Let me introduce you to my latest design, the Tea Top. It is a modern, made to measure crochet top built from two simple T shaped panels and a soothing ripple stitch. I designed it with versatility in mind, so you can choose any sleeve length you like, from short sleeves to three quarter, long, or something perfectly in between. It is light, comfortable, great for experimenting with colour, and works with any yarn weight, which makes it an easy and wearable project for spring and summer. The kind of crochet you actually want to wear anywhere
If you love crochet pieces that fit your body and your style, the Tea Top is going to be such a fun make.
Why I Designed the Tea Top
I first had the idea for the Tea Top back in 2022, when a ripple stitch blanket popped up on my feed and the voices in my head screamed ‘we have a top for you. They were loud, and the idea was fully formed, so I had to follow it.
I wanted something for my own wardrobe, something simple and wearable, so I gathered the yarn I had bought for a dress that didn’t quite work out and started crocheting.
I didn’t begin with a full plan. I did my gauge, made a little sketch in my head, restarted twice (as usual), and slowly the first version came together. The 3/4 sleeve version was the original one, and fun fact: I only realised one of my panels had an extra repeat when I was putting them together. So I hoped for the best and just kept going and even sewed the panels with my brand‑new sewing machine, which felt very exciting at the time (and yes, it does work, and yes I did feel lazy).
That top ended up becoming one of my most‑worn pieces. I wore it out, to work, in spring, in summer, with skirts, jeans, and fancier trousers. It was the kind of make that quietly slips into your wardrobe and stays.
It took me three years to finally sit down and write the pattern, and by then I knew it would be a very versatile design. The second time around, I leaned into a more relaxed T‑shirt look instead of the fitted “look at my sleeves” vibe of the first version. Also wanted to make sure that one extra repeat was not a must, and it does still work without it.
Seeing my testers working with different yarns was such a surprise, it transforms so easily, and I’m convinced it could even work for winter with the right fibre.
One of my favourite things about this pattern is how soothing the stitch repeat is. Once you get the rhythm, it flows by. The increases and decreases are easy to spot, so you don’t need to keep count, and there isn’t much sewing to do on the sleeves. It’s the kind of project you can pick up in the evening and just enjoy while watching tv.
More than anything, I wanted this to be a relaxed and creative make. A pattern you can play with: colours, length, sleeve style, fit. Shape into something that feels like you. Long or cropped, short sleeve or long, loose or fitted. The Tea Top adapts to your style, your season, your wardrobe.
Why You’ll Love This Crochet Top
- A soothing ripple stitch that’s relaxing and easy to follow
- Simple, approachable construction
- Made to measure, so the fit is exactly how you like it
- Easy to customise (colours, length, sleeves, fit)
- Works beautifully with different fibres and seasons
- A wearable, everyday crochet piece that you can wear anywhere
If you’re looking for a piece that you can make your own, that works across seasons, and that you’ll reach for again and again, this is the one. I’m so excited to share it with you, and I hope it becomes a favourite in your handmade collection.
Tea Top Crochet Pattern Materials List
- Yarn of your choice
- Crochet hook compatible with yarn
- Tapestry needle
- Scissors
- Measuring tape
- Stitch markers (optional)
Because the Tea Top is made to measure and can be customised in so many ways (length, sleeves, fit, yarn weight), I’m not providing specific yardage estimates. The amount of yarn you’ll need depends entirely on the choices you make for your version. This is a great project to use what you already have in your stash, mix colours, combine leftovers, or finally use that yarn you’ve been saving. I used under 280 g for each top when working with Hobbii 8/4 cotton, both can be considered a size S.
How the Testers Made It Their Own
Get Your Copy Now!
Click below to grab your pattern and start start stitching your TeaTop today:
Make your Tea Top in your favourite yarn, your perfect fit, and your ideal length and watch it become one of those pieces you reach for without thinking. When you finish, share your photos with #TeaTop. I can’t wait to see your colours, your sleeves, your style.
Thank you for supporting my crochet designs. Creating the Tea Top has been such a joy, and I hope you love making it as much as I loved bringing it to life.
How will you style your Tea Top this season? Tell me in the comments below.
