A crochet summer top or t-shirt is such a great project to try if you are looking to make your first garment. Many crochet top patterns feature a very simple construction, often as easy as making two rectangles and then seaming them together!
A t-shirt is a staple in pretty much every wardrobe thanks to its versatility and comfort; a crochet tee can be dressed up or down and worn in any season! And the best thing about making your own t-shirt is that you can customize it to fit your own size and shape. A crochet top really is a great project for crocheters of all levels.
In the list below you’ll find some of my favorite crochet t-shirt patterns with free and easy-to-follow instructions. You’re guaranteed to find something to suit your own personal style and skill level – there really is something for everyone.
So without further ado, let’s get crocheting!
How to Crochet a T-Shirt
There are several ways to make a crochet top, the easiest being to crochet two rectangles and sew them together, leaving space for the neck and armholes.
Top-down construction is another popular method for creating a crochet top. WIth this method, you will start at the neckline with a round or square yoke and then work outwards until your top reaches the required circumference for your bust measurement. After this you will “split” the yoke to create the armholes and work the rest of the top in even rounds.
While this method does require a little more concentration in terms of keeping track of stitch counts and increases, it’s still very accessible even for newer crocheters.
And one of the major benefits of top-down construction is that you can try on your crochet tee as you go, so there won’t be any surprises with an ill-fitting top after you have put in all the hard work.
What do you need to crochet a t-shirt?
To crochet a summer top, you’ll need basic crochet skills (single crochet, half double crochet and double crochet should do it!) and the ability to follow a written crochet pattern. (It is true that there are plenty of YouTube videos which show you how to crochet a tee, but it’s very hard to find a video that will cater for ALL sizes so this is where written patterns really do offer an advantage over video alone.)
You’ll also require the materials listed in your chosen pattern – yarn, hook and stitch markers.
What to look for in a crochet top pattern?
When it comes to choosing a crochet pattern for a t-shirt (or any garment), you will want to take into account your skill level as well as the size that you want to make.
Many modern crochet patterns are written for sizes XS-5X, which I think is essential as we really are all different shapes and sizes.
In addition, you might like to select a pattern that offers tips on adjustments e.g. lengthening the torso or sleeves for example.
What is the best yarn for a crochet summer top?
Crochet tops can be made from a variety of yarn weights, but in general for a summer tee or tank you will probably want to go for a thinner yarn e.g. #1/Fingering or #2/Sport.
It’s also common to find a crochet top pattern that calls for a #3/DK/Light weight yarn and you might even find the occasional one that uses a #4/worsted weight yarn!
Remember, the thinner the yarn the longer it will take to work up, but don’t let this put you off as the breathability and comfort that come with using a thinner yarn will be absolutely worth it.
In terms of yarn fiber, the possibilities are also endless here! For a top that will be worn in warmer weather a cotton or cotton blend yarn is ideal, as is any yarn that contains a bamboo or linen fiber.
Merino wool is also surprisingly good at keeping you cool in warm weather (and warm in cold weather!) so you may also find this yarn in many of your favorite crochet summer top patterns.
Here are some of the my favorite yarns for crochet top patterns in a variety of different weights:
| #1/Fingering weight yarn | #2/Sport weight yarn | #3/DK weight yarn |
| WeCrochet Comfy Fingering (75% Pima Cotton, 25% Acrylic) | MillaMia Naturally Baby Soft (50% cotton, 50% soy) | Stylecraft Naturals Bamboo Cotton (60% Bamboo 40% Cotton) |
| Scheepjes Catona (100% Cotton) | Debbie Bliss Eco Baby (100% Cotton) | WeCrochet CotLin (70% Tanguis Cotton, 30% Linen) |
| Scheepjes Bamboo Soft (50% Cotton 50% Bamboo) | WeCrochet Shine Sport (60% Pima Cotton, 40% Modal natural beech wood fiber) | Lion Brand Coboo (50% Cotton 50% Bamboo) |
| Paintbox Yarns Cotton 4 ply (100% Cotton) | WeCrochet Comfy Sport (75% Pima Cotton, 25% Acrylic) | WeCrochet Capra DK (85% Fine Merino Wool, 15% Cashmere) |
Crochet Gauge Swatches
Before you get started on your crochet top, it is absolutely essential that you take the time to make a gauge swatch, even if you are using the exact same yarn and hook as recommended in the pattern!
