Pink and white granny flower motifs for the cups, a solid panel bottom with picot trim — this set leans into the contrast between the decorative top and the clean, unfussy bottom construction. The flower motifs are worked in rounds from the center out, so the cup shaping happens naturally as you go. If you want another set that pairs motif-based cups with adjustable ties, the free crochet flower bikini top pattern uses a different cup motif style that’s worth comparing.
Crochet Bikinis Set
The bottom works up quickly in rows with the picot edging added as a finishing step no complex shaping needed, just consistent tension and the tie sides handle the fit adjustment. For a bottom-only pattern to mix and match with other tops, the free crochet bikinis pattern with elastic waist and leg edging is a solid standalone option.
Bikini Top Construction Overview
- The top is made from two identical triangular cups.
- Each cup starts small at the center and expands outward in rounds.
The shaping comes from:
- Cluster stitches in the center for structure
- Chain spaces that act as anchor points for shell and triangle shaping
- Taller stitches at the outer edge to create the peak of the triangle
- Gradual edge flattening so the cups sit smoothly on the body
Once both triangles are complete, they are joined at the center and finished with long chains for adjustable ties.
Skills Needed for This Crochet Pattern
Bikini Top Pattern
- Start with a magic ring
- Chain 3 and make 1 double crochet into the ring
- Chain 2 and work 2 double crochet together
- Repeat the chain 2 and 2 double crochet together sequence until there are 6 clusters
- Pull the ring tight and slip stitch to close
Why this matters: This round creates a firm, slightly raised center. The chain-2 spaces between clusters are intentional. They become the anchor points for all later shaping. Keeping these spaces even is more important than stitch tightness.
Color Change and First Expansion Round
- In a chain 2 space, chain 3, make 1 double crochet, chain 2, then 2 double crochet in the same space
- Repeat this pattern in every chain 2 space around
- Slip stitch to close the round
- 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: Each chain-2 space now holds a small shell. This evenly increases the cup without distorting the circle. Make sure all shells are identical in height to prevent twisting later.
Shell Expansion Round
- Slip stitch into the next chain 2 space
- Chain 3 and work 6 double crochet in the same space
- Work 7 double crochet in every chain 2 space around
- Slip stitch to close
Common confusion: The first space has 6 double crochet because the starting chain counts as one stitch. Every space still ends up with 7 total stitches. This keeps the circle balanced.
Edge Shaping and Triangle Formation
- Change yarn color
- Single crochet in each of the 7 double crochet stitches
- Between shell sections, work a long single crochet by inserting the hook into the space between earlier clusters
- In a long single crochet stitch, work 2 treble crochet, chain 2, then 2 treble crochet to form the triangle corner
- Continue shaping the sides using half double crochet, double crochet, and single crochet to flatten the edges
Why the stitch heights change: Tall stitches create the peak of the triangle. Shorter stitches along the sides prevent curling and help the cup lie flat against the body. This section is where the cup truly becomes a triangle, not just a circle with edges.
Assembly
- Make two identical triangle pieces
- Join the pieces with single crochet
- Create long chains of 60 stitches for neck and back ties
Joining note: Joining with single crochet keeps the center flexible but secure. Avoid pulling too tight here or the cups will tilt inward.
Bikini Bottom Construction Overview
The bottom is worked as a flat shaped panel, then finished with ties.
The shaping mimics the body:
- Early decreases form the front curve
- A straight section creates comfortable crotch coverage
- Gradual increases shape the back
Bikini Bottom Pattern
- Chain 45 to start the foundation
- Work double crochet in each stitch across for two rows
Purpose: These first rows stabilize the width before shaping begins.
- Decrease one stitch at the beginning and end of each row for the next ten rows
- Decrease two stitches at the beginning and end of each row for the following two rows
- Return to decreasing one stitch at each end for two rows
Shaping clarity: This stepped decrease creates a smooth curve rather than a sharp angle. Count carefully at the row ends. Missing a decrease will throw off symmetry later.
- Work evenly without increases or decreases for the crotch section
Fit note: This section determines comfort. If you prefer more coverage, this is the safest place to add length without affecting shape.
- Increase one stitch at the beginning and end of each row until the piece reaches approximately 18 cm in height
Why increases return: These increases form the back coverage. The gradual rate prevents a boxy fit.
- Single crochet evenly around the entire edge
- At each of the four corners, create chains of 60 stitches to form adjustable side ties
Finishing logic: The single crochet edge stabilizes the fabric and prevents stretching at the ties. Long chains allow the bottom to adjust across multiple sizes.
Fit and Sizing Guidance
- This set is adjustable, not fixed-size
- Cup size depends on how tightly or loosely you work the shell rounds
- Tie length allows for flexible neck, back, and hip fit
- For more coverage, continue shell rounds before edge shaping on the top or add length to the crotch section on the bottom
Beginner Notes
- Practice the magic ring before starting if it feels unfamiliar
- Place stitch markers in chain-2 spaces during early rounds
- Count clusters and shells at the end of each round
- Block lightly if edges curl while working
Troubleshooting
- Cup curling inward – Loosen tension on shell rounds– Check that each chain-2 space has the same stitch count
- Triangle peak looks uneven– Confirm treble stitches are worked into the long single crochet stitch, not the space
- Bottom feels tight at hips– Add one or two rows to the even crotch section before increasing
Finishing Notes
- Weave in ends securely, especially where color changes occur
- Stretch ties gently before wearing to test durability
- Avoid heavy blocking; light steam or gentle shaping is enough
