I am getting ready to go on a cruise and wanted to make something to go over my bathing suit. While flipping through the 2007 Spring issue of Interweave Crochet, I found the lace ZZ Topper top and knew that was what I was going to make! It comes in three sizes, and is made to fit loosely so that another shirt, tank or bathing suit can fit underneath it. I opted not to use the yarn it calls for as it has since been discontinued. Instead, I visited-Jo-Ann for their Memorial Day sale and got three skeins of Lion Brand Heartland in Yellowstone. I ended up using 2.5 skeins for my version of the top; I modified the back to make it into a tunic (longer in the back and rounded out). I used a larger hook than the pattern calls for as well, going up to a 7.00 mm hook.

This pattern is really easy to read and works up super fast. It is all done in one piece, and the length can be adjusted. If you wanted to, you could turn this into a full dress! Worked in the round, each round is joined, and the piece turned before starting the next round. This is how you create the zig zag appearance in the shell stitches. This pattern is marked as easy, and I would agree. An advanced crocheter could get this project done in a single day, while a newbie could whip it up in a week or less.

Once finished, this top is excellent for Spring and Summer! It’s airy lace is perfect for the beach, a concert, or a walk around the mall. Just throw it on over a tank, and watch as the compliments spill in! You’ll also get extra kudos when you tell everyone you made it yourself. The first time I wore mine out, I was stopped three times in the matter of 30 minutes. This “topper” is sure to be a hit anywhere you wear it.

Pattern: ZZ Topper by Doris Chan ($9.99 – Interweave Crochet Spring 2007 issue)
Hook Used: 7.00 mm
Yarn Used: Lion Brand Heartland in Yellowstone

Don’t forget to share your comments about and completed photos of your ZZ Topper in the comments!