Beach Knit Cover-Up (Free Knitting Pattern)

Looking for the perfect beach accessory?

Our Beach Knit Cover-Up (Free Knitting Pattern) is just what you need!

This breezy and stylish cover-up is easy to make and ideal for keeping cool while adding a touch of handmade charm to your summer wardrobe.

Grab your favorite cotton yarn, and let’s get knitting!

Scroll down to view the free pattern online, or grab the inexpensive, ad-free PDF pattern in my shop here.

Beach Knit Cover-Up (Free Knitting Pattern)

Knit Cover-Up Pattern

Skill Level – Easy (Advanced beginner)

Notes

Make a splash with our knitted chevron beach cover-up!

Featuring a stylish zigzag pattern (you can change the colors for your personal style), this lightweight and airy cover-up is perfect for layering over your favorite swimsuit on your next beach day.

Crafted with soft, breathable yarn, it provides comfort and chic beach style.

Ideal for sunny days and cool evenings, this easy-to-knit beachy cover-up will be your go-to summer accessory on your next vacation.

Knit your own and elevate your beachwear wardrobe!

Grab the ad-free printable PDF pattern here.

Copyright Info

Please do not copy, sell, redistribute, or republish this knit cover-up pattern.
If you wish to share this pattern, please provide a link to the pattern page only.
You may sell items produced using this pattern.
Do NOT use copyrighted photos for your product listing.
For the copyright T&C, please read my Terms of Use.

Size Information

The knit cover-up shown in the photos is an adult woman’s medium.
Sizes = Small, Medium, Large, XL, XXL, XXXL.
Finished Full Length (around) = 33 (36, 39, 42, 45, 48) inches /84 (91, 99, 107, 114, 122) cm.
When choosing your correct size you do not need to size up, as there are hybrid sizes.
The incredible drape of this piece means that it will be loose and light to get on and off when worn.

Gauge – 16 stitches and 20 rows in 4 x 4 inches/10 x 10 cm measured in the chevron stitch.

You can make a gauge swatch to test before starting.

The supplies you need…

Yarn

The Cotton (from We Are Knitters) is in four colors.
Yarn A = Black x (1, 1, 2, 2, 3, 3)
Yarn B = Sprinkle Beige x (2, 2, 3, 3, 4, 4)
Yarn C = Mustard x (1, 1, 2, 2, 3, 3)
Yarn D = Canyon Rose x (1, 1, 2, 2, 3, 3)
This yarn is 3.5 oz/100g/232 yds/212 m.
Use my code – MGM4VHHAT – for 10 off on your WAK yarn order.
Aran/worsted yarn/10-ply yarn.
The total amount needed for each size in yards = 1,160, 1,160, 2,088, 2,088, 3, 016, 3,016.

Knitting Needle Size

5 mm (US 8) Knitting needles
I used circular needles, and there were many stitches.
The pieces are knit flat back and forth – not in the round.

Notions

Scissors
Darning needle/yarn needle
Tape measure

Knitting Abbreviations

Approx – Approximately
Beg – Beginning
Cont – Continue(ing)
K – Knit
KFB – Knit into the front and back of the stitch to increase
K2tog – Knit the next two stitches together (Decrease)
P – Purl
Rem – Remaining
Rep – Repeat
RS – Right side
SSK – Slip Slip Knit (Decrease)
St(s) – Stitch(es)
WS – Wrong side
YO – Yarn over

Beach Cover-Up Knitting Pattern Instructions

This stitch pattern is worked in multiples of 15 stitches.

Make two pieces the same.

With Yarn A cast on 75 (90, 105, 120, 135, 150) sts.

Row 1 (RS): *K2tog, K4, KFB, K1, KFB, K4, SSK; Rep from * to end of row.
Row 2 (WS): Purl.
Repeat rows 1 and 2 for 8 more rows.
Change to Yarn B and work 10 rows in the pattern (repeating rows 1 and 2).
Change to Yarn C and work 10 rows in the pattern (repeating rows 1 and 2).
Change to Yarn B and work 10 rows in the pattern (repeating rows 1 and 2).
Change to Yarn D and work 10 rows in the pattern (repeating rows 1 and 2).
Change to Yarn B and work 10 rows in the pattern (repeating rows 1 and 2).

Continue to repeat the color sequence working 10 rows of each color, until the piece measures 66 (72, 78, 84, 90, 96) inches/168 (183, 198, 213, 228, 244) cm.

