A hand made granny square bikini top is a really fun summer project. It has that colorful retro feel and is a lovely way to take simple crochet squares and make them into something playful and beachy and wearable.
WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS PROJECT
If you love the classic granny square but want to create something a little more fashionable, this project is perfect! The shape is simple, the design is customizable and you can play with the colors to make it feel totally your own.
WHAT YOU REQUIRE
- Superfine threads
- 3.5mm crochet hook
- Snips
- Darning needle
WHAT KIND OF YARN IS BEST FOR THIS PROJECT
A light weight cotton or cotton blend yarn works best for a bikini style top as it is cooler, holds its shape better and gives a cleaner stitch finish.
LEVEL OF SKILL
Easy and beginner friendly if you already know basic stitches in crochet.
SIZE GUIDE
Granny squares should be large enough to give you the coverage you want. Change the size by adding or stopping rounds. Adjust straps and ties to fit your body comfortably.
CHAIN USED STITCHING
- Chain
- Double crochet
- Slip stitch
HOW TO DO IT
Begin the Granny Squares
Start by making the granny squares for the front of the bikini top. Work in rounds, making the square shape with chain spaces and groups of double crochet stitches.
Create Square No. 2
Crochet the second square to match for the other side. Try to keep your tension even so both pieces are level.
Piecing It All Together
Lay the two granny squares where you would like them to sit on the bust. Join them neatly together in the middle, so they make the front of the bikini top.
Add the Ties
Crochet ties for neck and back. Make sure they are long enough to tie comfortably and adjust the fit to suit you.
Seal the Edges
Trim the edges and weave in all the loose ends. Try on and make any minor adjustments prior to wearing.
USEFUL TIPS
- Keep your tension even so the squares are even.
- Try the top on your body as you go, so you can make adjustments to the coverage.
- To help keep corners neat, stitch markers can be used.
- Weave the ends in securely, particularly around the ties.
PITFALLS TO AVOID
- Tightening one square more than the other
- Not checking the fit before you finish
- Tying the ties too short
- Leaving loose ends untied
- Using wear-resistant yarn that stretches too much
IDEAS FOR CUSTOMIZATION
Make it bright with two or more colors for a granny square look. Add a simple border around each square, lengthen the ties, or add small beads or tassels to the ends. Or you can keep it all one solid color for a cleaner style.
FASHION INSPIRATION
Wear it as a swim cover up, a festival bralette or under an open shirt. It’s also cute with high-waisted shorts, a crochet skirt, or a lightweight beach cover-up.
DIRECTIONS FOR CARE
Hand wash in cold water. Don’t squeeze it tight. Reshape while damp and lay flat to dry, so that the squares and ties keep their shape.
TIME REQUIRED
This could take a few hours depending on your speed, yarn, size and stitch pattern.
Credit By: What About Yarn
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Ueswk0slAI
SUMMARY
This granny square bikini top is a fun summer crochet project with plenty of room for color and personality. Once you get the simple construction, it’s easy to adapt and make your own.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Can beginners make this bikini top?
Yes it is beginner friendly if you know chains, double crochet and slip stitch.
Can you make it bigger?
Yes, add more granny square rounds until you have the coverage you want.
What yarns do I use?
Select a cotton or cotton-blend yarn that is light-weight.
Can I use other colors?
Yes, granny squares are perfect for color mixing.
Can you tweak it?
Yes the ties do adjust the fit around the neck and back.