Paintbox Yarns Queenie Bikini Crochet Pattern

Paintbox Yarns Queenie Bikini: Free Crochet Pattern

What is Being Made

The Queenie Bikini is an intermediate-level crochet accessory designed as a women's swimwear piece. This free downloadable pattern offers versatility with three colorway options: a classic Plain Bikini in a single color, a Two Colour Bikini combining two complementary shades, and a Three Colour Bikini featuring multiple hues for visual interest. The pattern is sized to fit bust measurements of 81, 86, 91, and 97 centimeters (32, 34, 36, and 38 inches), making it adaptable for various body types.

Techniques and Construction Method

This bikini is constructed using lace techniques and is worked flat, meaning pieces are crocheted in flat panels rather than in the round. The lace construction creates an openwork, decorative fabric that is ideal for swimwear, offering breathability and an elegant aesthetic. Working flat allows for easier shaping and the ability to try on pieces as you progress, which is particularly useful when creating fitted garments like bikinis.

Stitches Used

The pattern employs fundamental crochet stitches suitable for intermediate crafters:

• Chain stitch (ch) – the foundation stitch used to create the base of the work and to add height between rows
• Double crochet (dc) or Single crochet (sc) – the primary fabric-building stitch; the pattern uses UK double crochet terminology with US single crochet equivalents provided in parentheses
• Double crochet two together (dc2tog or sc2tog) – a decrease stitch that combines two stitches into one, used for shaping the garment to fit the body
• Slip stitch (ss) – used to join rounds and secure stitches, particularly in creating picot details
• Picot – a decorative element created by chaining 3 stitches and slip stitching to the top of the base stitch, adding ornamental edging

Materials: Yarn and Tools

The Queenie Bikini pattern specifies Paintbox Yarns Cotton DK yarn, a medium-weight cotton yarn ideal for swimwear due to its breathability and durability. Yarn requirements vary by colorway: the Plain Bikini requires 4 × 50g balls of a single color (Champagne White is shown), the Two Colour Bikini needs 2 balls each of two colors (Marine Blue and Kingfisher Blue), and the Three Colour Bikini uses 2 balls each of three colors (Bright Peach, Daffodil Yellow, and Midnight Blue).

The pattern calls for a 3½mm crochet hook, designated as UK size 9 or US size E4. This hook size works in conjunction with the Cotton DK yarn to achieve the specified tension.

Tension and Gauge

Proper tension is critical for this project. The pattern specifies a tension of 18 stitches and 21 rows to 10 centimeters (4 inches) when measured over double crochet fabric using the recommended 3½mm hook. The pattern emphasizes that checking tension before beginning is vitally important, as working to incorrect tension will result in a garment that does not fit properly. Crafters may need to adjust hook size if their tension does not match the specification.

Pattern Features and Notes

The pattern includes comprehensive instructions written in UK crochet terminology with US terminology provided in parentheses, making it accessible to crocheters using either convention. Instructions are given for the smallest size with size variations indicated in square brackets for larger sizes. Repeat instructions are noted in round brackets, and where a figure of 0 appears, no stitches, times, or rows are worked for that particular size. Paintbox Yarns recommends using only the specified Cotton DK yarn to ensure the finished garment meets design specifications, and notes that yarn quantities are approximate based on average requirements.