You can, of course, adjust the length for your size if you wish for it to be shorter or longer.

*Please note; As you will be folding the extra long panels in half – you may want to check your color pattern once the piece is folded for a continuation of the colors when seamed.

You will see that the mustard and canyon rose colors do not match; you can switch the color changes up if you want them to match in the end result.

Making Up

You will have two long lengths of knitted fabric that will be seamed to create the beach cover-up.

Follow the diagram below…

You will start by laying both pieces out flat and seaming the center panels together to create a V shape for the neckline when worn.

What Is The Best Yarn For A Swimsuit Cover-Up?

The best yarn weight for a knit beach cover-up typically falls within the category of lightweight yarns, such as fingering, sport, or DK weight yarn, or a worsted weight yarn.

A DK weight cotton yarn or a worsted weight cotton yarn are ideal because they create a fabric that is airy, breathable, and comfortable to wear in warm weather.

Cotton or linen blends are popular choices due to their moisture-wicking properties and ability to keep you cool even in the heat.

These yarns also tend to dry relatively quickly, making them perfect for beachside adventures.

How many skeins of yarn do you need for a beach cover up?

The number of skeins of yarn needed for a knit beach cover-up can vary depending on factors such as the chosen yarn weight, stitch pattern, and desired size.

For sizes XS to XL, a rough estimate could be approximately 5 to 7 skeins of yarn (1000-17000 yds), assuming a standard-size beach cover-up with minimal shaping and a lightweight yarn such as cotton or linen blend.

Larger sizes may require slightly more yarn to accommodate the extra width and length.

It’s always a good idea to purchase an extra skein or two to ensure you have enough yarn to complete your project, especially if you’re using a specific dye lot or colorway.

Additionally, if you plan to incorporate stripes or color blocking, you may need additional skeins of yarn for each color.

Consulting the yarn label for yardage information and considering the yardage required for your chosen pattern will help you estimate the amount of yarn needed accurately.

Learn everything about the different yarn weights here – Yarn Weight Guide {+ Conversion Chart}
Learn how to read a yarn label here – How To Read A Yarn Label (Step By Step)
Learn everything about yarn fibers here – Yarn Types Explained: A Guide To Different Fibers

What Are The Best Knitting Needles For A Beach Cover-Up?

The best knitting needles for a beach cover-up depend on personal preference and the chosen yarn weight.

However, circular needles are often preferred for larger projects like cover-ups because they can hold a large number of stitches comfortably, making it easier to manage the width of your project.

Additionally, they allow you to knit back and forth in rows without having to turn your work, which can be convenient for projects with a lot of stitches.

For beach cover-ups, it’s also a good idea to consider using needles made of materials like bamboo or wood, as they tend to be lightweight and won’t heat up as much in the sun, providing a more comfortable knitting experience.

Ultimately, the best needles are the ones that feel comfortable in your hands and suit your preferred knitting style.

What Is The Best Stitch For A Knit Beach Cover Up?

When choosing the best stitch for a knit beach cover-up, it’s essential to consider both aesthetics and functionality.

An easy lace stitch can be an excellent choice as it adds visual interest and breathability to the garment.

One option could be a simple eyelet lace pattern, which involves yarn overs and decreases to create decorative holes in the fabric.

This stitch pattern is relatively easy to knit and creates a lightweight and airy fabric, perfect for warm-weather wear.

Additionally, incorporating special stitches like dropped stitches or mesh patterns can further enhance the beachy vibe of the cover-up while allowing for quick drying and excellent drape.

Overall, selecting a stitch pattern that strikes a balance between simplicity and elegance will result in a knit beach cover-up that is both stylish and practical for seaside adventures.

What Do You Need To Knit A Beach Cover-Up?

To knit a beach cover-up, you’ll need several essential materials.

Depending on the design you select, you may also need stitch markers, a tape measure, and a yarn needle/tapestry needle for seaming the back panel to the front panel, doing a shoulder seam or for finishing touches.

Finally, don’t forget to have a pair of scissors handy for cutting yarn as needed.

With these supplies on hand, you’ll be well-equipped to knit a stylish and practical beach cover-up for your summer days.

How To Measure For A Knit Beach Cover-Up?

To measure for a knit beach cover-up, you’ll need a flexible measuring tape and possibly a friend to assist you for more accurate measurements.

Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Bust/Chest Measurement: Wrap the measuring tape around the fullest part of your bust or chest, ensuring it is parallel to the ground and snug but not tight. Record this measurement.
Waist Measurement: Locate your natural waist, which is typically the narrowest part of your torso. Wrap the measuring tape around your waist, ensuring it is comfortably snug but not constricting. Record this measurement.
Hip Measurement: Measure around the fullest part of your hips, usually around the widest part of your buttocks. Make sure the measuring tape is parallel to the ground and not too tight. Record this measurement.
Length Measurement: Determine the length of your beach cover-up. Measure from the top of your shoulder down to where you want the hem to fall. This will vary depending on your preference for length, whether you want it to be a short tunic or a long summer dress-style cover-up.

Ensure to write down all measurements accurately to guide you in selecting the appropriate size or customizing your knit beach cover-up pattern to fit your body perfectly.

How Can You Wear Your Knit Summer Cover-Up?

Your knit summer cover-up offers versatile styling options for various beach or poolside occasions.

For a beach casual look, wear your cover up over your your bathing suit.

For a comfortable fit, you can also wear it over your bikini top and jeans shorts.

For a more elegant vibe, you can also wear it over a lightweight summer dress or a tank top and a long skirt.

Experimenting with different styling options will allow you to showcase your personal flair while staying comfortable and chic in your knit summer cover-up.

Choosing the perfect yarn like cotton or something with a slinky bamboo content can help to create a lovely beach dress.

No matter what, you are going to have a wonderful summer outfit for your summer adventures.

Knitting Lessons

If you are a new knitter and need help with the knitting basics, check out these posts here – Knitting Lessons (With Video Tutorials).

There, you will find step-by-step tutorials for all the different knitting techniques a newbie needs to know.

Including how to cast on, how to bind off, how to knit the basic knit stitches, how to knit the knit stitch, how to knit the purl stitch, the stockinette stitch, the rib stitch, the garter stitch, the mattress stitch, short rows, how to yarn over(yo), how to measure gauge, how to fix knitting mistakes, and a list of knitting abbreviations (UK + US terms), and more.

For an easy level knitting pattern and more pattern recommendations, check out this pattern category – Beginner Knitters

And if you need more video tutorials to help you practice your basic knitting skills, check out my YouTube channel here – Handy Little Me – YouTube.

Summer Knitting Patterns

For more summer knits and unique gift ideas, check out the patterns below.

Could You Share Your Work With Us…

I love seeing your finished projects on social media.

If you enjoyed making the knit cover-up, I’d love to see yours on Instagram, be sure to tag me @handylittleme.

If you are on Facebook, stop over to the Handylittleme Facebook Group and share a photo.

You can also check out my Facebook page here.

You can also find us on Pinterest, Ravelry, and Twitter.

I’d love to see your work.

Happy Knitting!

More Free Knitting Patterns You May Be Interested In…

4 Comments

Leslie says:

May 26, 2022 at 4:19 pm

What are the dimensions of the finished cover up? I want to try to make it in a larger size.

1. Louise Bollanos says:
  
  May 27, 2022 at 3:26 pm
  
  Hello Leslie,
  I don’t actually have this piece anymore to give you the dimensions as it was made a very long time ago when I first started this website.
  But to make the top larger, it would be easy enough to do, by just adding more cast-on stitches.
  So for example, if you have a tee shirt you wear, you can measure and just from that.
  I would suggest using a circular needle on a long cable – 100cm/40″ or longer to then measure your cast on stitches against your tee shirt measurements.
  For an L size, I would suggest casting on 50 sts, XL 60 sts, 1X 70sts, and so on.
  The yarn is thick so you will be able to easily see if it looks too long for your shoulder width or not.
  If you need more help, send me an email and we can discuss it.
  Thanks,
  Louise
  
Calyn says:

June 7, 2022 at 9:05 am

Hi there, can you please suggest a substitute yarn for this pattern?

1. Louise Bollanos says:
  
  June 7, 2022 at 9:15 am
  
  Hello Calyn,
  You could take a look at Knit Picks – Memento Cotton, Lana Grossa – Star, Deramores – Studio Cotton, Knit Picks – Dishie, Lion Brand – Pima Cotton, Berroco – Pima 100, Queensland Collection – Coastal Cotton.
  You would have to check that the cotton you use can be used with the hook size given in the pattern.
  I hope that helps!
  Louise