Carolina Crop Top: Crochet Summer Top Video Tutorial (XS-4XL)

Get ready for warm days with the Carolina Crop Top by Sierra Fontaine. This summer top has a solid band at the bottom, a pretty mesh center and neckline, two small straps for extra support and a lace-up back you can adjust for a perfect fit. The video tutorial gives the numbers for sizes XS to 4XL, so you can follow along whatever your size.

Carolina Crop Top at a Glance

• Designer: Sierra Fontaine
• Sizes: XS to 4XL
• Yarn: medium weight (4) cotton or cotton blend
• Hook: 4.5 mm
• Features: mesh center, two straps and a lace-up back
• Video length: about 41 minutes

What You'll Need

• Medium weight (4) cotton yarn. 100% cotton or a cotton blend gives the best result; acrylic works but will not drape the same way
• A 4.5 mm crochet hook
• A stitch marker, a yarn needle, scissors and a measuring tape

Cotton is the best choice for a summer top. It is breathable, holds the shape of the mesh and softens with every wash.

How the Top Is Made

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The video follows the order you will work the top in:

1. Body: a solid band worked to fit around your chest. Take your measurement first, since the band sets the fit.
2. Mesh section: a simple chain-and-single-crochet mesh grows from the center of the band, getting wider as you go.
3. Straps: two small straps are added at the top for support. The number of chain spaces changes by size and is shown on screen.
4. Finishing and lacing: the edges are finished and a long cord is laced through the back to close the top.

Why the Lace-Up Back Works So Well

Because the back is laced, you can tighten or loosen the top until it feels just right. It also makes the top forgiving if your gauge is a little off, and gives it that cute, open summer look.

Images and pattern courtesy of Sierra Fontaine

Enjoy the Video Tutorial

Source: Sierra Fontaine

Tips for a Great Fit

• Measure twice. Check your bust and underbust measurements before you start the band.
• Try it on as you go. Hold the band around you before starting the mesh, and again before the straps.
• Keep the mesh relaxed. Tight chains make the mesh pucker; loose, even chains help it drape.
• Style it. Wear it with high-waisted shorts, a skirt or over a bikini top at the beach.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this crop top beginner friendly?
Yes. It uses basic stitches, and the video walks through every section with the numbers for each size.

Can I make it longer?
Yes. Add more rows to the bottom band before starting the mesh for a longer top.

More from Sierra Fontaine

Try her easy triangle scarf, the waffle stitch headband or the fingerless gloves.