Come learn how to crochet this Square Motif Top, a lace piece built from round floral medallions and little leaf sprays. Wear it over a sundress, layer it above a camisole, or fold a few motifs into a table runner when you want a gentler project.
The Square Motif Top
Each motif begins as a small round flower, its spoked centre radiating outward like a wheel of fine stitches, then opens into a square corner softened by tiny rings and slender leaves. When the motifs are joined, the fabric becomes airy yet structured, with open spaces that let light and skin whisper through the pattern. This Crochet Square Motif Top suits anyone who loves heirloom lace but wants something modern enough to wear on an ordinary Tuesday. It drapes with a quiet elegance, and the more you look at it, the more small details you find.
The rich cocoa brown in the reference pieces gives the lace a warm, vintage look, like a doily found in a grandmother’s cedar chest. Soft ivory, dusty rose, sage green, or deep navy would each give the same design a different personality. Choose a neutral for versatility or a bold shade for a statement piece.
Motif Top Related Posts:
- Crochet Halter Top: A Chic Summer Essential
- Crochet Cherry Embroidered Top: A Sweet Vintage Charm
- Crochet Balloon Sleeve Sweater: A Chic Timeless Staple
- Crochet Bomber Jacket: A Modern Wardrobe Essential
Materials and Tools
For the best stitch definition, choose a fine mercerised cotton thread in a lace or size 3 weight, or a fingering weight cotton blend if you prefer a slightly softer drape. Pair it with a 1.5mm steel hook, which keeps the stitches tight and lets the medallions hold their round shape. Cotton is ideal because it blocks crisply and gives the lace a lovely sheen, and a small pair of sharp scissors and a tapestry needle will handle the finishing. A good light and a comfortable chair help too, since fine thread rewards a relaxed pace.
Stitch by Stitch
The motifs rely on a small family of stitches, and the video tutorial walks you through every round slowly and clearly.
- CH (chain) Chains form the starting ring, the airy spokes, and the little picot-like loops that frame each motif.
- SC (single crochet) Short, firm stitches build the dense bands that give each medallion its sturdy outline.
- DC (double crochet) These taller stitches create the open lattice between the spokes and shape the leaves.
- 2DTR (double treble crochet, worked in a pair) Long, elegant stitches stretch up and out to form the pointed leaf sprays and corners, as shown in Round 6.
Once the pattern becomes familiar, the rhythm turns almost meditative, a steady loop of chain, stitch, and join that settles your breathing and makes the hours pass gently.
Construction
The top is worked motif by motif, with each square finished and then joined to its neighbours as you go or stitched together afterwards. This means you can work in small pieces, carry a single motif in your bag, and never feel overwhelmed by a large project. Beginners can start with one practice motif, which doubles as a coaster, before committing to the full garment. To customise the fit, simply add or remove motifs across the width and length, keeping the layout symmetrical for a balanced finish.
Wearing Your Square Motif Top
Slip it over a slim camisole with high-waisted denim for an easy weekend look, or layer it above a long linen skirt for a garden party. In cooler months, wear it over a fitted turtleneck so the lace pattern stands out against a solid base. Whichever way you wear it, people will lean in to ask where you found it, and you will get to say you made it yourself.
Keeping Your Lace Top Looking Its Best
Wash your Crochet Square Motif Top by hand in cool water with a gentle detergent, pressing the water through the fabric rather than wringing it. Lay it flat on a clean towel, shape each motif back into its square, and pin the corners if needed so the lace dries crisp and even. A light steam from a distance can refresh the shape without flattening the stitches. Store it folded flat in a breathable cotton bag, away from hooks and rough surfaces that might snag the fine thread.
Every motif you finish is a small act of patience, and together they become something truly worth wearing. Save this Crochet Square Motif Top to your Pinterest board and come back to the video tutorial whenever you are ready to pick up your hook.
Follow us on Pinterest and subscribe to the Newsletter so you don’t miss a thing!
Tutorial and photos of this square motif top by: LIN CROCHET.