:
- Work a small decrease: Begin a dc in the second-to-last and last stitch, leaving the last loop of both dcs on the hook. Yarn over and pull through all loops on hook.
- Turn.
- Row 2:
- Ch 3 (counts as dc).
- Dc in dc from the previous row, ch 1, skip ch-1 space, dc in next dc.
- Repeat across and turn.
- Continue repeating Row 2 to create the mesh pattern until the mesh panel measures about 12 cm.
- Fasten off and repeat on the other marked section to make the back mesh panel.
Step 4 – Shoulder Extensions
Making Straps
- From one front armhole marker, mark 5 mesh squares (approx. 5 dc–ch1 spaces) toward the center.
- Work only over these 5 mesh squares for 4–5 rows to create a strap.
- Continue in mesh stitch (dc, ch 1, skip 1).
- Fasten off and repeat on the other side for the second front strap.
- Repeat the same process for the back straps.
Joining the Straps
- Lay front and back straps together (right sides facing).
- Join each pair of straps:
- Use slip stitches (sl st) or sc to join them.
- Work 2 sc or sl st into each mesh square.
- Alternatively, sew them together with a yarn needle.
Once joined, weave in ends and turn the top right side out.
Step 5 – Lower Body Mesh Section
The lower body section is worked below the bust band in mesh stitch.
- Turn the top upside down, so the original foundation row is at the top.
- Attach yarn anywhere along the underside (preferably at a side seam/marker).
Lower Mesh Rounds
- Round 1:
- Ch 3 (counts as dc).
- Dc in next st, ch 1, skip 1. Repeat around.
- End with a ch 1, then sl st into the top of the ch-3 to join.
- Round 2:
- Ch 3 (counts as dc), ch 1. Dc in next dc, ch 1. Repeat.
- Join with sl st into top of ch-3.
- Repeat Round 2 for 6–7 rounds (or more if you’d like the top to be longer).
- Fasten off and weave in ends.
Finishing
- Weave in all ends with a yarn needle.
- Block lightly if necessary to smooth out stitches.
- Ensure armholes and straps are even, and try the top on to confirm fit.
Final Notes and Tips
- Customization:
- Adjust fit by modifying the bust band length or adding more/less rows to the mesh sections.
- Make the lower body mesh longer for a tunic or dress variation.
- Care:
- Hand wash cool and lay flat to dry to preserve elasticity.