Are you ready to stitch up something cute, comfy, and just perfect for those warm summer days? Because today I’m sharing a brand new free sewing pattern that has totally stolen my heart—say hello to your new go-to Summer Crop Top Sewing Pattern!
This little top has everything I was dreaming of for my summer closet: spaghetti straps, a strapless neckline, and my favorite detail of all—a corset-style tie-back that looks super chic but is secretly very easy to sew.
It’s cropped, it’s light, and it gives you just the right amount of breezy summer vibes.
The best part? It comes with a printable PDF file!
NOTE: This post contains affiliate links, which means that if you make a purchase using one of the links in this article, I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you (To know more about this, click here.)
About this pattern
So, where did this lovely top come from? Well, I had been desperately needing to refresh my summer wardrobe (it’s been a while, okay?), and just as I was dreaming up some new makes, a dear friend gifted me a big ol’ box of fabrics.
And in it? The most gorgeous yellow striped cotton. The moment I saw it, I knew it had to become a cute summer top.
And now? You get to sew one too! Don’t worry—this is totally beginner-friendly—and honestly, adorable enough to make more than one.
I already want three more in different prints!
The straps of this top go from the neckline on the front to the corset loops closure on the back. You can tie them crossed, as I am wearing them in these pictures, or straight. Your choice.
You will find this pattern file in printable sizes for Letter and A4 paper, allowing you to print it at home. The specifications for sizing and instructions on how to adapt them to your measurements are included in the instructions.
Don’t worry, this pattern is totally beginner-friendly—and honestly, it’s so fun and quick to sew that you’ll want to make more than one! I’m already dreaming up a few more in floral, gingham, and linen!
Styling Your Summer Crop Top
Let’s talk outfit ideas! This crop top is a styling dream because it pairs beautifully with so many things:
Buy my look on my Amazon Store Front
Personally, I love wearing mine with denim jeans—it gives off that effortless, breezy look that’s perfect for a summer festival, a flower-picking afternoon, or even just running errands in style. Top it off with flowery accessories (I found the cutest earrings and a necklace on Amazon!) and a crocheted flower bag, and you’re ready to rock that summer look.
Honestly? This top looks cute whether you’re heading to the farmer’s market or just watering your plants. It’s a vibe.
What You’ll Need (aka The Sewing Materials Checklist)
Here’s what you’ll need to bring this crop top to life:
Buy My Tools and Materials on Amazon
- 1 yard of breathable woven fabric – I used cotton poplin, but rayon or gingham would also look adorable
- Matching thread
- Fabric scissors or rotary cutter
- Pins or clips
- Loop turner (or a safety pin if that’s what you’ve got!)
- Button Gauge
- Ruler or measuring tape
- Sewing machine
Optional, but super cool: try upcycling an old thrifted dress shirt! The back panel of a button-down shirt works perfectly for this top—and it’s eco-friendly, too. Friendly tip: If your fabric makes your heart skip a beat, it’s probably the right one. Just make sure it’s a woven fabric.
Sizing and Fit
This pattern is designed for a chest size of 39 inches, but don’t worry—thanks to the adaptable corset closure, it can fit anyone between 36” and 41” around the chest.
If you need it smaller or larger, it’s super easy to adjust. Simply add an extra seam allowance to the side seams, and voilà—custom fit!
DIY Summer Crop Top Sewing Pattern Instructions.
Let’s walk through the steps together, sewing buddy-style!
1. Download and Assemble Your Sewing Pattern
At the end of this post, you will find this exact free PDF sewing pattern and the instructions to download.
Now, many of you have commented on my various freebies, expressing a desire to have the option to download the PDF instructions so that you can follow at your own pace. I have created a complete bundle for this pattern in all sizes, along with downloadable PDF instructions, available for purchase.
However, if you don’t want to purchase the option and don’t fit the size of the free option, I’ve also provided additional resources for you to download a similar style.
I’ve got you, friend!
1. Cut Your Pieces
I used the same fabric for both the outer layer and the lining.
But if you’re using different ones, follow the cutting instructions in the pattern.