We all crochet differently and the only way to be sure that your top will turn out the size you expect is to match the gauge that the designer has listed in the pattern.
This may mean that you use a different hook size (whether larger or smaller) depending on how tightly or loosely you crochet.
All About Crochet Gauge
I have created an entire mini-course dedicated to teaching you everything you need to know about gauge (it’s that important!).
In the course I cover the following gauge essentials:
1) What exactly is gauge?
2) Why gauge is so important
3) How to make and measure your gauge swatch (correctly!)
4) Gauge troubleshooting – what to do if you can’t match the gauge in a pattern
25 Free Crochet T-Shirt Patterns
Your search for a free crochet t-shirt pattern is over! This list of 25 free crochet top patterns has something for crocheters of all levels, from beginners to experienced crocheters and everyone in between.
Lily Ruffle Sleeve Crochet Top by Ned and Mimi
This Ruffle Sleeve Crochet Top is sure to be a summer staple in your handmade wardrobe! It is perfect for dressing up or down, and I love how the feminine lace ruffles elevate an otherwise simple tank top from basic to beautiful. The pattern is written for 9 sizes from XS – 5X, and is easily customizable to suit all body shapes and sizes.
Sizes: XS to 5X
Yarn weight: #3 / Light / DK
Skill Level: Intermediate
Pattern Format: Written
Dreamsicle Tee by Sigoni Macaroni
The Dreamsicle Tee Crochet Pattern is easy to follow and perfect for beginners. It involves crocheting two rectangles and sewing them together, with no shaping of sleeves or decreasing. The pattern is written for sizes XS-XL and is super easy to customize for all body shapes and sizes.
Sizes: XS to XL
Yarn weight: #4 / Medium / Worsted
Skill Level: Beginner
Pattern Format: Written & Photo Tutorial & Video
Positano Tee by Hopefully Honey
The Positano Tee is a lightweight and delicate top, perfect for a casual day out. This top features an open and lacy fabric that allows for easy layering and can be worn with swimwear or paired with a skirt and sandals for a relaxed look. This tee is crocheted using Lion Brand's Cotton Bamboo yarn, which gives it a soft and sleek feel and beautiful drape. This easy pattern also comes with step-by-step photos.
Sizes: XS to 2X
Yarn weight: #3 / Light / DK
Skill Level: Easy
Pattern Format: Written & Photo Tutorial
Verona Tee by Hanjan Crochet
The Verona Tee is a stylish and versatile crochet top that's easy to make - no shaping required and only beginner-stitches involved! This lovely t-shirt pattern is perfect for dressing up or down, allowing you to look fabulous no matter the occasion. With a delicate filet crochet pattern climbing up the front and back panels and a simple yet detailed V-neck, this top is both subtle and elegant. Available in sizes XS to 5X, this size-inclusive pattern also includes a section on customizing your top and comes with a free video tutorial too.
Sizes: XS to 5X
Yarn weight: #1 / Super Fine / Fingering
Skill Level: Easy
Pattern Format: Written & Video
Crochet Riviera Stripe Tee by For the Frills
The Riviera Striped Tee is perfect for the end of summer season. Its cropped and lightweight design with short ribbed sleeves gives it a retro feel that makes it a great transitional piece. The chunky stripes add a touch of fun, and you can play around with the stripes or opt for a solid color for a cleaner, more minimalist look.
Sizes: XS to 3X
Yarn weight: #1 / Super Fine / Fingering
Skill Level: Easy
Pattern Format: Written & Video
Avignong Tee by For the Frills
If you're new to crochet and looking for a simple, comfy top to make, then this project is perfect for you. This slouchy boat neck tee is super easy to crochet - if you can make a rectangle, you can make this top! And the best part is that it's customizable, so you can make it as a crop top or a longer t-shirt. The top is made up of four rectangles - two sleeves and an identical front and back - all worked in double crochet and slip stitches. Assembly is simple too - just sew the ribbing portions of the body panels together, leaving a gap for the neckline, and sew on the sleeves.
Sizes: XS to 5X
Yarn weight: #2 / Fine / Sport
Skill Level: Beginner
Pattern Format: Written & Video
Electric Sun Tee by E and P Crochet
The Electric Sun Tee Crochet Pattern is a vibrant and fun oversized top that uses three different colors to create a unique wave effect. The pattern is designed with positive ease for an oversized fit, which can accommodate a range of body shapes and sizes. It can be customized by adding more row repeats to increase the length before starting the neckline shaping. The pattern includes a video tutorial to help with the stitch repeat.
