Wren Rattan Crochet Top – FREE Pattern
There is something deeply satisfying about making your own clothing, especially when the finished piece looks like it could have come straight from a boutique shelf. The Wren Rattan Crochet Top is exactly that kind of project — a breezy, textured summer top that works up beautifully and earns compliments every single time you wear it. Whether you are a seasoned crocheter looking for your next wearable or an intermediate maker ready to try garment construction for the first time, this pattern has everything you need to create a top you will reach for all season long.
In this post, I am sharing the complete free pattern for the Wren Rattan Crochet Top, along with tips on yarn selection, sizing, fit adjustments, and finishing details that will help you get the best possible result. Let’s dive in.
What Makes the Wren Rattan Top Special
The name says it all. The Wren Rattan Crochet Top is named for two things: the sweet, understated charm of a wren — small but striking — and the visual texture of rattan weave that defines the stitch pattern. When you look at this top, you see an intricate, woven-looking fabric that has incredible depth and dimension, but the stitches themselves are approachable and rhythmic once you get going.
This top is worked flat in two panels — a front and a back — and seamed at the sides and shoulders. The straps are finished with a simple single crochet edge that keeps everything neat and frames the neckline beautifully. The body length hits just at or slightly below the natural waist, making it perfect for pairing with high-waisted skirts, linen trousers, or your favorite denim shorts.
The stitch pattern creates a fabric that has a slight drape without being too flimsy, and the open weave means the top breathes in warm weather. This is not a stiff, structured piece — it moves with you, which is part of what makes it so wearable.
Materials You Will Need
Before you cast on — or in this case, chain up — let’s talk supplies. Getting the right materials makes a significant difference in how your finished top looks and feels.
Yarn: You will want a smooth, lightweight yarn in a natural fiber or natural fiber blend for the best drape and breathability. Cotton, linen, bamboo, or a cotton-linen blend all work wonderfully here. Look for a DK weight or light worsted yarn. Avoid anything too fuzzy or textured, because the stitch pattern is the star of this show and you want it to read clearly. For a size medium top, plan on approximately 600–700 yards.
Some excellent yarn choices for this pattern include Paintbox Yarns Cotton DK, Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton, Drops Safran, or any similar smooth, plant-based yarn in the DK weight range. If you prefer a more luxurious option, a bamboo-cotton blend will give you incredible drape and a subtle sheen that makes the rattan stitch look even more polished.
Hook: US size E/3.5mm or F/3.75mm crochet hook. This pattern uses the smaller end of the hook range for cotton so that the fabric has body without being stiff. Always go with whatever hook gives you the correct gauge.
Notions: Stitch markers, a tapestry needle for weaving in ends, scissors, and a measuring tape. You may also want blocking mats and pins if you plan to block your finished top, which is highly recommended for garments made in plant-based fibers.
Gauge
Gauge is not optional when making garments. I know it feels tedious, but taking the time to swatch will save you from making a top that does not fit.
Gauge: 18 stitches and 20 rows = 4 inches in the rattan stitch pattern, after blocking.
To check your gauge, work a swatch of at least 6 inches square in the rattan stitch pattern, wash and block it the same way you plan to treat the finished garment, and then measure. If your swatch is too small (your stitches are too tight), go up a hook size. If your swatch is too large (your stitches are too loose), go down a hook size.
Sizing and Finished Measurements
This pattern is written for sizes XS through 3XL. The top is designed with approximately 2–4 inches of positive ease, meaning it will be slightly larger than your actual measurements to allow for comfortable movement and that relaxed, breezy fit that suits this style.
To choose your size, measure your full bust and compare it to the finished garment measurements below. If you are between sizes, size up.
Finished bust measurements:
XS: 32 inches
S: 36 inches
M: 40 inches
L: 44 inches
XL: 48 inches
2XL: 52 inches
3XL: 56 inches
Body length (from underarm to bottom edge): approximately 12 inches for all sizes. You can easily add or remove rows to adjust this length to your preference before beginning the armhole shaping, which I will explain in the pattern notes.
