Cover-up trades the diamond or honeycomb grids used elsewhere on the site for a tighter, vertical ladder pattern narrow open columns running top to bottom instead of a diagonal lattice. It’s cut with dropped short sleeves and a loose, knee-length body, so it goes on and off easily with no fitted shaping to worry about. If you’d rather have the wider, more dramatic honeycomb look instead, the plus-size mesh dress uses a much more open lattice in a similar loose fit.
Crochet Beach Wear For Plus Size
Because the mesh columns run consistently in one direction, tension is easier to keep even than on a diagonal grid just repeat the same open-then-solid rhythm row after row. For a coverup with sleeves and a cinched waist instead of this loose, straight cut, the lace coverup kimono adds more shape to the silhouette.
Materials
- Cotton yarn suitable for summer garments
- 5 mm crochet hook or size appropriate for your yarn
- Measuring tape
- Scissors
- Stitch markers or bobby pins
Stitch Guide for This Pattern
Measurement and Foundation
This pattern starts with body measurements instead of a fixed stitch count, which allows the fabric to drape comfortably without clinging.
- Measure the widest part of your body, usually the hips.
- Add approximately 6 inches for ease. This extra space allows the mesh fabric to move and prevents the top from feeling tight.
- Divide the total measurement by two to determine the width of each panel.
- Create a foundation chain to match the calculated width. Try to keep the chain relaxed so the bottom edge does not pull in.
- Make two identical panels for the front and back.
Why this matters: The mesh stitch has vertical stretch but limited horizontal stretch. Adding ease at the measurement stage ensures the finished top sits naturally instead of riding up.
Row One Setting the Pattern
This first row establishes the repeating structure that continues throughout the body.
- Count four chains from the hook and work a treble crochet into the fifth chain.
- Chain four, skip four chains, and work a treble crochet into the next chain.
- Work one treble crochet into each of the next three stitches to form a block of four treble crochets.
- Repeat the sequence of chain four, skip four stitches, and four treble crochets across the row.
- End the row evenly, finishing with two treble crochets at each side for symmetry.
- Never read a crochet pattern before? No problem! The video tutorial below is perfect for beginners, or give the written pattern below a try!
Stitch clarity:
The pattern alternates between open chain spaces and solid treble crochet blocks. Keeping these blocks consistent in size is what gives the fabric its clean grid look.
Body Rows
Once the pattern is established, the body grows quickly and predictably.
- Chain four and turn to begin the next row.
- Work a treble crochet into the next treble crochet stitch.
- Chain four to skip the open mesh space from the previous row.
- Work treble crochets into the next block of treble crochets.
- Continue repeating this pattern until the panel reaches the desired length.
Length guidance:
- For a cropped fit, stop near the waist.
- For a longer tunic-style top, continue until it reaches mid-hip or below.
- Because both panels are identical, always measure length with the fabric relaxed and flat.
Neckline Opening
The neckline is created by bridging chains rather than cutting or shaping fabric.
- Fold the panel and mark the center stitches for the neckline opening.
- Work the mesh pattern until reaching the first marker.
- Chain the same number of stitches as the marked neckline width to bridge the opening.
- Rejoin the pattern on the opposite side and complete the row.
Why this works:
- The chain bridge replaces stitches without disrupting the mesh rhythm, keeping the neckline clean and structurally stable.
Assembly and Finishing
- Place the front and back panels together with right sides facing.
- Use single crochet stitches to seam the sides.
- Leave the top portion open for armholes.
- Single crochet evenly around the neckline and sleeves for a clean finish.
- Work multiple single crochets into large mesh spaces and one single crochet into smaller gaps.
- Weave in all loose ends securely.
Finishing notes:
Adding extra single crochets in larger mesh spaces prevents the edges from stretching out over time and gives the garment a polished look.
Fit and Sizing Guidance
- This design has an intentionally relaxed fit.
- If you prefer a closer fit, reduce the added ease slightly when measuring.
- For broader shoulders or a wider neckline, increase the number of chains used to bridge the neckline opening.
Beginner Notes
- Use stitch markers generously when marking the neckline center.
- Count treble crochet blocks instead of stitches if you lose track of the pattern.
- Practice keeping chain-four spaces consistent in size for even drape.
Troubleshooting
- Fabric feels too stiff: Try a larger hook to open the mesh.
- Edges look uneven: Check that each row begins and ends with the same treble crochet structure.
- Neckline pulling: Add one or two extra chains when bridging the opening.
Final Thoughts
- This mesh panel construction is forgiving, adaptable, and ideal for warm-weather garments.
- Once you understand the rhythm of blocks and spaces, the pattern becomes intuitive, making it easy to customize while maintaining a balanced, breathable fabric.
