Crochet vest patterns are an effortless way to elevate your wardrobe. From lacy tank tops to chic waistcoats and cozy turtlenecks, they’re perfect for layering over any outfit year-round.
And because the easy vests below are made from super simple shapes, they’re an ideal first garment project.

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Crochet Vests for Beginners
Vests are the perfect starting point for anyone new to making crochet clothing. Why? Because they don’t have sleeves! This means you can usually whip up a vest without worrying about any complex increasing or decreasing.
Another big win is that vests are easy to customize. Choose a fitted piece or a drapey design and adjust the length to your liking. And if you decide to add sleeves later, that’s totally doable, too.
Pro Tip: Pin the main pieces together and try them on before joining to check the fit is just right.
What Size Should My Vest Be?
Choosing a size for your vest top differs slightly from picking one up off the rack. You’ll need to consider the “ease,” which basically means how tight or loose you want the fabric to fit your body.
Instead of your typical store-bought size, you should use your bust measurement as a guide for picking a pattern size.
If you plan to wear your vest as a crochet top alone, you may prefer a fitted vest with less ease. But, if you’re going to layer it, you’ll want more ease so it drapes over your outfit.
The Best Crochet Vest Patterns
Make a vest using basic shapes and joining techniques, and see just how easy it is to create your own handmade wardrobe.
Easy Patterns From Make & Do Crew
I've made every kind of crochet vest under the sun. Longline boho styles? Check. Fitted pullover vests? You bet. Button-up sleeveless cardis? Oh yeah, I've made those, too! Let’s check out some of my all-time favorite vest designs.

Simple Two Granny Square Vest
Related: 43 Granny Square Projects You’ll Love

All-Season Modern and Flowy Bohemian Vest

Oversized Shawl-Style Vest

On-Trend Ombre Boho Vest with Fringe
Related: Fringed Boho Bag

Long Sleeveless Vest With Tree Details
Our Latest Crochet Inspiration:
Here are a few more free crochet patterns and tutorials that are hot off the presses.
Vest Patterns for Women
Each of these free vest patterns comes with clear instructions, handy step-by-step photos, or a video tutorial. Whether you're a newbie or an experienced crafter, you'll find a pattern that matches your skill level.

Pullover Mesh Top

Lacy Button-Up Topper

Side Tie Granny Square Vest

V-Neck Sweater Vest

Fitted Vest with Granny Square Motifs

Seashell Waistcoat

Knit-Look Cowled Wrap for Fall + Winter

How to Make a Granny Square Vest Top

Hooded Vest Made from Granny Squares

Nightingale Tunic Vest

Tunisian Invert Waterfall Vest

Mosaic Vest Made from Rectangles

Cropped Cabled Vest
Wanna save this pattern?
Related: Crochet Cable Hat

Checkerboard Crochet Sweater Vest

Lace Pullover Video Tutorial

Granny Stitch Tank Top - Paid Pattern
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A Variety of Vests
Talk about having your pick of the bunch! There are tons of different designs with a range of features. Here are some things to look for when choosing the right pattern for you.
Do you prefer a pullover or an open front? A pullover vest is like a sleeveless sweater, made in two main pieces. An open-front design is similar to a cardigan, with or without buttons.
Do you like your vests fitted or flowy? Some vests hug your body, while others drape loosely.
Short or long? You can find vests in all kinds of lengths, from cropped tank tops to long duster vests.
What's your style? Whether you're into sleek and modern, laid-back boho, or colorful granny squares, there's a vest out there just for you!
Vest Sizing Guide
This chart provides general measurements for vest sizing based on bust size. The suggested measurements result in a fitted style with zero ease. This means the vest fabric is the same circumference as your actual bust. If you prefer a looser fit, size up.
| Size | Bust Measurement | Back Width |
|---|---|---|
| XS | 30” | 15" |
| S | 34” | 17” |
| M | 38” | 18” |
| L | 42” | 20” |
| 1X | 46” | 23” |
| 2X | 50” | 25” |
| 3X | 54” | 27” |
| 4X | 58” | 29” |
| 5X | 62” | 30” |
Ideas for Customization
There are countless ways to make your vest one-of-a-kind, but we've got a few ideas to kick-start your creativity.
Essential Supplies
The crochet materials you need to make your vest will vary by pattern. Here are a few must-have supplies:
- Yarn: Each pattern will include yarn recommendations and alternatives.
- Crochet hook: Use the size recommended on your yarn label to achieve the correct gauge.
- Tapestry needle/yarn needle: This is for weaving in ends and joining.
- Other notions: Scissors, stitch markers, buttons, blocking pins, and a board (optional).
The Best Yarn for Crochet Vests
When it comes to crochet vests, natural fiber blends are one of my favorites. They're breathable, drapey, and make your stitches pop. If you use a cotton or wool, be sure to block your finished project to help the stitches "relax" and even out.
Acrylic blends are a popular choice, too, as they’re easy to care for. Some of my favorites include Color Theory (CYC #4), Lazy Days (CYC #4), and Hue + Me (CYC #5).
Vest designs are also a fantastic way to use up leftover skeins, especially those gorgeous granny square patterns. Just remember to stick with the same yarn weight.
How to Make a Basic Vest Using Rectangles
Materials
- Any yarn
- Crochet hook
Abbreviations + Glossary (US Terms)
- ch – chain
- sc – single crochet
- hdc – half double crochet
- st(s) – stitch(es)
- RS – right side
- WS – wrong side
Abbreviations and Glossary (US Terms):
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Permissions + Copyright
Please do not publish or share this pattern as your own. You may make items to sell with this pattern. In exchange, please link back to this page. Do NOT use my photos as your own sales photos.
Overall Pattern Notes
Instructions
How to Make a Basic Vest Using Rectangles
- Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be sporting a pretty pullover vest in no time! Keep in mind that many patterns will include extra steps to customize the look and fit. This usually means adding more rows (or rounds for granny square designs) to fit different bust measurements.
- Step 1: Make two identical rectangles. The size you choose will determine how your vest fits. Smaller rectangles will create a fitted look, whereas larger rectangles will produce a looser fit around the bust.
- Step 2: Place the rectangles on top of one another, right sides together. Use a mattress stitch or slip stitch (sl st) to join them along the long sides, creating the vest's main body. Don't forget to leave openings for the armholes.
- Step 3: Seam along the top edges of the rectangles to form the shoulders. Remember to leave a gap in the middle for your head to pop through.
- Step 4: Add finishing details like a collar, armhole ribbing, or a neat hem at the bottom of your new vest.
More Easy Clothing Patterns
Caught the crochet clothing craze? Hook your way to a fabulous handmade wardrobe with stylish and beginner-friendly garments and accessories.
- 30 Best Crochet Top Patterns - Tanks, Tunics + Cropped Shirts
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- 30 Easy and Free Crochet Poncho Patterns for All Seasons
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- 35 Crochet Chunky Hats - Quick and Easy Patterns
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- 20 Best Free Crochet Fingerless Gloves Patterns
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