How To Crochet A Beginner Friendly Mesh Tank Top / Crop Top

Crocheting a mesh tank top or crop top is a fun and rewarding project that can add a personalized piece to your wardrobe. This type of project is particularly suitable for those with a basic understanding of crochet techniques, looking to create something stylish and breathable for warmer weather. Utilizing simple stitches, such as the chain stitch and double crochet, you can create a beautiful mesh fabric.

Crochet A Beginner Friendly Mesh Tank Top / Crop Top

By following a series of steps that involve making a foundation chain, crocheting in rows to create the mesh pattern, and then finishing with straps and edging, even beginners can tackle this project with confidence.

The process allows for customization in terms of size, color, and fit, making it a versatile pattern that can be adapted to suit any style. Whether you're looking to craft a chic top for summer outings or a casual crop top for everyday wear, crocheting a mesh tank top offers a delightful challenge with a fashionable reward.

Materials Needed

Cotton yarn in three different colors (the video uses Paintbox yarn)
4.5 mm crochet hook
4 stitch markers
Tapestry needle
Scissors

Top Part

Start with a slip knot and chain enough to go around your chest, leaving a bit of space at the back for a corset-type closing. (The video mentions chaining 88.)

Row 1: Chain 2 and then make a double crochet into the third chain from the hook. In the same stitch, make one more double crochet to create a V stitch.

Skip one chain and in the second chain, do two double crochets. Continue this pattern (skipping one chain, then making two double crochets in the next) until two chains are left.

At the end of the chain, skip one and make a double crochet in the last chain. If changing colors, pull through with the new color on the last step of the final double crochet.

Row 2: Chain 2 and turn your work. Do two double crochets into each of the V spaces from the previous row. Continue to the end, changing colors as desired at the end of each row.

Repeat the pattern from Row 2 for additional rows until you reach the desired length for your top. (The video completed 18 rows.)

Straps

Once the main part of the top is complete, put it on or lay it flat to determine where you want your straps to be, using stitch markers to mark the positions.
For each strap, attach yarn at the marked position, secure with a knot, and chain 2.
Repeat the V stitch pattern used for the top along the marked strap area, making sure both straps are symmetrical in placement and length. (The video made 29 rows for each strap.)
Once the straps are complete, tie off the ends and weave them in.

Finishing Touches

To create clean edges, work single crochets along the sides of the straps.
Weave in any loose ends on the back side of the top and straps for a neat finish.
For the back closing, crochet a long chain (150 chains were suggested, but adjust as needed for your size). You can leave it as a simple chain or add a row of single crochets for a slightly wider strap.
Weave this chain in and out of the back part of the top, spacing it evenly across.

Closure

Continue weaving the strap through the back part of the top for a corset-like closure, adjusting the spacing as necessary to ensure a comfortable and snug fit.