Mesh Crochet Shrug Top Pattern That's Perfect For Layering

This easy crochet crop mesh shrug Top pattern is your next go-to project for summer layering. Designed for breathability and style, this lightweight shrug adds a trendy, handmade touch to any outfit. With its open mesh stitch design, it’s perfect for pairing over tank tops, swimsuits, or sundresses.

Crochet Shrug Top

The cropped length and customizable fit make it ideal for all body types, while the step-by-step process keeps it beginner-friendly. Whether you're heading to the beach or styling up for a brunch date, this Crochet Shrug effortlessly elevates your look while keeping you cool and comfortable. Plus, it’s entirely customizable—adjust the width, length, or sleeves for a shrug that’s truly yours.

Materials Needed

• Caron Cotton Cakes yarn (Color used: High Tide)
• 5.0 mm crochet hook
• Scissors
• Sewing needle
• Stitch markers

Stitches Used

• Slip Knot
• Chain (ch)
• Double Crochet (dc)
• Extended Single Crochet (esc)
• Single Crochet (sc)
• Slip Stitch (sl st)

Initial Chain

• Make a slip knot.
• Chain 172 stitches.

First 14 Rows (Panel 1)

Row 1:

• Yarn over and insert your hook into the 3rd chain from the hook (use back bumps for neatness).
• Double crochet (dc).
• Chain 1, skip 1 chain, dc in the next chain.
• Repeat (ch 1, skip 1, dc) to end.

Rows 2–14:

• Do not chain 1 at the end of previous row.
• Turn your work.
• Start with an extended single crochet (esc):
• Insert hook, pull up a loop (2 loops on hook).
• Yarn over, pull through one loop (sc).
• Insert into the vertical leg of sc, yarn over, pull up loop.
• Yarn over, pull through both loops.
• Chain 1.
• Skip chain space, dc into the next dc.
• Repeat across.

Creating the Neckline (Panel 2 Start)

Marking the Neck Gap:

• Try shrug across chest and place stitch markers for neck opening.
• Ensure stitch counts on both sides are equal (e.g., 65 stitches on each side, 39 for neck).

Crocheting to First Marker:

• Turn work and start with esc.
• Continue (ch 1, dc in next dc) to first marker.

Chaining the Neckline:

• Count the spaces between markers (e.g., 39).
• Chain that number for neck opening.

Continue the Row:

• Dc in the marked stitch on the opposite side.
• Resume (ch 1, dc) pattern to row end.

Next Row Across Neckline Chains:

• Start with esc.
• Continue to neckline.
• Chain 1, skip 1 chain, dc into next chain across the gap.
• Resume (ch 1, dc) to row end.

Complete Panel 2:

• Continue mesh pattern rows until you complete 14 rows after the neckline row.

Seaming the Sleeves

Fold and Prep:

• Fold the piece in half.
• Remove markers.

First Sleeve:

• From last stitch, begin slip stitching sides together.
• Insert into both layers (front and back).
• Slip stitch down until armpit area (e.g., 58 stitches).
• Chain 1 to secure, cut yarn.

Second Sleeve:

• Slip knot yarn.
• Attach yarn at same position as first sleeve (mirror placement).
• Insert hook through both layers.
• Slip stitch down matching number of stitches.

Adding Cuffs

Turn Shrug Inside Out

• First Cuff:
• Chain 1 around sleeve opening.
• Single crochet around entire cuff.
• Slip stitch to join.
• Second Cuff:
• Make slip knot and attach yarn.
• Single crochet around and slip stitch to join.

Finishing

• Weave in all ends using a sewing needle.
• Hide seams by weaving into the V’s of stitches.