Basic bikini

Basic Bikini Crochet Pattern

What is Being Made

The Basic Bikini is a two-piece swimwear project designed by Marzia G. and published by Yarnlosophy. This crochet pattern creates a complete bikini set consisting of a fitted top with two cups and a coordinating bottom piece. The design challenges the perception that crochet is exclusively a cold-weather craft, offering a lightweight, wearable garment suitable for beach and warm-weather wear. The pattern is available in three size options to accommodate different body measurements.

Techniques and Construction

This beginner-level crochet project uses fundamental techniques that make it accessible to newer crafters while still producing a polished finished garment. The bikini top is constructed by creating individual cups that are worked in rows, building up the necessary depth and shaping. The pattern employs a straightforward row-by-row construction method, with specific row counts provided for each size to achieve proper fit and coverage. The bottom piece follows similar construction principles, allowing for consistent technique application throughout the entire project.

Stitches Used

The Basic Bikini pattern utilizes three essential crochet stitches:

• Chains (ch) — used to create the foundation and turning chains throughout the pattern
• Single Crochet (sc) — the primary stitch forming the body of both the top and bottom pieces, creating a dense, structured fabric
• Slip Stitch (ss) — used for joining and finishing edges

Materials and Yarn Requirements

This project requires a 3 mm crochet hook and fine yarn compatible with that hook size. The yardage needed varies by size: the sample bikini shown in the pattern (medium top and small bottom) required approximately 80 grams of yarn. The designer used white yarn for the photographed version, though any color can be substituted based on personal preference. Crocheters should check their gauge before beginning to ensure proper sizing, as gauge affects the finished dimensions of each piece.

Sizing Options

The pattern provides three distinct sizes to ensure proper fit:

• Small — the base size for which the pattern is written
• Medium — adjustments provided in brackets throughout the pattern
• Large — additional sizing options included for larger measurements

For the medium size bikini top, the initial chain foundation measures 15 cm in length, with specific row counts (16 rows for the sample) provided to achieve 6–8 cm of height depending on size.

Pattern Structure

The bikini top pattern begins with a foundation chain of 30 stitches for small, 34 for medium, or 38 for large. The first cup is worked in single crochet rows with a turning chain, repeated until the desired depth is reached. The pattern then transitions to the second cup and continues with construction for the straps and finishing details. The bottom piece follows a similar modular approach, allowing crafters to work through each section methodically.