Easy Quick Knit Crop Top Pattern (Cute For Summer)
THIS ARTICLE CONTAINS AFFILIATE LINKS THAT SUPPORT HANDY LITTLE ME CONTENT AND FREE PATTERNS.If you’re searching for a fun and quick knit crop top pattern to wear this summer, this beginner-friendly project is just the thing!
This lightweight top is made from breathable cotton yarn in two contrasting colors and can be worn in two different ways.
It’s the perfect addition to your warm-weather wardrobe—whether you’re heading to the beach or lounging at home.
Please scroll down to view the free pattern or grab the inexpensive ad-free PDF in my shop here.
Knit A Stylish Summer Crop Top
This easy knit crop top pattern is a great project for beginner knitters.
It’s worked in two square panels with no shaping, using only basic stitches.
Made with The Cotton yarn from We Are Knitters, this design features a breezy openwork stitch and reversible color styling—making it a wardrobe essential for hot days.
Wear it with shorts, jeans, or layered over your swimsuit for effortless summer style.
The Stitches and Techniques You’ll Need
This pattern uses the knit stitch, purl stitch, and a simple lace technique using yarn forward (YF).
To create the stitch pattern, you’ll use:
- YF (yarn forward)
- K2
- Pass the yarn forward stitch over the knitted stitches
You can follow along with this technique on my YouTube video tutorial:
How To YF K2 Pass Increased Stitch Over
Make a matching Summer Set
Planning your handmade vacation wardrobe?
These coordinating patterns will complete your look:
Helpful knitting tutorials and resources
Whether you’re brand new or brushing up on basics, these tutorials will help you along the way:
- Knitting Lessons
- How to knit – A complete beginner’s guide
- How to cast on knitting
- How to cast off knitting for total beginners (step by step)
- How to knit garter stitch
- How to knit the purl stitch (for beginners + a video tutorial)
- How to knit stockinette stitch (for beginners)
- How to read knitting patterns for beginners
- Knitting abbreviations and terms (US and UK)
Free Knit Crop Top Pattern
Skill Level – Basic (Beginner)
Pattern notes
- This top is knit flat in two square panels (front and back) and seamed at the sides and shoulders.
- It uses a simple 2-row lace repeat.
- It’s a quick knit with no shaping.
- The fit is loose and flowy, perfect for warm summer days.
Copyright Info
- Please do not copy, sell, redistribute, or republish this 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 the copyrighted photos for your product listing.
- For the copyright T&C, please read my Terms of Use.
Size Information
Gauge
14 sts in 18 rows in 10×10 cm/4×4 inches measured over stitch pattern.
Measurements/Sizes
- Available to make in 8 sizes – Size XS to 5XL.
- The sizes – S / M / L-XL / 1X / 2X / 3X / 4X / 5X
- Finished Bust About – 36 (38, 40, 42, 46, 48, 50, 54) in.
- Finished Length About – 15, (16 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22) inches.
- To make the top in a larger size, you can cast on more stitches x 6 so for the next size up, you cast on 112, then 118, etc.
- You will also need to purchase more yarn if you are making the top in a larger size, than what is listed in the pattern.
The supplies you need…
Yarn
- 1 (1, 1, 2, 2, 3, 3) x We Are Knitters – The Cotton in the color Light Salmon
- 1 (1, 1, 2, 2, 3, 3) x We Are Knitters – The Cotton in the color Natural
- This cotton is 100% Pima Cotton/10g/3.05oz/232 yds/212m.
- Use my code – MGM4VHHAT – for 10 off on your WAK yarn order.
Needles
- 6 mm (US 10) knitting needles.
- I used interchangeable circulars on a 24″ cable to accommodate the number of stitches.
- You can use straight needles or a circular needle – this top is knit flat, not in the round.
Notions
- Scissors.
- Darning needle.
- Tape measure.
- Stitch markers.
Knitting abbreviations
You can grab a free list of US and UK knitting terms here.
