Coral Cove Breezy Crochet Cover-Up & Pool Dress Free Pattern

Dive into summer with this airy, textured crochet cover-up that transitions effortlessly from beach to boardwalk. The open stitch pattern and flattering silhouette make it a breezy essential for warm days. Whether you're lounging by the pool or strolling along the shore, this lightweight, boho-inspired garment will keep you comfortable and stylish. The honeycomb-like mesh design is not only beautiful but also functional, allowing for breathability and quick drying after a swim. This pattern is perfect for intermediate beginners ready to expand their skills, and the finished piece makes a wonderful handmade gift or a treat for your own summer wardrobe.

Materials Needed

Before you begin, gather the following supplies to ensure a smooth crochet session:

• Yarn: Lion Brand LB Collection Cotton Bamboo (or any DK weight cotton blend, approximately 500-700 yards depending on size). The sample shown uses a warm coral pink shade, but feel free to choose any color that speaks to your summer style.
• Crochet Hook: 5.5 mm (I/9) crochet hook
• Other Tools: Yarn needle for weaving in ends, scissors, stitch markers (optional but helpful for keeping track of rows), and a measuring tape.

Gauge & Size Information

Getting the right gauge is crucial for achieving the correct fit. Please take the time to make a gauge swatch before starting your project.

• Gauge in Half Double Crochet: 12 hdc x 10 rows = 4 inches
• Gauge in Net Pattern: 3 pattern reps x 6 rows = 4 inches

Sizes: XS/S (M/L, 1X/2X)
Finished Bust: 34-36 (40-42, 46-48) inches
Length: 28 (30, 32) inches

Stitches and Abbreviations

This pattern uses standard US crochet terminology. Familiarize yourself with these abbreviations before you begin:

• ch: chain
• sc: single crochet
• hdc: half double crochet
• dc: double crochet
• sk: skip
• st(s): stitch(es)
• sl st: slip stitch

Special Stitch: Net Pattern (Multiple of 3 + 2)

This open, lacy pattern creates the signature look of the cover-up. Practice this on a small swatch first to get comfortable with the rhythm.

• Row 1: Sc in 2nd ch from hook, *ch 3, sk 2 ch, sc in next ch* repeat across. Turn.
• Row 2: Ch 4 (counts as dc + ch 1), sk sc, *sc in next ch-3 space, ch 3* repeat, end with sc in last ch-3 space, ch 1, dc in last sc. Turn.
• Row 3: Ch 1, sc in first dc, *ch 3, sc in next ch-3 space* repeat, end with sc in top of turning ch. Turn.
• Repeat Rows 2-3 for the net pattern.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed instructions carefully to create your Coral Cove Cover-Up. The garment is worked in flat panels and then seamed together, making it a straightforward and rewarding project.

Back Panel

1. Foundation Chain: Chain 62 (74, 86). Ensure your foundation chain is not twisted.
2. Set Up Row: Work Row 1 of the Net Pattern across your foundation chain. You should have a total of 20 (24, 28) ch-3 spaces at the end of this row.
3. Continue Pattern: Work Rows 2 and 3 of the Net Pattern, repeating these two rows until the piece measures 26 (28, 30) inches from the start. It's helpful to lay the piece flat and measure it periodically to ensure accuracy.
4. Finish: Fasten off and weave in the yarn end securely. Set this panel aside.

Front Panel

1. Foundation Chain: Chain 62 (74, 86).
2. Set Up Row: Work Row 1 of the Net Pattern across your foundation chain.
3. Continue Pattern: Work in the Net Pattern until the piece measures 20 (22, 24) inches from the start. This is where you will begin shaping the neckline.

Shape Neckline - Left Front Shoulder

1. Row 1: Work across the first 25 (30, 35) stitches in pattern, turn. Leave the remaining stitches unworked for now.
2. Decrease Rows: Continue on these 25 (30, 35) stitches, decreasing 1 stitch at the neck edge (the edge closest to the center) every row for 4 rows. To decrease, simply skip the first stitch of the row at the neck edge before working your pattern. After 4 decrease rows, you will have 21 (26, 31) stitches remaining.
3. Work Even: Continue working in pattern without decreasing until this shoulder piece measures the same length as the back panel (26 (28, 30) inches from the start). Fasten off.

Shape Neckline - Right Front Shoulder

1. Locate Center: With the right side of your work facing you, skip the center 12 (14, 16) stitches for the neck opening. Attach your yarn to the next stitch.
2. Row 1: Work across the remaining 25 (30, 35) stitches in pattern, turn.
3. Decrease Rows: Mirror the left shoulder by decreasing 1 stitch at the neck edge every row for 4 rows. You will have 21 (26, 31) stitches remaining.
4. Work Even: Continue in pattern until this piece measures the same as the back panel. Fasten off.

Seaming the Panels

1. Side Seams: With right sides of the front and back panels together, use your yarn needle and a whip stitch or mattress stitch to sew the side seams. Start from the bottom edge and sew upward, leaving the top 8 (9, 10) inches open on each side for the armholes.
2. Shoulder Seams: With right sides still together, sew the shoulder seams, connecting the front and back panels at the top. Ensure the seams are aligned neatly.

Finishing Edges

Adding a neat border gives your cover-up a professional, polished look.

Armhole Edging

1. Round 1: Attach your yarn at the underarm seam. Ch 1, then work single crochet stitches evenly around the entire armhole opening. Join with a slip stitch to the first sc.
2. Round 2: Ch 1, work 1 sc in each sc around the armhole. Join with a slip stitch to the first sc.
3. Finish: Fasten off and weave in the ends. Repeat this edging process for the other armhole.

Neckline Edging

1. Round 1: Attach your yarn at one shoulder seam. Ch 1, work single crochet stitches evenly around the entire neckline opening, including the back neck and the front V or scoop shape. Join with a slip stitch.
2. Round 2: Ch 1, work 1 sc in each sc around the neckline. Join with a slip stitch.
3. Finish: Fasten off and weave in the ends.

Bottom Hem (Optional)

For a more finished and durable edge, you can add a simple border to the bottom of the cover-up.

1. Attach your yarn at a side seam on the bottom edge.
2. Ch 1, work one round of single crochet evenly around the entire bottom edge.
3. Join with a slip stitch and fasten off.

Final Steps

1. Weave in Ends: Carefully weave in all remaining yarn ends using your yarn needle. Make sure they are secure and hidden within the stitches.
2. Blocking: This is a crucial step for achieving the beautiful drape and open stitch definition. Wet block your cover-up by soaking it in lukewarm water with a mild soap, gently squeezing out excess water (do not wring), and laying it flat on a blocking mat or towel. Pin it out to the specified measurements and allow it to dry completely. This will open up the lace pattern and give your garment a professional finish.

Your Coral Cove Breezy Crochet Cover-Up is now complete! Slip it over your swimsuit and enjoy the sunshine in style. This versatile piece can also be worn as a light summer tunic over a tank top and shorts. Happy crocheting!