Stitch Glossary
Here are the abbreviations and stitches used in this pattern:
ch – chain
sl st – slip stitch
sc – single crochet
hdc – half double crochet
dc – double crochet
sk – skip
sp – space
RS – right side
WS – wrong side
rep – repeat
beg – beginning
t-ch – turning chain
Rattan Stitch (worked over a multiple of 3 stitches + 2):
Row 1 (RS): Ch 1, sc in first st, sk 1 st, (hdc, dc) in next st, sk 1 st, sc in next st; rep from to end, turn.
Row 2 (WS): Ch 2, (hdc, dc) in first sc, sc in next hdc, sk dc, (hdc, dc) in next sc; rep from to last hdc-dc pair, sc in last sc, turn.
Row 3 (RS): Ch 1, sc in first st, sk 1 st, (hdc, dc) in next sc, sk dc, sc in next st; rep from to end, turn.
Rows 2 and 3 form the pattern repeat.
Take your time reading through the stitch instructions a couple of times before you begin. Once you have worked two or three repeats, the stitch pattern becomes very intuitive and you will not need to reference the instructions as often.
Pattern Notes
This top is worked flat in two identical pieces (front and back) that are seamed together. Some crocheters prefer to adjust the neckline on the front panel to be slightly lower than the back — I will note where you can do this if you want a scooped front neckline.
The armhole shaping is created with simple decreases worked at each end of the row. The straps are narrow bands worked along the top of each panel and seamed or joined at the shoulders.
If you want to lengthen or shorten the body, do so before beginning the armhole shaping section. Each row adds approximately 0.2 inches of length, so for every inch you want to add, work approximately 5 additional rows in pattern.
All foundation chains are worked loosely. If you tend to chain tightly, go up one hook size for the foundation chain only.
The Free Pattern
Front and Back Panel (Make Two)
Foundation: Loosely chain the following number of stitches for your size:
XS: 74 ch / S: 86 ch / M: 98 ch / L: 110 ch / XL: 122 ch / 2XL: 134 ch / 3XL: 146 ch
Row 1 (RS): Sc in second ch from hook, sk 1 ch, (hdc, dc) in next ch, sk 1 ch, sc in next ch; rep from across, turn. You should have 73 (85, 97, 109, 121, 133, 145) stitches.
Rows 2–60 (or to desired length): Work in rattan stitch pattern as established, repeating Rows 2 and 3 of the stitch pattern until piece measures approximately 12 inches from the foundation chain (or your preferred body length), ending with a WS row. Do not fasten off.
Armhole Shaping
Row 1 (RS): Sl st across first 7 (7, 9, 9, 11, 11, 13) stitches, ch 1, sc in same st, continue in rattan stitch pattern to last 7 (7, 9, 9, 11, 11, 13) stitches, turn, leaving remaining stitches unworked. You have now established the armhole opening on each side.
Rows 2–4: Work in pattern across, decreasing 1 stitch at each end of each row as follows: at the beginning of the row, work the first two stitches together; at the end of the row, work the last two stitches together. Continue in rattan stitch pattern across remaining stitches.
After armhole shaping, you should have approximately 55 (67, 75, 87, 95, 107, 115) stitches remaining, depending on your size.
Rows 5 onward: Continue in rattan stitch pattern without further decreasing until the armhole depth measures approximately 7 (7, 7.5, 7.5, 8, 8, 8.5) inches, ending with a WS row.
Neckline Shaping
At this point, you will divide the work for the straps. Decide how wide you want your straps — a width of 12–15 stitches creates a flattering strap for most sizes.
Left strap: Work in pattern across the first 12 (13, 14, 15, 15, 16, 17) stitches. Turn and continue working these stitches only in rattan stitch pattern for approximately 10–12 additional rows (or until the strap reaches the shoulder when the top is held up to your body). Fasten off.
Neckline: Skip the center stitches (leaving them unworked for the neckline opening).
Right strap: Join yarn to the last 12 (13, 14, 15, 15, 16, 17) stitches on the right side. Work in rattan stitch pattern for the same number of rows as the left strap. Fasten off.
For a scooped front neckline: when you reach the neckline shaping on the front panel only, work 2–3 additional rows of decreases at the neckline edge before beginning the flat strap section. This creates a gentle curve that adds a pretty detail to the front.
