How to Crochet Cute Tops

Expand your wardrobe with crocheted tops.

Crocheting cute tops is only limited by your skill level and imagination. Shape and construction determine the overall look of a garment. Details such as yarn type, texture, color, type of stitch, trims and embellishments add character and freshness. Attractive details can significantly increase the cute-factor of even the most basic top. Today's crochet enthusiasts have a large choice of patterns and materials from which to choose. Satisfy your inner designer and create your own fashion looks with classic crochet and creative details.

Things You'll Need

• Pattern
• Picture of finished garment
• Yarn
• Crochet hooks
• Paper
• Colored pencils or pens
• Tapestry needle
• Scissors
• Embellishments

Instructions

Basic construction

1. Select a pattern suitable for your skill level. Consider the stitches, yarn weight and structure of the garment when choosing a pattern. Use a picture of the finished garment to sketch different color and detail options.

2. Make a sample patch as instructed in the pattern to check the gauge of the stitches. Do not skip this step. The garment size will be off if you fail to use the correct gauge. Change hook sizes up or down until you get the right gauge.

3. Complete the garment according to the pattern instructions. Make crocheted embellishments and sew them on the garment using yarn and a tapestry needle. Weave a few stitches into the crochet to hide yarn ends. Snip off the extra yarn.

Getting creative

1. Use cotton crochet thread for cute summer tops. Light-textured novelty yarns such as eyelash yarn, fringe or pom-pom yarns work well for details. Choose materials with similar washing and care instructions.

2. Make a lacy spider-web top and wear a lightweight shell under it. Lacy patterns are a summer standby. Long bell sleeves and asymmetrical hems and collars add interest.

3. Attach a different colored tank top or camisole inside a crocheted top to make a two-toned lined garment. Sew them together at the shoulder seams and neckline. Sew together at side seams for a fitted top.

4. Crochet a simple shell top and add cascading crocheted leaves and or flowers at the neckline similar to popular tops. Make the flower cascade larger on one side for an asymmetrical look. Use the same color yarn for a fashionable monochromatic color scheme.

5. Use heavier yarns such as acrylics, wools and angora for cool-weather wear. Heavy-textured yarns add interest to even simple garments. Use a dense stitch such as Tunisian crochet for a knitted look.

Tips & Warnings

• Purchase enough yarn of the same dye lot to complete the project. Different dye lots can result in undesirable color variations in the garment. A dye lot may be sold out by the time you discover you need more yarn. Check the store's return policy for unused skeins of yarn.

• Mix different materials to add details. Consider embroidered designs, ribbons, buttons or beading.

References

• "Crochet Lace Innovations: 20 Dazzling Designs in Broomstick, Hairpin, Tunisian, and Exploded Lace"; Doris Chan; 2010
• "Double Stitch"; Erika Simmons; 2008