Free Checkered Cropped Top Pattern In Every Color

This chic checkered crochet crop top is a standout piece that pairs simplicity with high-impact style. Inspired by trendy Pinterest aesthetics, this project uses the tapestry (carried yarn) technique to achieve a sharp geometric finish.

Model sizing & calculation

The design is a large rectangle that wraps around the torso and laces up at the back. To customize for any size:

• Measure Bust: Take the full bust measurement. (Example used: 84 cm). [01:38]

• Calculate Width: Divide the bust measurement by 2 (84 / 2 = 42 cm). To account for the natural stretch of crochet, subtract about 25% of that value. (Example calculation: 42 cm – 11 cm = 31 cm final chain length). [02:57]

Materials Needed

• Yarn: Barroco No. 6 (100% cotton) in two contrasting colors (e.g., Brown and Cream). [03:59]

• Hook: 3.0 mm or 3.5 mm crochet hook. [03:47]

• Notions: Measuring tape, scissors, and a tapestry needle for finishing.

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Pattern Phase 1: The Base Chain

Construct the foundation based on your custom width.

• Foundation: Chain until your piece reaches your calculated width (approx. 31 cm for size S). In the video, this equaled 55 chains. [04:33]

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• Structure: The pattern is worked in blocks of 5 stitches wide by 4 rows high. [05:05]

Pattern Phase 2: Checkerboard Rows (Fio Conduzido)

Harness the carried yarn technique to switch colors seamlessly.

1. Row 1 (Color A): Work 4 single crochets (sc). On the 5th sc, insert hook, pull up a loop, and finish the stitch using Color B. [06:19]

2. Color Management: Keep the unused yarn (Color A) laying across the top of the previous row. Work your next stitches over this yarn to “carry” it inside the stitches. [07:00]

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3. Row 1 (Color B): Work 4 sc with Color B. On the 5th sc, switch back to Color A to finish the stitch. [07:55]

4. Repeat: Continue this sequence across the row. With 55 chains, you will have 11 alternating blocks. [10:25]

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5. Rows 2-4: Turn and repeat the same color sequence as Row 1 to build the height of the squares. [13:41]

Pattern Phase 3: Inverting the Pattern

After completing 4 rows, switch the placement of the colors to create the “checkered” effect.

1. Switch: Where you previously worked Color A, now work Color B, and vice versa. [19:04]

2. Block Height: Work another 4 rows in this new configuration. [20:53]

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3. Total Length: Continue alternating these 4-row blocks until the top reaches your desired height. The video uses 20 rows total (5 blocks of color sets) for a standard crop fit. [24:23]

Pattern Phase 4: Straps & Finishing

The top is secured with long integrated ties.

1. Shoulder Straps: At the top corner of the rectangle, create a long foundation chain (approx. 100-150 chains) to serve as a tie. [25:35]

2. Top Edging: Work 1 sc into every stitch across the top edge of the rectangle to stabilize the piece. [26:10]

3. Second Strap: Once you reach the other corner, create a matching long chain. [27:03]

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4. Assembly: Weave the long straps through the side edges of the rectangle at the back in a “criss-cross” corset style to wear. [27:40]