When I sat down to design this summer tank, I had three goals in mind. First, I wanted those gorgeous shell stitch texture bands that catch the light. Second, I needed a coastal color palette that felt fresh without being predictable. Third, and this was the fun part, I wanted playful pompom trim that would actually stay put after washing.
I am SO pleased with how this turned out. The stripe sequence creates visual interest without overwhelming the eye. The lace divider rows give it that breezy summer feel. And those little crocheted pompom balls? They add just the right amount of whimsy.
If you have been wanting to try a wearable project but felt intimidated by garment construction, this is your sign. The shaping is straightforward, the pieces are identical, and you will finish with a top that looks far more complicated than it actually is.
About This Crochet Pattern
This tank top features alternating shell stitch bands in teal, mint, and sand, separated by delicate white lace rows. The construction is beginner-friendly for anyone comfortable with basic garment shaping. You will work two flat pieces, seam them together, then add the border and pompoms.
The finished bust measures 34 to 36 inches for the size Small/Medium as written. I have included notes for adjusting from XS through 2X/3X at the end of the pattern. The length from shoulder to hem sits at approximately 15 inches, not counting those adorable pompom balls dangling below.
Skill level: Intermediate. You should feel comfortable with shell stitches, working color changes, basic garment shaping, and crocheting small pieces in the round for the pompoms.
Time estimate: Plan for 20 to 30 hours depending on your experience level. This is a perfect project for a week of evening crochet sessions.
Ready to make a top that feels like ocean air?
Materials You Will Need
Yarn (DK weight, category 3):
- Color A (Teal): 250 yards
- Color B (Mint): 150 yards
- Color C (Sand/Tan): 100 yards
- Color D (White): 150 yards
Total yardage comes to approximately 650 yards.
Recommended yarn options:
- Paintbox Yarns Simply DK works beautifully here. Try Spearmint Green, Seafoam, Soft Caramel, and Paper White. This acrylic yarn gives excellent stitch definition and washes like a dream.
- Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton offers gorgeous drape for summer wear. Look for Turquoise, Aqua, Tan, and White.
- WeCrochet Dishie in Teal, Sea Foam, Almond, and Bare blocks beautifully and holds that lacework definition crisp.
Quick substitution tip: Any smooth DK weight yarn that achieves gauge will work. Avoid fuzzy or textured yarns since they will obscure your shell and lace stitch detail.
Hooks:
- US size G-6 (4.0 mm) for the main body
- US size F-5 (3.75 mm) for edging and pompom balls
Notions:
- Tapestry needle
- Scissors
- 4 stitch markers
- Rustproof pins for blocking
- Measuring tape
- Small amount of fiberfill or yarn scraps for stuffing pompoms
FYI, smooth DK yarn is what makes those shells and lace rows look so clean.
Gauge
In shell stitch pattern with G-6 hook, after blocking: 16 stitches and 10 rows = 4 inches.
In single crochet with G-6 hook: 18 stitches and 20 rows = 4 inches.
Please make a 6-inch swatch in the shell stitch pattern before starting. Block it and measure. This step matters for a wearable fit. Go up a hook size if your gauge is too tight. Go down if it is too loose.
Abbreviations and Stitch Definitions
Let me walk you through every abbreviation before we begin. I will define each term in plain English so nothing catches you off guard.
- ch = chain
- sl st = slip stitch
- sc = single crochet
- dc = double crochet
- sc2tog = single crochet two together (a decrease)
- sk = skip
- st(s) = stitch(es)
- sp = space
- ch-sp = chain space
- t-ch = turning chain
- rep = repeat
- rem = remaining
- RS = right side
- WS = wrong side
- yo = yarn over
Special Stitches
Shell Stitch
Work 5 double crochet stitches all into the same stitch or space. This creates a beautiful fan-shaped cluster.
- Identify the stitch or space where you need to place your shell.
- Work one double crochet into that spot.
- Work four more double crochet stitches into the exact same spot.
- You now have 5 dc grouped together forming one shell.
Lace Row
This creates the open mesh between your shell stitch bands.
- Single crochet into the first stitch of the row.
- Chain 5, skip 4 stitches, single crochet into the next stitch.
- Repeat the chain 5, skip 4, single crochet sequence across.
- On the following row, you will work shells or single crochets into those chain-5 spaces.
