Nettie's Super Simple Cover Up – Breezy Crochet Beach Tunic Pattern

There's nothing quite like slipping on a light, airy crochet cover-up after a swim. This Nettie's Super Simple Cover Up is the perfect blend of effortless style and beginner-friendly technique. Using only basic double crochet stitches worked in a relaxed, boxy silhouette, this tunic slips right over your swimsuit and instantly gives you that sun-kissed, bohemian Mediterranean vibe. Whether you're lounging on the sand or strolling along the boardwalk, this breezy beach tunic is your new summer staple.

Best of all? The pattern is incredibly forgiving. It's worked in one piece from the bottom up, then split for the front and back panels. You can easily adjust the length by adding or removing rows, making it a truly customizable project. Let's dive in and create your new favorite beach companion.

Materials Needed

Before you begin, gather these simple supplies:

• Yarn: Worsted weight cotton or cotton-blend yarn (e.g., Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton) – approximately 600-800 yards. The sample shown uses a warm terracotta orange, but any color that makes you happy will work beautifully.
• Hook: US Size H/8 (5.0 mm) crochet hook
• Gauge: 14 dc x 8 rows = 4 inches (10 cm) in double crochet. Gauge is important for fit, but this pattern is very forgiving – don't stress too much!
• Extras: Yarn needle for weaving in ends, scissors, and a tape measure.

Sizes & Measurements

This pattern is written for two sizes:

• S/M: Finished chest 36 inches, Length 28 inches
• M/L: Finished chest 42 inches, Length 30 inches

Instructions will show S/M (M/L) throughout.

Stitches & Abbreviations

• ch = chain
• dc = double crochet
• sc = single crochet
• sl st = slip stitch
• sk = skip
• sp = space

Step-by-Step Instructions

Notes Before You Start

• The body is worked in the round from the bottom up, then split for the front and back panels.
• The pattern is very forgiving – adjust length by adding or removing rows.
• Chain 3 at the beginning of each round/row counts as your first double crochet.

BODY (Worked in the Round)

Step 1: Chain 120 (140) loosely. Join with a slip stitch to form a ring, being very careful not to twist your chain.

Step 2 – Round 1: Chain 3 (counts as first dc). Work 1 dc in each chain around. Join with a slip stitch to the top of the beginning chain-3. You should have 120 (140) double crochet stitches.

Step 3 – Rounds 2-20 (22): Chain 3. Work 1 dc in each dc around. Join with a slip stitch to the top of the chain-3. Repeat this round until your piece measures 12 (13) inches from the starting edge. This creates the main tube of your tunic.

Split for Front and Back

Step 4 – Row 1 (Front Panel): Chain 3. Work 1 dc in the next 59 (69) dc. Turn your work. You now have 60 (70) dc for the front panel. Leave the remaining stitches unworked – these will become the back.

Step 5 – Rows 2-12 (Front Panel): Chain 3. Work 1 dc in each dc across. Turn. Repeat this row until you have completed 12 rows total for the front panel. Fasten off and set aside.

Step 6 – Back Panel: Attach your yarn to the first unworked stitch of the back panel (the stitch right after where your front panel ended). Repeat Rows 1-12 exactly as you did for the front panel. Do not fasten off at the end – you'll continue directly into the straps.

Straps (Make 2)

Step 7 – Right Strap: From the top right corner of the front panel (the side closest to you), chain 30 (32) stitches. Slip stitch to the corresponding corner of the back panel. Fasten off. This creates your first shoulder strap.

Step 8 – Left Strap: Repeat Step 7 for the left side, attaching yarn to the top left corner of the front panel, chaining 30 (32), and slip stitching to the back panel corner. Fasten off.

Optional: For a more secure and polished fit, work a row of single crochet along each strap. Simply attach yarn at one end, work 1 sc in each chain across, and fasten off.

Finishing Touches

Step 9 – Bottom Edging: Attach yarn to any bottom corner of your tunic. Work single crochet evenly around the entire bottom edge, working 2 sc in each dc row end. Join with a slip stitch to the first sc. Fasten off. This neat border gives your tunic a clean, finished look.

Step 10 – Neckline Edging: Attach yarn to one shoulder seam. Work single crochet evenly around the entire neckline (front and back), join with a slip stitch, and fasten off. This helps the neckline lay flat and prevents stretching.

Step 11 – Weave in All Ends: Use your yarn needle to weave in all loose ends securely. Trim any excess yarn.

Step 12 – Blocking: Lightly block your tunic to open up the stitches and even out the fabric. Simply lay it flat, mist with water, and gently shape it to the correct measurements. Allow to dry completely.

Your Breezy Beach Tunic Awaits

And there you have it – a beautiful, breezy crochet beach tunic that's as fun to make as it is to wear. The simple double crochet stitch creates a subtle vertical ribbing that drapes beautifully, while the wide boat neckline and tie straps give it that relaxed, bohemian charm. The slightly sheer, airy fabric is perfect for layering over your favorite swimsuit.

This pattern is truly beginner-friendly, but the result looks anything but basic. Whether you're making it for yourself or as a handmade gift, this cover-up is sure to become a summer favorite. So grab your hook, pick your favorite cotton yarn, and get ready to create your new go-to beach essential. Happy crocheting!