Free Pattern: Bikini Top Applique/Alternative top for Keesha Arthur's "Booby Coozy" pattern

I thought these Boobie Koozies on Ravelry/Craftster were hilarious, and was ecstatic when a friend wanted to learn to crochet so she could make one last year. I spent hours teaching her and her cousin the basics of crochet, and we each started making a koozie. That day, I made the bikini top as written in the pattern, but I wasn't too fond of it. When a different friend asked me to make more, I decided I wanted something different, so I came up with this! One of the best parts is that its really easy to customize and make each look a little bit different! These could also be used as a large applique - just change the bikini strings to chains for an easier piece to sew down. Enjoy!

Pattern and photos are Copyright © 2013 Lillian Minneman - Just Stitched. Pattern shall remain free, and may not be reproduced or sold. Feel free to link to this pattern.

Materials:
G/4.25mm Hook
WW yarn in desired color
(Optional) WW yarn in contrasting color
Yarn Needle
Scissors

Key:
ch - Chain
sc - Single Crochet
st - Stitch
sc2tog - Decrease
F/O - finish off

Bikini Top (Make 2):
Leaving a couple inches extra to start with, Ch11.
Row 1: sc in 2nd ch from hook and across. Turn (DO NOT CHAIN).
Row 2: sc2tog, sc across til last 2 st. sc2tog. (8st) Turn (DO NOT CHAIN)
Row 3: sc across. (8st)
Row 4: sc2tog, sc across til last 2 st. sc2tog. (6st) Turn (DO NOT CHAIN)
Row 5: sc across. (6st)
Row 6: sc2tog, sc across til last 2 st. sc2tog. (4st) Turn (DO NOT CHAIN)
Row 7: sc across. (4st)
Row 8: sc2tog, sc across til last 2 st. sc2tog. (2st) Turn (DO NOT CHAIN)
Row 9: sc across. (2st)
Row 10: sc2tog, sc across til last 2 st. sc2tog. (1st).
ch1, F/O. Leave long tail for top ties.

Finishing:
Attach tops together either by tying a knot in the starting tails, or sewing together with the tails.
Embellish as you wish (flowers, bows, sc around in contrasting colors, etc).
Cut two long pieces of yarn. Fold in half, and attach in the bottom corners of each bikini piece as you'd attach a tassel. Tie in back.
Weave in ends, and trim any excess on the ties.

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