Crochet Openwork Crop Top

Materials

• Yarn: Worsted weight cotton yarn (approximately 400 yards)
• Hook: Size H/8 (5.0 mm) crochet hook
• Stitch marker
• Yarn needle for weaving in ends
• Scissors

Gauge

14 double crochets (dc) and 8 rows = 4 inches in pattern stitch.

Abbreviations

• ch = chain
• dc = double crochet
• sl st = slip stitch
• sp = space
• sts = stitches
• tr = triple crochet
• RS = right side
• WS = wrong side

Size

This pattern is designed to fit sizes S/M. Adjustments can be made for larger sizes by adding multiples of 4 to the foundation chain.

Instructions

1. Foundation Row: Ch 70 (or desired length), turn.
2. Row 1: Dc in 4th ch from hook (this counts as your first dc and a ch-1 space), *ch 1, skip next ch, dc in next ch; repeat from * across to last ch. Dc in last ch, turn.
3. Row 2: Ch 3 (counts as first dc), *dc in ch-1 sp, ch 1; repeat from * across until the last dc. Dc in top of the turning ch, turn.
4. Row 3: Ch 3, *dc in ch-1 sp, ch 1; repeat from * across until last dc. Dc in top of turning ch, turn. Rep Rows 2 and 3 for a total of 24 rows, or until the piece measures about 16 inches from the foundation row.
5. Shaping the Armholes: Once the desired length is achieved, chain 18 and turn your work. You will now work on the front panel while keeping the back panel intact.
6. Front Panel: Continue with the same stitch pattern, ch 3 to start each row, but reduce each side by working 1 dc in the first and last sts for the next 4 rows. This creates a slight curve for the armholes.
7. Back Panel: After 30 rows total, finish off with a sl st to the top of the chain. Weave in ends.
8. Joining: Use a yarn needle to sew the sides together, starting from the bottom up, leaving enough space for the armholes. Ensure it's well aligned. Turn your top RS out.
9. Finishing: Optional: Add a simple border by working a row of sc around the bottom hem and sleeves for a polished look. Weave in all loose ends.
10. Blocking: Gently wet block your top to give it a nice shape and allow it to dry flat.

Enjoy your beautiful new crochet crop top! This piece is versatile and can be styled in many ways for different occasions.