Easy crochet a summer mesh top/The Lila Top


 If you’re looking for a quick and fun crochet project that’s perfect for summer, a mesh top is the way to go. It’s light, airy, stylish, and incredibly beginner-friendly. Whether you want a relaxed beach cover-up or a trendy overlay piece, this project will become a go-to in your handmade wardrobe.  In this blog post, I’ll show you how to crochet this lovely and classic mesh top that’s practical  as well as fantastic.

 What You'll Need

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  • Yarn: Lightweight cotton yarn,  4 skeins. You can buy the yarn here. View Price
  • Hook: 4.5mm. You can buy the hook here. View Price
  • Scissors
  • Yarn needle
  • Measuring tape
  • Stitch markers (optional)

 Stitches used for this pattern

  • V- Stitch (1dc, 1ch, 1dc)
  • Half-double crochet
  • Double crochet 

Abbreviations used:

  • Ch- Chain
  • Dc- Double Crochet
  • Hdc- Half-double Crochet
  • St(s)- Stitch(es)
  • V-Stitches- 1Double crochet, 1Chain, 1Double Crochet

 

Choosing the Right Yarn & Hook

Choose from breathable yarns like cotton, bamboo, or linen for that basic summer feel. A bigger hook size will give you a looser, lacier mesh, perfect for hot days.

1. Take Your Measurements

Use a measuring tape to determine the width and length you want for your front and back panels. Use this measurement in deciding the number of chains that the stitch needs.  Mesh is stretchy, so you can size down for a snug fit or go loose for an oversized look.

 

You can watch the step-by-step tutorial below



Basic Mesh Stitch Pattern

For this mesh stitch pattern, we are using a multiple of 6+8. A v-stitch, half double, and double crochet are used in this mesh stitch. This creates an open and flowy fabric with lots of stretch and drape.

Mesh Stitch Pattern: Written Pattern

Row 1:  Chain your desired width using the multiples. For a small size, I chained 74.  1dc in 2nd ch from hook and in each ch across, turn yarn.

Row 2: Ch1, 1hdc in very first dc * Ch1, skip next dc, 1hdc in next dc * Repeat from * to * all the way across the row, turn yarn

Row 3: Ch1, 1dc in each dc across and 1dc in each ch1 space across, turn yarn.

Row 4: Ch1, 2dc in very first dc, skip next 2dc * Work (1dc, ch1, 1dc) in next dc, skip next 2dc * Repeat from * to * all the way across the row until 1dc remains, 2dc in last dc, turn 

Row 5: Ch1, 1dc in each dc across and 1dc in each ch1 space across, turn 

 For rows 6 -35, repeat rows 2-5 until you reach your desired length, finishing on row 5.

Row 42: Ch 1, make a sl st into each stitch across the row. Fasten off the yarn and weave in all the yarn ends.

18” wide (with sleeves 25” wide) by 18” long

 

 Making the Lila Mesh Top

2. Create Two Panels

Using the mesh stitch pattern, crochet two identical rectangles — one for the front, one for the back. Each panel should match your desired width and length. You can make the panels whatever length and width you want.

For example, if you want a shorter top.
Crop Top Style – 16” wide by 18” long
Tunic Style – 20” wide by 26” long

 

 

3.  Create Two Sleeve Panels. ( You can choose to make sleeves or to keep it sleeveless)

Using the mesh stitch pattern, Rows 1-5 crochet two small rectangles — one sleeve for the left and right side, each panel should match your desired width and length.

4. Assemble Your Top

  • Place both panels together, right sides facing in.
  • Use the whip stitch to join:

The shoulders (leave space for the neckline)

The sides (leave armholes — usually 6-8” from the top)

  • Flip the top right side out.

5. Add Finishing Touches (optional)

  • Sleeve Edging: Sc evenly around the armholes for a clean edge.
  • Bottom Hem: Add a round or two of SC or ribbing for structure.
  • Neckline design: Optional, but you can add another row of Slip stitches or use a single crochet stitch for a polished look.

 

And your Lila Mesh top is done. Have fun crocheting.

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