That said, for those of us who like to wear a bit less or when we're in that “flaunt it if you got it” mood, this project is an ideal solution. Among our collection of halter tops, it's a particularly fun project and a wonderful base for customization. A pattern perfect for hot summer days.

Although this was meant to be a potholder, this platypus can also be a funny coaster for your table. Made to protect your hands when handling hot dishes, it can also decorate and protect a wooden table against hot drinks or spilt water. The pattern is about 11.4″ long and 7″ wide, so you have to modify it slightly to make it smaller or use thin yarn.

A newborn guinea pig is an adorable small house pet. Thus, making them will be hard to resist. You can crochet only one or a whole family and the colour scheme is entirely up to you (although we feel the natural ones shown below are excellent in their own right). What could be cuter amongst crocheted small home pets?

Who doesn't love handmade potholders? They could be the perfect project for beginner crocheters to practice their stitches while making something useful for their home. This pattern will match a contemporary kitchen and add color to it. The wave stitch is very easy to work and you can make a couple while you watch television. The potholder is first made into a big square and then folded and seamed for the diagonal effect. No increases or decreases are used in the pattern. Cool, isn't it?

Little girls will look darling wearing this Sashay Ruffle Skirt in the spring and summer months. Use Red Heart Sashay yarn to complete this free crochet pattern. The directions are written for sizes 2 and 4, but can easily be made into a smaller size by simply using less chains for the waist. Matching pink ribbon gives this pattern the perfect finishing touch.

This shawl is worked flat starting at the tip working towards the opposite side of the triangle which gives this shawl an asymmetric shape which has been created by increasing on one side. Perfect project for beginners and for the more advanced crocheter and works up quickly. This pattern has been written for DK weight yarn but it is that versatile that it can be done using any weight yarn. This pattern has simple, easy to follow written instructions and does not include any charts. The pattern is written using American standard crochet terms. Hope you enjoy this beautiful design. Happy crocheting!

Next, it seems that V-necks are the thing to do with the best summer tunics. Consequently, here is one with a wonderful edge and tie at the V-neck as well as a fabulous striated texture that needs no polychromy.

This cute owl patten was meant to be an applique, but there is no reason you can't use it as an animal coaster for small glasses. You can also add a round or two to make in slightly bigger.

First, no top ideas list would be complete without a tee. So, the berry top is a wonderful example of one with a loose neck line and a very airy texture and crisp, dense edges.