This delicate tank top is perfect for the summer months. Any child will look precious while wearing this sweet top. Pattern is designed from the top down. The bodice is created as a band and the shell portion of top is worked off of that band. Arm straps and decorative edges are then added to the top of the bodice. Pattern includes links to optional flower and leaves embellishments, both free patterns.

Materials
1 skein of Caron’s Simply Soft (7oz/366 yards) in main color- 1 ½ – 2 skeins. Or 330-660 yards
small amount of Caron’s Simply Soft in contrasting color (optional)
Bernat Softee Baby will also work- other worsted weight yarns will produce larger results
5.5mm (I) hook (or hook needed to obtain gauge)
Yarn needle

Gauge
Hdc- 12sts and 10 rows = 4”

Finished Measurements
Chest 23” (25”, 26 ½”, 28)
Length 16” (18”, 18”, 20”)

Special Stitches

FHDC- foundation half double crochet
Ch 3 and yarn over (YO). Insert hook in 3rd chain from hook. YO and pull up loop (3 loops on hook). YO and draw through 1 loop (1 chain made). YO and draw through all loops on hook—1 foundation half double crochet. This is your first fhdc. For each additional fhdc needed; YO and insert hook under the 2 loops of the “chain” of last stitch and pull up loop. YO and draw through 1 loop, yarn over and draw through all loops on hook.

Notes (unless otherwise noted)
• Be sure to use minimal tension when crocheting edges on body (rows 1 & 2) and arms section. If you crochet tightly you may want to change to a half size larger hook for those portions.
• Pattern is written in 4y size, changes for 6yo, 8yo and 10yo are in parenthesis
• Pattern runs on the smaller side, be sure to use child’s measurements OR consider using the larger size
• For Bodice section
o Ch2 at the beginning of each row does not count as first hdc or in stitch count
o Sl st into the top of the ch to join rounds
• Be sure to use minimal tension when crocheting edges on body (rows 1 & 2) and arms section. If you crochet tightly you may want to change to a half size larger hook for those portions.
• For Body/Shell section
o To join each shell round: Sl st into the top of the ch3.
o To begin the next shell round: Sl st into the next st then sl st into the ch 1 space OR next (middle) st.