Crochet Pompom Ball
These adorable stuffed spheres are crocheted in the round. Use your F-5 hook.
Round 1: Make a magic ring, work 6 sc in ring. (6 sc)
Round 2: Work 2 sc in each stitch around. (12 sc)
Round 3: Work (sc in next stitch, 2 sc in next stitch) around. (18 sc)
Round 4: Work (sc in next 2 stitches, 2 sc in next stitch) around. (24 sc)
Round 5: Work (sc in next 2 stitches, sc2tog) around. (18 sc)
Round 6: Work (sc in next stitch, sc2tog) around. (12 sc)
Stuff lightly with yarn scraps or fiberfill now.
Round 7: Work sc2tog around. (6 sc)
Fasten off, leaving a 10-inch tail. Thread tail through remaining 6 stitches, pull tight to close, weave in end inside ball. Leave a separate 12-inch tail at the starting end for attaching to the hem later.
Important Pattern Notes
Before you begin, please read through these notes. They will save you confusion later.
- The top is worked flat in two identical pieces (front and back), then seamed at the sides and shoulders.
- For color changes, complete the last pull-through of the stitch before the new color begins using the new color. This creates a clean color transition.
- Turning chain rules: Chain 1 does NOT count as a stitch. Chain 3 COUNTS as the first double crochet throughout.
- The right side faces you throughout if you turn at the end of each row as directed.
- Foundation chain math: The pattern uses a multiple of 6, plus 2 for selvedge. For size adjustment, add or subtract 6 stitches per size (approximately 1.5 inches per repeat).
Stripe Sequence Overview
Work this sequence once for the front piece and once for the back piece.
- Section 1 (Hem Band): Color A, sc rows
- Section 2 (Shell Band 1): Color A, shell stitch
- Section 3 (Lace Divider): Color D, lace
- Section 4 (Shell Band 2): Color B, shell stitch
- Section 5 (Lace Divider): Color D, lace
- Section 6 (Shell Band 3): Color C, shell stitch
- Section 7 (Lace Divider): Color D, lace
- Section 8 (Shell Band 4): Color B, shell stitch
- Section 9 (Lace Divider): Color D, lace
- Section 10 (Shell Band 5): Color A, shell stitch
- Section 11 (Upper Body): Color A, sc rows
Instructions for Front Piece
Foundation and Hem Band
With G-6 hook and Color A, chain the foundation and work two rows of single crochet to create a solid hem band.
Shell Pattern Section
Alternate shell rows with lace dividers, changing colors according to the stripe sequence. Keep the shell centers aligned so the texture stays consistent across the piece.
Continue through the upper body single crochet section, then shape the armholes and straps with simple decreases and short rows.
Work the back piece identically. Seam the sides and shoulders, add a clean single crochet border around the neckline and armholes, then finish the hem with the crocheted pompom balls spaced evenly along the bottom edge.
Block the finished top so the shells open fully and the lace rows sit flat and airy.
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FAQ’s
Can I adjust the length?
Yes. Add or remove shell and lace sections before the upper body rows, or work extra single crochet rows for a longer torso.
Do the pompoms hold up in the wash?
When crocheted tightly and stuffed lightly, they stay secure. Weave the attachment tails thoroughly and the trim survives regular gentle washing.
Is the lace see-through?
It has a soft open look. Many wearers layer a simple camisole or bralette underneath for full coverage while still showing the texture.
How do I change sizes?
Add or subtract multiples of 6 stitches from the foundation chain. Each repeat adds roughly 1.5 inches to the width. Adjust the armhole and strap numbers proportionally.
What if my shells look uneven?
Keep consistent tension and always work into the center double crochet of the previous shell. Blocking helps even everything out.
Can beginners finish this?
If you know shell stitches, color changes, and basic seaming, yes. Take one section at a time and the construction stays straightforward.
Final Thought
There you have it—a breezy, textured tank that feels like a coastal vacation in yarn form. The shell bands catch the light, the lace rows keep it airy, and those little pompom balls add the perfect playful finish.
IMO, the color sequence is what makes this top special. Once the stripes start stacking, the whole piece comes alive. Take your time with the seams and the pompom placement, and enjoy every stitch.
When you finally put it on and feel that soft drape, you will know exactly why this project was worth the hours. Happy crocheting, friend—may your next summer outfit be handmade and full of ocean vibes!