You’ll need one front and two back pieces in both your main and lining fabrics.
2. Mark and Sew the Darts
Transfer the side and waist darts onto the wrong side of both the outer and lining front bodices.
Carefully sew along the lines and give them a nice press to flatten.
3. Assemble the Bodice
Place the back pieces on the front bodice, right sides facing each other.
Match up the side seams, pin, and sew at a ½” seam allowance.
Press open. Do the same with the lining.
4. Make the Straps and Loops
Cut two strips of fabric, each 1 ⅛” wide and 60” long.
Fold them in half lengthwise (right sides together), sew at ¼” from the edge, turn them right side out, and press.
Then cut another long strip of 30” and cut twelve 2 ¼” long loops.
5. Add the Straps and Back Loops
Attach the straps at the top front edge, aligning them with the center of the waist darts.
On each back bodice piece, mark ⅜” from the top and bottom, then space the loops evenly between those marks.
I used a button gauge to help with the spacing—it was a lifesaver!
Sew the loops down with a topstitch at 1/4”.
6. Sew the Outer and Lining Together
Place your outer fabric and lining right sides together, then sew all the way around the top edge (⅜”), bottom edge (⅜”), and the center backs ( ½”), leaving a 3 ½” opening at the back.
Cut the corners of the seam allowances. Turn everything right side out and press.
To finish, close the opening with an invisible ladder stitch, press one more time, and you’re done!
Get the Free Pattern!
Your free Summer Crop Top pattern is waiting for you! It fits a 39” chest, and with the adjustable corset back, you can rock it even if your measurements are anywhere between 36” and 41”.
Need a different size? Just tweak the side seam allowance—it’s as simple as that.
Are you interested in my usual 22 sizes? If you love this pattern and would like me to create the complete sewing pattern in those sizes, please leave a comment below! I’d be thrilled to start working on it. It’s really helpful for me to know if enough people are excited about it before I dive in and put in the effort.
- The pattern comes in A4 and US Letter formats
- It’s printer-friendly
- Be sure to print at 100% and follow the trimming guide to assemble it correctly.
Or purchase the complete sewing pattern!
But, just FYI, you can also get the complete version of the Lotus Crop Top Sewing Pattern, which includes three style variations, 22 sizes (from 4XS to 8XL), detailed downloadable digital instructions, and multiple printing options (letter A4, A0, and Projector).
Crop Top Making Resources
You can visit this site to draft your own summer top pattern.
PS: Once you are done with this tutorial, hack this pattern!! I just posted a tutorial on how to hack this free pattern into a shirred back top.
Share Your Makes!
If you make this little cutie (and I really hope you do!), I’d LOVE to see it! Share your crop top on social media and tag me: @mygoldenthimble on Instagram and Facebook @my.golden.thimble on TikTok.
Or leave a comment below to tell me what fabric you used—I’m always looking for new inspo! And if you get stuck or have questions, my inbox is always open. Happy sewing, sunshine!
I’d like this pattern for 32″ chest girth, please!
I just posted the full sizes product on the shop, friend! The name is Lotus Crop Top Sewing Pattern
I don’t see a link to download the pattern. can you help?
Of course dear, you have to opt-in to the yellow form on this post, and then you will get an email with the download link.
Thank you for taking the time to make us this pattern, I’m so excited to try it out. Finally a simple, trendy, EASY corset like top! Also it looks stunning on you 🙂
Leah! Thank you so much for this comment! I bet it will look adorable on you too!
I would love to have this to fit a 52-54 inch bust, and possibly cut as a babydoll top open in the back. Thanks
Thank you so much. What do you mean open in the back?
Dafhtne…I don’t know if I’m the same ‘Linda’, but I would like a babydoll style as well. What I am looking for is like a skirt or apron pattern attached at the hem, opened in back. This would be to help hide my belly.
Hi Linda! Thanks for writing!
Do you mean a skirt or apron attached to the hem of this top?? If so, you could make a half-circle skirt and add it like a peplum maybe??
As for a baby doll like that, we don’t have that pattern but it would be fun to make one!