Mesh Shorts

Mesh Shorts by SeyhallCrochetDesign

Project Overview

The Mesh Shorts are a downloadable crochet pattern designed by independent designer SeyhallCrochetDesign. This intermediate-level project creates a lightweight, breathable pair of shorts featuring an open mesh construction ideal for warm weather wear. The pattern is available in multiple size ranges to accommodate various body measurements, from 26 inches to 46 inches in waist circumference.

What Is Being Made

These are wearable crochet shorts with a fitted waistband and an open mesh body. The shorts are designed with a stretchy construction that allows them to fit across a range of sizes within each size category. The pattern includes options for a striped version, allowing crafters to create visual interest through color blocking. An elastic waistband is incorporated for comfort and secure fit.

Sizing and Fit

The pattern provides five distinct size ranges:

• 26–28–30 inches (66–71–76 cm)
• 30–32–34 inches (76–81–86 cm)
• 34–36–38 inches (86–91–97 cm)
• 38–40–42 inches (97–102–107 cm)
• 42–44–46 inches (107–112–117 cm)

Due to the inherent stretch of crochet fabric, each size range accommodates three different measurements. The pattern uses color coding to guide crafters through their chosen size, with instructions for adjusting the elastic waistband as needed.

Crochet Techniques and Stitches

The Mesh Shorts employ fundamental crochet techniques suitable for intermediate-level crafters. The primary stitches used include:

• Double Crochet (dc) – forms the main fabric structure
• Single Crochet (sc) – used in alternating rows to create texture and definition
• Chain (ch) – creates foundation and turning chains; ch 3 and ch 2 turns count as stitches, while ch 1 turns do not
• Slip Stitch (sl st) – joins rounds and secures stitches
• Decreases (dc2tog and dc3tog) – used for shaping the garment
• Yarn Over (yo) – fundamental technique for all stitches

The pattern uses alternating rows of double crochet and single crochet to create the characteristic mesh appearance. This stitch combination produces an open, airy fabric with visual rhythm while maintaining structural integrity.

Materials and Equipment

Yarn: The pattern calls for 4-ply cotton yarn, a lightweight fiber ideal for summer garments. The total yardage required is approximately 1,360 meters (1,488 yards), achieved through eight 50-gram balls of 4-ply cotton, each containing 170 meters (186 yards).

For the Striped Version: The pattern specifies Paintbox Yarns Cotton 4 Ply in Granite Grey (six 50-gram balls) combined with Patons 100% Cotton 4 Ply in Taupe (one 100-gram ball) and Jade (one 100-gram ball). This color combination creates visual contrast while maintaining the lightweight, breathable quality of the finished shorts.

Equipment Required:

• 3mm crochet hook – appropriately sized for 4-ply yarn
• Stitch markers – essential for tracking pattern repeats and shaping points
• Large eye needle – for weaving in yarn ends and seaming if necessary
• 30mm elastic – cut to fit the wearer's waist measurement for a secure, comfortable waistband

Tension and Gauge

The pattern specifies a tension of 23 double crochets by 9 rows of alternating double crochet and single crochet pairs, measuring 10 centimeters by 10 centimeters (approximately 4 inches by 4 inches). Achieving the correct gauge is essential for proper fit, particularly given the range of sizes the pattern accommodates. Crafters should work a gauge swatch before beginning the project to ensure their tension matches the pattern specifications.

Difficulty Level

Classified as an intermediate project, the Mesh Shorts require familiarity with basic crochet stitches and the ability to follow a