About This Caron Crochet Short Sleeved Top Pattern
This pattern creates a relaxed short-sleeved crochet top worked in a simple granny-stripe pattern using two contrasting colors. It includes instructions for multiple sizes (XS/S to 4/5XL) with shaping for armholes and shoulders. The top is constructed flat with minimal seaming and finished with a neat single crochet neck edging.
You will work alternating 2-row color stripes to build the body and sleeves, following exact stitch counts and measurements. The pattern uses basic stitches—chain, single crochet and double crochet—making it accessible and quick to stitch up.
Why You'll Love This Caron Crochet Short Sleeved Top Pattern
I absolutely love this pattern because the granny-stripe texture gives a classic handmade look while staying modern and wearable. I enjoy how the color transitions in Caron Skinny Cakes create a vibrant, variegated effect without having to change yarn constantly. The shaping for armholes and shoulders is straightforward, which means I can make a polished garment without complicated seaming. It is easy to customize by adjusting length or colors, so I often make several versions to match different outfits.
Switch Things Up
I love to customize this pattern by switching the two contrast colors for a bolder look; try a neutral main color with a bright accent for modern contrast.
To make the top longer, I simply continue the Granny Stripe pattern until the piece reaches my desired torso length before shaping the armholes.
Want a boxier or more fitted silhouette? I change the starting chain length in multiples that preserve the stitch repeat and adjust the finished chest accordingly.
I often substitute a solid worsted weight yarn for a denser, more classic look; remember to swatch and adjust hook size to match gauge if you change yarn weight.
For a delicate summer version, I use a lighter DK-weight yarn and a smaller hook to create a softer, drapier fabric and adjust length as needed.
I sometimes add small surface embroidery or an embroidered neckline to personalize the top and add a handmade signature detail.
Try making the sleeves longer or shorter by adding or subtracting pattern rows; the sleeve cap is simple to adjust because it sews into a square armhole.
If I want a rounded neckline instead of the slight boat-neck, I modify the shoulder shaping and pick up more stitches evenly across the neck before working the edging.
Swap colors every single row for a candy-stripe effect, or change colors every two rows as written for the classic Granny Stripe balance.
I also like to make matching accessories, such as a headband or small bag, using the same Granny Stripe pattern to create a coordinated set.
Common Mistakes & How to Fix Them
✗ Skipping the exact starting chain count for your chosen size will change the garment width; recount your foundation chain and compare to the pattern numbers before continuing.
✗ Not carrying contrast yarn loosely when not in use causes tension issues and puckering; carry the yarn up the side loosely to maintain even tension and flat stripes.
✗ Forgetting to drop and join colors at the correct rows will misalign the Granny Stripe pattern; follow the color change points exactly and join the next color with a slip stitch as instructed.
✗ Neglecting to measure gauge will produce a differently sized top; make the gauge swatch of 15 sc and 16 rows and adjust hook size as needed to match the given gauge.
✗ Failing to leave shoulder stitches unworked when shaping armholes will distort the neck and armhole shaping; carefully follow the leave rem sts unworked directions and check counts after shaping.