Sizes: XS to 5X
Yarn weight: #4 / Medium / Worsted
Skill Level: Intermediate
Pattern Format: Written & Video
Irish Stitch Tee by Originally Lovely
The Iris Stitch Tee is a lace crochet top with delicate details, designed to showcase the elegant drape of the Originally Lovely Cria yarn. Although the pattern is technically intermediate level, the video tutorial accompanying it makes it accessible to adventurous beginners looking to create their first garment. The lace stitch used in this tee is a relaxed stitch as you work into chain spaces rather than actual stitches, meaning you don't need to pay much attention or count for most of the pattern.
Sizes: XS to 5X
Yarn weight: #4 / Medium / Worsted
Skill Level: Intermediate
Pattern Format: Written & Video
Lakeside Tee by Moogly Blog
The Lakeside Tee features a boat-neck style, and is written for sizes XS-5X. This simple top is created by joining two rectangles and leaving space for the head and arms. Wear with jeans for a casual look or dress it up for work - this top is so easy to style for all occasions!
Sizes: XS to 5X
Yarn weight: #3 / Light / DK
Skill Level: Easy
Pattern Format: Written
Forest Breeze Tee by For the Frills
This Forest Breeze V-neck Tee offers a relaxed, loose fit with short t-shirt sleeves and an elegant v-neckline. The design is made up of four panels that are seamed together. The length of the tee is completely customizable, making it suitable for a range of seasons. Whether you prefer a cropped top for summer or a longer, full-length style for spring or autumn, this free crochet pattern is perfect for all skill levels. This pattern also comes with a full video tutorial.
Sizes: XS to 3X
Yarn weight: #3 / Light / DK
Skill Level: Easy
Pattern Format: Written & Video
Easy Essential Tee by Hooked on Homemade Happiness
The Easy Essential Tee Crochet Pattern is a perfect addition to any spring-summer wardrobe and an effortless crochet pattern for all skill levels. The pattern uses extended single crochet stitches and has a no-seam design that is easy to make and so comfortable to wear.
Sizes: S to XL
Yarn weight: #3 / Light / DK
Skill Level: Easy
Pattern Format: Written & Photo Tutorial
Perfect T-Shirt Crochet Pattern by Originally Lovely
This crochet T-shirt pattern is a beginner-friendly project that is worked in the round from the top down, making it quick and easy to create. This pattern uses the linen stitch (also known as the moss stitch) which is one of my all-time favorites and creates a gorgeous, woven look.
Sizes: XS to 5X
Yarn weight: #3 / Light / DK
Skill Level: Easy
Pattern Format: Written & Photo Tutorial
Summertime Tee by TL Yarn Crafts
The Summertime Tee is absolutely perfect for warmer weather. This crochet pattern uses simple stitches and basic construction to create a flattering garment suitable for any occasion. The mesh-look fabric of the top is created using extended single crochet stitches for a simple, classic look.
Sizes: Bust: 38”, 42”, 46”, 50”, 54”
Yarn weight: #4 / Medium / Worsted
Skill Level: Easy
Pattern Format: Written & Photo Tutorial
Basic Tee Crochet Pattern by Hooked on Homemade Happiness
The Basic Tee Crochet Pattern is the perfect choice if you are looking for a simple and easy-to-follow crochet top pattern. The top down construction means there is absolutely no seaming required, and you can try it on as you go for a perfect fit.
Sizes: S to 3X
Yarn weight: #4 / Medium / Worsted
Skill Level: Easy
Pattern Format: Written
Crochet Shirt with Bobbles by Joy of Motion Crochet
This easy-to-follow crochet t-shirt pattern is versatile enough to wear throughout the year, even as a layering piece during cooler months. The pattern is written for sizes XS to 5XL, and is designed to be loose-fitting, which enhances its comfortability. The bobble stitch pattern on the front adds a touch of fun but you can opt for a more basic look by leaving out the bobbles.
Sizes: XS to 5X
Yarn weight: #4 / Medium / Worsted
Skill Level: Easy
Pattern Format: Written
Modern Summer Top Tee by Jenny and Teddy
This crochet summer top pattern is a delightful addition to your seasonal wardrobe. The pattern features a beginner-friendly granny stitch, and a simple one-row repeat. Use a cotton yarn for a lightweight and comfy top that you can wear all summer long.
