There’s something about a black-and-cream make that just looks expensive. This tank keeps things graphic and clean a deep black body broken up by crisp cream stripes at the bust and hem, with a lace-up back that turns a simple shape into something with a little attitude. It’s a forgiving make, too: straightforward stitches, two colors, and the stripes do all the visual work for you. If you like that laced-up detail, you’ll find a similar pull in this beginner corset top.
Crochet Tank Top In Two Colors
The whole thing is built on a dense, even fabric that holds its shape against the body no gaping, no fuss. Swapping your two colors at set rows is the only real “technique” here, which makes it a great pick if you’re just getting comfortable carrying a second shade. Prefer your two tone in a softer, more textured stripe? My two-color textured panel top takes the colorwork in a cozier direction. Keep your tension snug so the black stays sleek and the stripes sit sharp.
Materials
- Crochet hook suitable for your yarn
- Yarn in two colors
- Measuring tape
- Stitch markers
Yarn and hook note:
- Choose a yarn that holds structure well.
- Cotton or cotton blends work best for this design.
- Your hook should create a firm fabric without stiffness.
- If your fabric feels floppy, go down a hook size.
Stitch That Help You To Make Tank Top
Base Band
- The base band forms the foundation of the entire top. Its width determines how the garment sits around the body, so take your time here.
Instructions
- Start with a slip knot and chain until the length measures 80 cm, ending with an odd number of chains
- Chain 2 and work half double crochet in each chain across
- Chain 2 and continue working half double crochet in every stitch for each row
- Repeat rows until the band measures approximately 11.5 cm tall and 74 cm wide
- Fasten off yarn
Fit and tension guidance
- The height controls underbust coverage. If you prefer a deeper band, add more rows.
- Keep your edges straight by placing the final half double crochet into the very last stitch of each row. Missing edge stitches will shorten the band over time.
Bust Section
This section creates gentle shaping by decreasing at both edges to form a trapezoid shape that follows the bust naturally.
Instructions
- Measure and mark the center 35 cm section of the band
- Ensure equal stitches remain on both the left and right sides
- Join yarn at the start of the marked center section
- Chain 1, skip the first stitch, and work half double crochet across
- Perform a half double crochet decrease at the end of the row
- Repeat the same decrease at the beginning and end of each row
- Continue for a total of four rows
Shaping clarity
- The skipped stitch at the beginning plus the decrease at both ends gradually narrows the panel
- Place stitch markers at the decrease points to keep shaping symmetrical
- Do not rush these rows. Uneven decreases will affect how the top lays on the body
Decorative Borders Top and Bottom
The eyelet border adds visual interest and softens the structure of the top.
Top Border
- Attach the second color yarn to the top edge
- Work single crochet evenly across
- Work one row of half double crochet, chain 1, skip 1 stitch across the edge
- Repeat the same eyelet pattern for a second row
- Change yarn color and repeat the eyelet pattern for two additional rows
Bottom Border
- Attach the second color to the bottom edge and work one row of single crochet
- Change yarn color and work three rows of the eyelet pattern
Border tips
- Keep your chain spaces consistent to avoid wavy edges
- If the border begins to flare, reduce your hook size slightly for this section
Straps and Back Loops
The straps provide support, while the back loops allow for adjustable lacing.
Straps
- Attach yarn to the top corners of the bust section
- Work four double crochets across to form the strap width
- Continue working rows until the strap measures approximately 29 cm
- Secure the strap to the back band
Back Loops
- Along the back edges, work three single crochets followed by three chains repeatedly
- Create eight loops on each side for lacing
Construction note
- Make sure both straps are the same length before attaching. Count rows rather than relying only on measurement.
Finishing Edge
- Work single crochet around all raw edges
This step unifies the entire piece and prevents curling. Keep stitches relaxed and even.
Cord
Instructions
- Chain 300 stitches
- Work single crochet back along the entire chain
- Lace the cord through the back loops in a criss cross pattern
Cord tip
If your cord curls, switch to slip stitch instead of single crochet for a flatter finish.
Size Adjustments
- Small size: Reduce the bust section width by 3 cm
- Large size: Increase the bust section width by 3 cm and add an extra decrease row if needed
Sizing guidance
Because the back is adjustable, focus on getting the bust width correct first. The lacing will handle minor fit differences.
Yarn Substitution Guidance
- This pattern benefits from yarn that holds shape but is comfortable against the skin.
Best choices:
- Cotton
- Cotton blends
- Bamboo cotton blends
Avoid very stretchy yarns, as they can cause the bust section to lose shape over time. If using acrylic, keep tension firm and avoid oversized hooks.
If you change yarn weight:
- Thinner yarn may require additional rows for coverage
- Thicker yarn may reduce the number of rows needed for the base band height
Always measure, not count rows.
Common Troubleshooting
- Band feels too tight: Add length to the starting chain before continuing
- Bust section puckers: Check that decreases are placed consistently on both sides
- Borders wave: Use a smaller hook for decorative rows
- Straps stretch: Reinforce the final attachment with slip stitches or a second pass of single crochet
Final Notes
This top relies on careful measuring rather than complex stitches. Work slowly, check symmetry often, and try the piece on before attaching straps permanently. Small adjustments during construction lead to a much better final fit.