Finishing
Seaming
Lay your two panels flat with right sides together. Using a tapestry needle and a length of your project yarn, seam the side edges together using a mattress stitch or whip stitch, working from the bottom edge up to the armhole opening. Leave the armhole edges open on each side. Seam the shoulders by joining the right strap of the front panel to the right strap of the back panel, and the left strap of the front panel to the left strap of the back panel.
Edging
Turn the top right side out. Join yarn at any point along one armhole opening. Work a single round of sc evenly around the armhole, working approximately 1 sc per stitch and 1 sc per row end, ending with a sl st to join. Fasten off. Repeat for the second armhole.
Work the same single round of sc around the neckline opening, joining at one strap and working continuously around the neckline and up and around both straps. This edging ties the whole garment together and gives it a clean, finished look.
Optionally, you can work a second round of sc along the bottom hem of the top for a more polished edge, though the foundation chain creates a naturally tidy bottom edge that many makers leave as-is.
Weaving in Ends
Weave in all your ends carefully using your tapestry needle. For cotton and linen yarns, take extra care to weave ends in both directions so they do not work loose over time and with washing.
Blocking
Plant-based fibers like cotton and linen respond beautifully to wet blocking, and this step will genuinely transform your top. Once all your ends are woven in, submerge the top in cool water, gently squeeze out the excess (do not wring), and lay it flat on your blocking mats. Pin the edges to your finished measurements and allow it to dry completely — this may take 24 hours or more depending on your climate.
Blocking evens out the stitches, opens up the rattan stitch pattern so it really shines, and settles the fabric into its final drape. It is absolutely worth the wait.
Styling Tips
One of the things I love most about the Wren Rattan Top is how versatile it is. Here are a few ways to style it:
For a casual beach-to-brunch look, pair it with wide-leg linen trousers in a neutral tone and flat sandals. The open stitch pattern means you can wear a bandeau or a simple bralette underneath and the layering shows through beautifully.
For a more polished outfit, tuck it into a midi skirt with a slight sheen — satin or charmeuse works especially well — and add block-heeled mules and simple gold jewelry. The rattan stitch has a natural, artisanal quality that plays perfectly against dressier fabrics.
If you want to wear it as a cover-up at the pool or beach, choose a bright or bold color and let the openness of the stitch do the work. A vivid terracotta, a deep cobalt, or a classic white all look stunning in this stitch pattern.
Care Instructions
Hand wash your Wren Rattan Top in cool water with a gentle soap formulated for delicate fibers. Press out the water gently and lay flat to dry. Avoid putting it in the dryer, as heat can cause plant-based fibers to shrink and may distort the stitch pattern. With proper care, this top will last for many summers to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a thicker yarn for this pattern? You can experiment with a light worsted weight yarn, but the drape will be stiffer and the top will feel heavier. If you go up in yarn weight, your gauge will shift and the finished measurements will change, so be sure to swatch carefully and adjust your stitch count accordingly.
What if I want a longer top or a crop version? Simply adjust the number of rows you work before beginning the armhole shaping. Add rows for more length, remove rows for a shorter crop. Each row adds roughly 0.2 inches, so the math is easy.
Can I make this top seamlessly in the round? The stitch pattern can technically be worked in the round, but the turning chains create a slightly different appearance on the right side than on the wrong side, so your overall fabric texture would differ from the flat version. For a seamless option, consider working it in joined rounds and turning your work at the end of each round to maintain the same right-side appearance.
I am a beginner — is this pattern too advanced for me? If you are comfortable with single crochet, half double crochet, and double crochet, and if you have made a few smaller projects, you are likely ready for this pattern. The rattan stitch is repetitive and rhythmic once you get the hang of it, and working a swatch first will build your confidence before you commit to the full garment.
A Few Final Thoughts
Garment making can feel intimidating, but the Wren Rattan Crochet Top is a genuinely achievable project for anyone willing to take it one row at a time. The stitch pattern rewards your patience with a fabric that looks far more complicated than it really is, and the simple construction means you spend most of your time in a comfortable, meditative rhythm rather than wrestling with complicated shaping.
If you make this top, I would love to see it. Share your finished project using the hashtag #WrenRattanTop so the whole community can admire your work. And if you have questions as you go, drop them in the comments — I am always happy to help troubleshoot.
Happy crocheting, and enjoy every stitch of your beautiful new summer top.
