Our favourite crochet top patterns
Welcome to the next step in your hooky adventure: crochet top patterns! Deciding to tackle your first garment is a milestone in any crocheter's journey, and whether you want to keep it simple or really challenge yourself, there’s a wide range of patterns to try.
We’ve rounded up our favourite crochet top patterns for you to try, as well as including links to our more in-depth lists if you really want to deep dive and find even more crochet tops to try.
15 crochet top patterns to start today
1. Free granny square sweater crochet pattern
We’ve got to start our list of crochet top patterns with a classic comfy sweater, and this free pattern keeps things simple as it’s made from just four large square motifs!
It’s a great first garment pattern as you don’t need to worry about shaping. It uses DK yarn and can be made in sizes from S to XL… although you can easily add more rounds to adjust the width or height if you need to.
Start making your free granny square sweater crochet pattern from Gathered
2. Free granny square halter top crochet pattern
To demonstrate the range of crochet top patterns available, let's go from a cosy casual sweater to a stunning summer top!
This amazing halter top pattern won’t take you long to make, being constructed from just five granny squares and two half squares. Hooked in cooling cotton, it’s just made for days out at the beach or lounging by the pool.
Find the free granny square halter top pattern right here on Gathered
3. Free crochet cardigan pattern
Too warm for a jumper, too cool for a halter top? A crochet cardigan pattern is what you need!
This free crochet cardigan pattern was inspired by a similar item worn by Harry Styles, which started a huge online trend for these patchwork-style cardi’s. It’s ideal for beginners as it’s completely made up of basic crochet stitches, and the slouch relaxed style means you can get away with your joins being less than perfect.
Check out the free Harry Styles cardigan pattern from Gathered
4. Granny square vest top crochet pattern
Even crochet newbies can add some granny square chic to their wardrobe with this fun pattern. Perfect for layering over long sleeve tops or a plain camisole, this vest is a great way to show off your crochet skills and look fabulous at the same time!
You can download this granny square vest crochet pattern from the Gathered shop
5. Summer textured pullover crochet pattern
Here’s a pattern that gives you the best of both worlds – a lovely layer to throw on during summer evenings but one that won’t make you too hot.
This summer textured pullover crochet pattern by Chloe Elizabeth Birch combines cooling cotton and bamboo yarn with an airy net design. It also features some fun bobbles for an extra bit of texture!
This pattern was first published in Simply Crochet magazine issue 151, which you can purchase as a digital copy from Ravelry or from our Digital issues app.
Fancy making a sweater for every season? We’ve got you covered (literally), just check out our pick of the best crochet jumper patterns.
6. Free crochet tank top pattern
If you’re on the lookout for a super-cute pattern to hook up for summer, then look no further than this tank top crochet pattern by Simply Crochet editor Sara Huntington.
It uses a clever ladder stitch made up of chains and double crochet to create a delicate and breathable project that is also perfect for showing off the colours in a variegated yarn.
Find this free crochet tank top pattern on Gathered
7. Free flower granny square cardigan pattern
We love a classic granny square, but recently it’s been flower granny squares that are all the rage. Combine this latest crochet trend with a super-snuggly cardi in this fab free pattern from Red Heart.
It can be made in sizes XS to 2XL, and it’s also a great excuse to treat yourself to their fun All-in-one Flower Power yarn.
Download the free flower granny square cardigan pattern on Gathered
8. Cool crochet tank top pattern
Can’t decide on a long or cropped tank top? Don’t worry, enjoy both with this cool crochet tank top pattern. You can choose to wear either length, or both together for a fab layered two-tone look.
With instructions for making in sizes 8 - 22, why not hook a whole load of them to fill out your summer wardrobe?
Buy the cool crochet tank top pattern from Etsy
9. Flower child jumper tee crochet pattern
Add a significant splash of colour into your wardrobe with this fun flower child jumper tee.
Colourful granny squares combine with zigzag chevron stripes to create a crochet t-shirt that really stands out.
This pattern was first published in Simply Crochet magazine issue 135, which you can purchase as a digital copy from Ravelry or from our Digital issues app.
10. Free lacy poncho crochet pattern
Our free poncho crochet pattern is the perfect lightweight layer to throw on when the summer sun goes down.
It may look complicated, but actually, this stylish design by Sharon Murphy is surprisingly simple. The lace stitch effect is almost entirely made from chains and treble stitches, and the construction is easy – it’s basically just a big rectangle!
Head to our free lacy poncho crochet pattern on Gathered
Warmer days don’t have to mean less crochet – just head on over to our list of summer crochet top patterns for more hot hooky makes.
11. Free lace sweater crochet pattern
Let’s keep that lovely lace styling going with our fab free sweater crochet pattern. This pretty pullover is adorned with lovely lace hearts, but no chart is needed as it’s made by simply switching between the two-stitch pattern.
It can be made in sizes 8 - 22 and is hooked in some lovely smooth bamboo dk yarn. If you’re looking to wear it in winter, you could always substitute the bamboo yarn for a warmer dk fibre, such as wool.
Find the free lace sweater crochet pattern on Gathered
12. Rainbow halter top crochet pattern
We’ve had a few crochet top patterns that are great for summer, but this one has got to be the most iconic! With its colourful rainbow design and tassel edging, it’s the ultimate outfit for festivals and summer parties.
This pattern was first published in Simply Crochet magazine issue 135, which you can purchase as a digital copy from Ravelry or from our Digital issues app.
13. Free granny square vest crochet pattern
This granny square vest is an elegant and stylish piece that could easily work its way into your everyday outfit rotation.
The top part of the vest is made using 3-round classic granny squares, with the lower part completed with a dainty fan stitch fabric that can be made as short or as long as you want.
- Find the free granny square vest crochet pattern on Gathered
14. Sleeveless tee crochet pattern
If these vest and halter tops are showing a bit too much shoulder for your liking, then you might prefer this fun colourblock sleeveless tee by Pat Strong. It features three different stitch sections, with contrasting stripes and edging to really help it pop.
This pattern was first published in Simply Crochet magazine issue 113, which you can purchase as a digital copy from Ravelry or from our Digital issues app.
15. Free granny square jumper embellishment pattern
Here’s something a little bit different for our final pattern pick. We’ve all got those old jumpers hiding in the back of the wardrobe – maybe one with a stain or hole on the front that stops you from wearing it anymore? Don’t give up on it just yet, breathe new life into it with this granny square embellishment project.
Using the dimensions of the jumper, you can use this embellishment pattern to create a whole new front for your garment made out of fun colourful granny squares.
Try this free granny square jumper embellishment pattern on Gathered
Hook a whole wardrobe of warming layers with our list of autumn/winter top crochet patterns
You can never have too many crochet top patterns
We love filling our wardrobe with crochet tops, and we think you will too. As with any crochet project, the more you make the more you learn. Over time, you might start feeling comfortable enough to try experimenting with patterns and bringing in different design elements.
Dress to impress
Whether you’re dressing for fancy evening soirees or casual summer parties, take your handmade garments one step further with these crochet dress patterns.