Sizes: S to 4X
Yarn weight: #3 / Light / DK
Skill Level: Beginner
Pattern Format: Written & Photo Tutorial & Video
Simple Crochet T-shirt by Wilmade
The Simple Crochet T-shirt is a quick and easy crochet top pattern perfect for beginners. The pattern involves only chains and double crochet stitches, and it works up quickly into two separate T-shaped pieces that are then joined together on the sides and shoulders.
Sizes: S to 5X
Yarn weight: #5 / Bulky
Skill Level: Easy
Pattern Format: Written & Video
Tunisian Crochet Comfort Tee by Stitch and Hustle
The Comfort Tee is a comfortable and stylish V-neck crochet top that is perfect for all seasons. This Tunisian Crochet pattern not only creates a unique look but offers the perfect opportunity to learn a new skill too!
Sizes: XS to 5X
Yarn weight: #3 / Light / DK
Skill Level: Intermediate
Pattern Format: Written
Hawthorne Tee by Hanjan Crochet
The Hawthorne Tee is a light and airy crochet top perfect for summer. It is crocheted from the top down, which makes it a delight to make and wear as it is completely seamless! Try it on as you go for the perfect fit.
Sizes: XS to 5X
Yarn weight: #1 / Super Fine / Fingering
Skill Level: Easy
Pattern Format: Written & Video
The Summer Solstice Crochet T-shirt by Dora Does
If you are looking for a versatile and lightweight crochet top for summer, then the Summer Solstice top is right for you! This cotton geometric top can be worn with the long side at the front or back, making it a versatile addition to your summer wardrobe. Pair it with a bikini on the beach or dress it up with light trousers, shorts, or a summer skirt. The pattern is worked in two pieces, with vertical rows worked from the outside in towards the center using a simple pattern repeat that is charted in addition to the written instructions.
Sizes: XS to 3X
Yarn weight: #4 / Medium / Worsted
Skill Level: Easy
Pattern Format: Written
Top Down Crochet Tee by Joy of Motion Crochet
This lovely top is worked from the neck down and features beautiful braid details for added interest and texture. While the braids may look complicated, the majority of the pattern is comprised of simple single crochet stitches, making it an easy and enjoyable project for crocheters of all skill levels. And with sizes ranging from XS to 5XL, this top is easily adaptable to fit any body type.
Sizes: XS to 5X
Yarn weight: #4 / Medium / Worsted
Skill Level: Easy
Pattern Format: Written
Aviva Summer Top by Hooked On Patterns
This easy-to-make crochet tee pattern is created from 2 identical panels with minimal shaping, making it a great project for beginners. The top features a solid textured body with a mesh top section, providing a stylish and comfortable option for warmer weather. Made with 100% cotton DK weight yarn and a larger 6mm hook for looser stitches, this tee is perfect for staying cool in the spring and summer months.
Sizes: S to 3X
Yarn weight: #3 / Light / DK
Skill Level: Beginner
Pattern Format: Written & Photo Tutorial
Spotting Clouds Top by A Spoonful of Yarn
The Spotting Clouds top is a part of the Poetry Collection and features different stitch patterns to represent three different cloud shapes. This t-shirt is easy to make as it is worked seamlessly from the top-down. The pattern offers the flexibility to decide on the length and is suitable for advanced beginners or intermediate crocheters.
Sizes: S to XL
Yarn weight: #4 / Medium / Worsted
Skill Level: Intermediate
Pattern Format: Written & Photo Tutorial
Raglan Crochet Tee by Joy of Motion Crochet
The Raglan Crochet Tee Pattern is a versatile and stylish addition to your crochet garment collection. This pattern is very straightforward, using single crochet stitches and easy-to-follow repeats.
Sizes: XS to 5X
Yarn weight: #3 / Light / DK
Skill Level: Easy
Pattern Format: Written
Cupcake Tee by Moogly Blog
The Cupcake Tee is a free crochet top pattern featuring a mesh stitch pattern and a stylish cowl neckline. It is available in sizes Extra Small through 5X and is made with Red Heart It’s A Wrap Sprinkles, a cotton-acrylic blend that is perfect for warm weather. This top is quite drapey and flowy, and it grows in size when worn - if you prefer a closer fit it might be a good idea to go down a size on this one!
Sizes: XS to 5X
Yarn weight: #2 / Fine / Sport
Skill Level: Easy
Pattern Format: Written
I hope you have taken some inspiration from these projects, happy crocheting!
Sarah