The Beach House Tee

The Beach House Tee by Colleen Webster

What Is Being Made

The Beach House Tee is a crocheted short-sleeve top designed for warm-weather wear. This intermediate-level crochet project is available in five sizes ranging from XS (28"-30" bust) to XL (44"-46" bust), with corresponding length measurements from 19" to 23" and armhole depths from 5.5" to 9.5". The garment offers versatility for various body types and can be customized to individual measurements.

Crochet Techniques and Construction

This pattern employs specialized crochet techniques to create its distinctive texture and structure. The primary construction method uses the bean stitch, a textured stitch that forms the foundation of the garment's visual appeal. The bean stitch is created by inserting the hook into a stitch, yarning over and pulling up a loop, then repeating the yarn over and insert process twice more before pulling through all six loops on the hook and closing with a chain stitch.

Additional structural techniques include the use of back bumps, which refers to working into the back loop only of stitches from the previous row—a method that creates dimensional texture and is demonstrated through pattern photos or available video tutorials. Corner shaping is achieved using a specialized corner technique that combines bean stitches with chain spaces to create structured edges and shaping at key points.

The pattern utilizes bean slings, which involve working into the chain-one space that closes the bean stitch from the previous row, allowing for seamless stitch progression and consistent fabric texture throughout the garment.

Stitches Used

• Bean Stitch: The primary textured stitch throughout the pattern, created with multiple yarn overs and loops
• Single Crochet (SC): Used for foundational and finishing work
• Chain Stitch (Ch): Used for spacing, shaping, and stitch closure
• Slip Stitch (Sl St): Used for joining and finishing edges

Materials and Specifications

The Beach House Tee is designed to be worked with Yarnspirations Caron Cotton Cakes, a worsted-weight yarn that provides structure and breathability ideal for a summer top. Yarn yardage requirements vary by size: XS requires approximately 700 yards, S requires approximately 800 yards, M requires approximately 950 yards, L requires approximately 1,050 yards, and XL requires approximately 1,200 yards.

Construction requires an H hook (5.0mm) and a yarn needle for weaving in ends. The pattern specifies a gauge of 7 beans by 12 rows measuring 4 inches, which is essential for achieving proper fit across all size options.

Skill Level and Suitability

Rated as an intermediate-level project, The Beach House Tee is suitable for crocheters with foundational skills who are ready to work with specialized stitches and shaping techniques. The bean stitch and related techniques require attention to detail and practice with multi-loop stitch construction, making this an excellent project for advancing beyond basic single crochet and double crochet patterns.