- K – knit
- P – purl
- Rep – repeat
- RS – right side
- St(s) – stitches
- WS – wrong side
- YF – yarn forward
Knit Crop Top Pattern Instructions
Front and back…
This top is knit in two panels with no shaping.
- Knit one panel in Yarn A – Natural
- Knit one panel in Yarn B – Light Salmon
With 6 mm (US 10) knitting needles cast on 68 (74, 80, 86, 90, 96, 100, 106)sts.
Rows 1 and 2: Knit
3rd row (RS): K1 edge, *YF, K2, pass increased stitch over knitted sts*, rep from * to * to last st, K1.
4th row (WS): Purl all sts.
You can view a video tutorial to help you on my YouTube channel here – How To YF K2 Pass Increased Stitch Over.
The last 2 rows form the pattern, rep until the piece measures 15, (16 17, 18, 19, 20, 2, 22) inches from the cast-on edge.
*Please note you can adjust the length easily, to make your top shorter or longer. Knit fewer rows for a shorter length or add more rows for a longer length.
Knit 2 rows.
Cast off.
You can leave a length for seaming – around 20+ inches.
Weave in any other loose ends you do not need for seaming.
Finishing/making up
Weave in any loose ends you don’t need (weave along the seams).
Seam the shoulders on either side using the mattress stitch.
Each shoulder seam should measure – 4.5 (5, 5.5, 6, 6.5, 7, 7.5, 7.5) inches.
Stitch the side seams on either side of the top using the mattress stitch.
Each side seam should measure – 8 (8.5, 8.5, 9, 9, 10, 10, 11) inches.
Please note – You can adjust how long your shoulder seams and side seams are for your own preference.
Weave in any loose ends.
*Tip – Place markers where you have measured your shoulder seams and side seams to make the seaming easier.
Grab The Ad-Free Printable PDF Pattern Here…
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I’d love to see your work.
Happy Knitting!
What Do You Wear Under A Knitted Crop Top?
Wearing a knitted crop top offers a lot of versatility and style options, allowing you to create looks that range from casual to chic, depending on what you wear underneath.
Here are some suggestions:
1. High-Waisted Bottoms:
- Pairing a knitted crop top with high-waisted jeans, shorts, or skirts minimizes the amount of skin shown and can create a balanced silhouette. This is a great everyday look that’s both comfortable and stylish.
2. Layer Over a Dress:
- For a unique and stylish outfit, layer your knitted crop top over a slip dress or a sundress. This adds texture and interest to your look, making it ideal for outings or casual events.
3. Bralette or Bandeau:
- Wearing a bralette or bandeau under a knitted crop top is a popular choice, especially if the top is somewhat sheer or has an open knit pattern. This combination is perfect for a laid-back, bohemian vibe.
4. Camisole or Tank Top:
- For more coverage, consider wearing a fitted camisole or tank top underneath your crop top. This is particularly useful if the knit is loose or if you prefer to keep your midriff covered. Choose a color that complements or closely matches your crop top for a cohesive look.
5. Under a Blazer or Jacket:
- For a more sophisticated or professional outfit, wear your knitted crop top under a blazer or jacket. This works well for cooler weather or for occasions that call for a more polished appearance.
6. With a High-Waisted Pencil Skirt:
- Pairing a knitted crop top with a high-waisted pencil skirt creates a sleek, elegant look that’s suitable for more formal events or evenings out.
7. Sports Bra for Active Wear:
- If your knitted crop top is part of an active or sporty ensemble, wearing a supportive sports bra underneath provides both comfort and functionality.
8. Layered Over a Collared Shirt:
- For a preppy, fashion-forward look, layer your knitted crop top over a collared button-down shirt. This look works well for transitioning into fall or for creating an outfit with a bit of edge.
9. Swimwear:
- At the beach or poolside, a knitted crop top can be stylishly worn over a bikini top, making it easy to transition from water to a casual outing.
Choosing what to wear under a knitted crop top ultimately depends on your personal style, the occasion, and the level of coverage you’re comfortable with.
Experimenting with different combinations can help you find the perfect look that’s both fashionable and true to your personal style.
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