The Nusa Mesh Net Crochet Sweater Free Pattern – A Breezy Boho Layer

There's something magical about a crochet sweater that feels like wearing a gentle sea breeze. The Nusa Mesh Net Sweater is exactly that—an open-weave, lightweight garment designed for warm days and cool evenings. With its relaxed, boxy fit and delicate netting that drapes beautifully, this boho-inspired layer is perfect for beach walks, summer festivals, or simply adding texture to your everyday wardrobe. Made with soft cotton yarn, it's breathable, airy, and endlessly wearable. Whether you're a seasoned crocheter or a confident beginner ready for a rewarding project, this free pattern will guide you through every step to create a stunning, handmade piece you'll reach for all season long.

Materials Needed

Before you begin, gather the following supplies to ensure a smooth and enjoyable crochet session:

• Yarn: Worsted weight cotton yarn (approximately 600-800 yards depending on your chosen size). A soft ivory or natural white showcases the mesh pattern beautifully, but any light color will work.
• Hook: 5.5 mm (I-9) crochet hook. Adjust hook size if needed to achieve the correct gauge.
• Other tools: Yarn needle for weaving in ends and seaming, scissors, and a tape measure.
• Gauge: 14 double crochet (dc) x 8 rows = 4 inches (10 cm) in mesh pattern. Meeting gauge is crucial for the correct fit, so take a moment to swatch first.

Step-by-Step Instructions

This pattern is worked in flat panels and then seamed together. The open mesh stitch is simple to memorize and works up quickly. Follow the instructions carefully, and you'll have a beautiful, breezy sweater in no time.

Sizes and Finished Measurements

This pattern is written for sizes Small (Medium, Large, XL). Finished chest measurements are: 36 (40, 44, 48) inches. Choose the size that best fits your bust measurement, keeping in mind the relaxed, boxy fit.

Stitches and Abbreviations

• ch: chain
• sc: single crochet
• dc: double crochet
• sl st: slip stitch
• ch-sp: chain space (the space created by a chain stitch in the previous row)
• Special stitch – Mesh Net Stitch: (dc, ch 1, skip 1 st) repeated across the row. This creates the open, airy grid.

Important Notes

• The sweater is worked in panels (back, front, and two sleeves) and then seamed together.
• The mesh pattern stretches slightly, so the fabric will relax and drape beautifully once worn.
• Always check your gauge before starting. If your swatch is too small, try a larger hook; if too large, use a smaller hook.

Back Panel

Foundation: Chain 76 (84, 92, 100) loosely. This loose foundation chain is important to prevent the bottom edge from being too tight.

Row 1: Dc in the 4th ch from the hook (the skipped chains count as your first dc). *Ch 1, skip 1 ch, dc in the next ch.* Repeat from * to * across the row. Turn. At the end of this row, you will have 37 (41, 45, 49) dc and 36 (40, 44, 48) ch-1 spaces.

Row 2: Ch 3 (this counts as your first dc). Dc in the first ch-1 space. *Ch 1, dc in the next ch-1 space.* Repeat from * to * across the row, ending with a dc in the top of the turning chain from the previous row. Turn.

Continue: Repeat Row 2 until the piece measures 20 (21, 22, 23) inches from the start, or until it reaches your desired length. Fasten off and weave in the end.

Front Panel

Start: Work the same as the back panel until the piece measures 15 (16, 17, 18) inches from the start. This shorter length will create a lower, scoop-style neckline in the front.

Shape the Neckline – Right Shoulder: Continue working the mesh pattern across the first 12 (13, 14, 15) dc. Turn and work only these stitches for 5 more inches. While working these rows, you will decrease 1 dc at the neck edge every other row by working 2 dc together (dc2tog) at the beginning of the row. Continue decreasing until 8 (9, 10, 11) dc remain. Fasten off.

Shape the Neckline – Left Shoulder: Skip the center 13 (15, 17, 19) dc. Join your yarn with a sl st in the next dc. Work the second shoulder to match the first, mirroring the decreases. Fasten off.

Sleeves (Make 2)

Foundation: Chain 46 (50, 54, 58) loosely.

Row 1: Dc in the 4th ch from the hook. *Ch 1, skip 1 ch, dc in the next ch.* Repeat from * to * across. Turn.

Work the Mesh: Work in the mesh pattern as established for the back panel. To shape the sleeve, increase 1 dc at each edge every 4 rows by working 2 dc in the first and last dc of the row. Continue increasing until you have 56 (60, 64, 68) dc in the row.

Finish: Continue working even (without increases) until the sleeve measures 12 (13, 14, 15) inches from the start. Fasten off.

Assembly

Now it's time to bring your sweater together. Lay your pieces flat and follow these steps for a professional finish.

Step 1 – Sew Shoulder Seams: Place the front and back panels with right sides together. Using a mattress stitch or whip stitch, sew the shoulder seams. The front neckline will dip lower than the back, which is correct.

Step 2 – Mark Sleeve Caps: Fold each sleeve in half lengthwise and mark the center of the top edge (the sleeve cap) with a stitch marker or a scrap of yarn.

Step 3 – Attach Sleeves: Pin the center of the sleeve cap to the shoulder seam. Pin the rest of the sleeve cap evenly around the armhole opening. Sew the sleeves in place using a whip stitch.

Step 4 – Sew Side and Sleeve Seams: With right sides together, sew the side seams of the body and the underarm seams of the sleeves in one continuous line. Start at the bottom of the sweater, sew up the side, and continue down the sleeve to the cuff.

Neckband

Round 1: Join your yarn with a sl st at one shoulder seam. Work 1 round of single crochet (sc) evenly around the entire neckline. Work 1 sc in each dc and 1 sc in each ch-1 space. This will create a neat, finished edge. Join with a sl st to the first sc. Fasten off.

Finishing Touches

Weave in Ends: Use your yarn needle to carefully weave in all loose ends on the wrong side of the fabric. This ensures your sweater looks clean and professional.

Blocking: Blocking is essential for this pattern. It opens up the mesh, evens out the stitches, and gives the sweater its beautiful drape. Soak the sweater in lukewarm water with a gentle wool wash for 15-20 minutes. Gently squeeze out excess water (do not wring). Lay the sweater flat on a clean towel, shape it to the correct measurements, and pin if necessary. Allow it to dry completely.

Your Nusa Mesh Net Crochet Sweater is now complete! This breezy, boho layer is perfect for throwing over a tank top or swimsuit. The open weave makes it ideal for transitional weather, and the soft cotton yarn ensures it's comfortable against the skin. Enjoy wearing your handmade creation, and don't be surprised if you find yourself making another one in a different color!