Making a Bikini Top for a Mermaid Tail

Introduction

• The bikini top will consist of cute seashells.
• It is designed as a photo prop for a baby on the beach.
• The tutorial uses bright orange yarn for the shells and turquoise for the strings.
  • Yarn Used: Red Heart Super Saver, Medium Size 4
  • Hook Used: Size G (4.25mm)

Materials Needed

• Yarn: Bright orange and turquoise
• Hooks: Size G (4.25mm), Size J, Size H (for mermaid tail)

Instructions

Making the Seashells

1. Start with a Slip Knot
   • Create a slip knot on your hook.
2. Chain 7
   • Yarn over and pull through for 7 chains.
3. Single Crochet Across
   • Begin single crochet in the second chain from the hook.
   • Work in the back ridges for a clean edge.
   • Result: 6 single crochet.
4. Subsequent Rows (Increasing Rows)
   • Row 2: Chain 1, turn, single crochet in the first 5 stitches, 2 single crochet in the last stitch. (7 sc total)
   • Row 3: Chain 1, turn, 2 single crochet in the first stitch, single crochet in rest. (8 sc total)
   • Continue increasing till Row 8 (12 sc total).
5. Subsequent Rows (Decreasing Rows)
   • Row 9: Single crochet decrease in first two stitches, single crochet across. (11 sc total)
   • Row 10: Single crochet in first 9 stitches, decrease the last two. (10 sc total)
   • Continue decreasing till Row 15.
6. Finish Off
   • Chain 1, cut yarn, sew in ends.

Adding Bottom Edge and Shaping

1. Turn Work Upside Down
   • Work in the row edges to shape the shell.
2. Attach Yarn
   • Slip stitch into the edge and chain 1.
3. Double Crochet Three Together
   • Repeat across the row for shaping.
4. Subsequent Rows
   • Row 2: Half double crochet in first two, three in middle, one in last two.
   • Row 3: Three half double crochet in first, one in the next five, three in last.
5. Finish Off
   • Fasten off, sew in ends.

Making the Straps

1. Attach Strap to Shell Top
   • Slip stitch yarn to the top of the shell, chain 50, and fasten off.
2. Repeat on the second shell.
3. Make a Long Chain for Bottom
   • Chain 150 for the bottom strap.
4. Weave the Long Chain
   • Weave through the stitches of the shell after the decreases.
5. Sew in Ends
   • Trim excess yarn for a clean finish.

Final Touches

• Ensure the chains are not twisted.
• Adjust and align shell tops.

Conclusion

• The bikini top is now ready to complement the mermaid tail.
• Additional resources and patterns available in the video description.
• Encouragement to subscribe for more tutorials and updates.

Notes

• Refer to the video for visual instructions and additional details.
• Recommended to make two shells for a complete bikini top.
• Perfect for Etsy shop items or personal gifts.