Feel cool and stylish all season long with this free crochet mesh crop top pattern that’s perfect for any summer adventure or casual outfit.

A lacy top can change your look in a simple and stylish way. Soft open stitches create a breezy design that keeps you cool and comfortable, making every day feel easy. The crochet mesh crop top pattern has a lovely airy texture, giving it a fresh and modern style that stands out in a crowd. You can wear it over a basic shirt for extra charm or by itself to show off its unique pattern.

Free Crochet Mesh Crop Top Pattern for Every Wardrobe

Its softness feels gentle on your skin and gives you freedom to move, which is perfect for relaxing or having fun. This top brings both beauty and usefulness, dressing up your jeans or skirts for any outing. Easy steps and light yarn help even new makers create something they will love wearing.

Cropped Mesh Top (Spring/Summer)

Materials List

Yarn: 1 skein Red Heart Super Saver Ombre (weight #4, acrylic), or similar medium/worsted weight yarn of your choice
Hook: 5.0 mm (H-8) crochet hook, or size needed for gauge and drape
Notions:
- Measuring tape (for personal fit)
- Yarn needle (for weaving ends)
- Scissors
- Steamer (optional, for finishing)

Key Abbreviations (US Terms)

ch – chain
dc – double crochet
sc – single crochet
sl st – slip stitch
sp – space
st(s) – stitch(es)
rep – repeat

Special Notes

The top is worked in two mesh panels, front and back, which are then joined together.
Sizing is easily customized: measure your bust and desired length for a perfect fit.
The mesh uses a simple one-row repeat for an airy, breathable fabric; add more/fewer chains for width and more/fewer rows for length.
Sleeves are optional; simple rounds of mesh can be added at the end.
Acrylic yarn is warm; for a true summer top, consider a cotton blend.
This pattern is written for a cropped length with short mesh sleeves, but can be adjusted.

Pattern

Step 1: Take Your Measurements

Bust: Wrap measuring tape around the fullest part of your bust.
Length: Measure from your shoulder to where you want the top to fall (waist or above navel for a cropped look).
Armhole Depth: Measure around your shoulder/arm to determine hole size or reference a well-fitting tee.

Step 2: Make the Mesh Panel (Make TWO: Front and Back)

Foundation Chain

Ch a multiple of 2 + 3 until foundation chain equals your bust measurement (allowing for stretch and positive ease). Example: For a 34″ bust, ch until it measures 16–17″ (front panel), for a relaxed fit.
Row 1: Dc in 6th ch from hook (counts as dc, ch 2, skip 2 ch, dc in next).
[Ch 2, skip 2 ch, dc in next ch] across. Turn.
Row 2: Ch 5 (counts as dc + ch 2), [dc in next dc, ch 2] across. Dc in turning ch. Turn.
Repeat Row 2 until desired length is reached (try on as you go), typically 12–15 rows for cropped fit.

Step 3: Shaping the Armholes

On the FINAL row of each panel, leave desired number of mesh “blocks” open at each end to serve as armholes. (E.g., skip 3–5 mesh spaces, do not work into those at each edge.)
Fasten off; weave in ends.

Step 4: Assembly

Place panels together, right sides facing.
Seam the shoulder edges: Join with sl st, sc, or whipstitch the number of mesh “blocks” needed for shoulder width—leave openings for neck and armholes.
Seam the sides: Join from hem upwards, leaving armhole space unseamed (match rows so arm holes are even). Try on to confirm fit.

Step 5: Optional—Add Cropped Mesh Sleeves

With RS facing, attach yarn to armhole edge.
Rnd 1: Ch 5 (counts as dc, ch 2), work [dc in next mesh sp, ch 2] around armhole, sl st to join.
Repeat Rnd 1 for 2–4 rounds or desired sleeve length.
Repeat for other arm.

Step 6: Finishing

Bottom Edge (Optional): For a neat finish, sc evenly across the hem.
Steam block if desired, to soften yarn and shape stitches.
Weave in all ends using a yarn needle.
Try on and style as desired!

Conclusion

You have completed a vibrant Cropped Mesh Top—lightweight, customizable, and quick to make. Try different colors, yarn types, or sleeve and hem treatments to suit your style. This piece is perfect for layering over tanks or bralettes in spring and summer.

Pattern Correction & Tips

Measuring is key! Always verify your chain length and fit before working full rows.
Try on as you go. Adjust width/length/sleeve rounds as preferred.
If you want a longer top, simply add more rows before seaming.
For less transparency, use a smaller hook or finer mesh (ch 1 between dcs).
Cotton or bamboo yarn is cooler for summer wear.
Steam, rather than iron, for a gentle finish on acrylic.