Crochet for Summer? Whaaa??

I'm fired!  I promise to post at least once per week and I failed to do it right off the bat!  I could list any number of excuses (internet trouble, newborn, not in the habit), but that would be lame.  Not posting last week bothered me because I am not usually the type of person to not do something.  Nonetheless, I am back today and ready to roll!!

Let me start the topic of crop tops by saying I have resisted them for at least two years now.  I couldn't really pin point a reason, but I have not been into the idea of making them.  Luckily I decided to give them a go this year and I have to say - they are fun!!  This post will take you to five patterns I have used so far this season and show you photos of my finished products from the patterns.  First up, Breezy Summer Crochet Halter Top.

Breezy Summer Crochet Halter

This pattern comes to you courtesy of Taylor Lynn Crochet and you can find the pattern her site by clicking here. The pattern is easy to follow and quick to make.  I was able to make this green one with scraps and it was a hit!  I had a request for a custom order within 24 hours.  The customer was a husband wanting to purchase this for his wife.  He gave me an idea on a main color and wanted to know what kinds of accent colors to use.  I created color pallets for him to choose from and he ultimately left the choice up to me after he sent me a photo of his wife.

Custom Order Breezy Summer Halter

 I have to be honest, it was fun to create the color pallets and have them ready to show a client on the fly.  That was new for me.  

You will notice the finished item from the custom order is a bit large on the mannequin, and that is because the order was for a size larger than the mannequin.  This pattern is very easy to make to any size.  I had to alter the original pattern to fit the mannequin and then use the written pattern for the custom order.  If you are looking for a place to start with crop tops or halter tops, this is the pattern to start with!!  

Lex Crop Top

This purple beauty is the Lex Crop Top from Wool and the Gang and you can download their pattern here.  Scroll to the second row of patterns and you will find it there.

The pattern for this is easy and comes in two sizes: S and M/L.  It is easy to follow and works up quickly.  This would be a fun project to make for a night out top or for a day on the town.

The top shown here is worked in Caron Simply Soft.

Coral Summer Halter Top

 Next up the Coral Summer Halter Top.  You can find this pattern as a free download from Ravelry.  You will be able to download a PDF of the pattern.

Side note: if you are not a member or have never heard of Revelry, now is the time to check it out!!

This one is another easy to work up pattern and is easily adjustable.  The beautiful detail on the bottom of this one it what caught my eye.  This would make a beautiful bikini top!  I would recommend lining the cups for obvious reasons.

My version of the halter has one strap a different color because I ran out of the green yarn.  That is what I get for working with scrap yarn!

Liberty Crop Top

Liberty Crop Top

 Number four on the list is the Liberty Crop Top by Yarn Hooks and Needles.  Check the pattern and the blog out here!

So here is the fun this about this pattern - you can work it in a single color, but it is AWESOME in cake yarn.  It is great because of the color blocking affect the yarn will have.  The colors are fun and it makes the top fun to show off!  There is no designated front and back to this top, so you can wear it either way and have two tops!!  This pattern is easy to manipulate to fit any size person and is a quick project!!

Some common sense words: be mindful of your gauge when making any kind of garment, also pay attention to the suggested yarn weight - it will impact your gauge even if you have the correct hook.

Happy summer crocheting!!