About This Pua Poa Beach Swimsuit Coverup Pattern
This stunning beach coverup is worked lengthwise in two identical panels that are seamed together to create a beautiful V-neckline. The airy mesh stitch pattern creates gorgeous drape while maintaining coverage, making it perfect for wearing over your swimsuit from beach to boardwalk. The design includes a handmade crochet cord belt that threads through the middle, allowing you to cinch and style it exactly how you like. With nine different size options and easily adjustable measurements, this pattern ensures a custom fit that flatters your unique shape.
The coverup features strategic side seaming that creates comfortable arm openings and allows for freedom of movement while maintaining an elegant silhouette. The pattern includes helpful photos throughout to guide you, and the flexible gauge means you don't need to stress about perfection—this design is forgiving and beautiful no matter what.
Why You'll Love This Pua Poa Beach Swimsuit Coverup Pattern
I absolutely love how this coverup combines simplicity with sophistication. The mesh stitch is incredibly meditative to work—once you get into the rhythm, you'll fly through the rows while creating something truly stunning. I designed this because I couldn't find the perfect coverup during my time in Hawaii, and I wanted something that was elegant enough for dinner but practical enough for the beach. What I love most is how customizable it is—you can adjust the length, the neckline depth, the arm openings, and even add your own creative touches. The drape is absolutely gorgeous, and there's something so satisfying about wearing something you made yourself that fits perfectly and makes you feel confident and beautiful.
Switch Things Up
I'm always amazed at how versatile this coverup pattern can be with just a few creative tweaks. First, try experimenting with color blocking by switching yarn colors every few rows to create beautiful stripes or an ombre effect that transitions from light to dark. You could also make this in a solid black or white for a more classic, sophisticated look that works beyond the beach.
For a boho vibe, add fringe along the bottom hem or sleeves by attaching strands of yarn and trimming them to your desired length. I've also seen makers add beads to the belt or weave metallic thread through some of the chain spaces for subtle sparkle. If you want more coverage, simply work a few extra rows before the final dc row, or make the arm openings smaller by adjusting the measurements in the side seaming.
Another fun variation is to make this as a layering piece over tank tops and jeans by using a heavier weight yarn and making it slightly shorter. You could even add pockets by crocheting small pouches and seaming them to the side panels before assembly. The mesh stitch also looks stunning in variegated yarn, which creates an organic, flowing color pattern without any effort. Don't be afraid to make this pattern your own!
Common Mistakes & How to Fix Them
✗ Skipping the gauge swatch can result in a coverup that's too tight or too loose—always make a test square first to ensure proper fit and drape
✗ Not trying on the coverup before finishing the center seam may lead to a neckline that's too tight or too loose—test the opening before securing it permanently
✗ Forgetting to count your foundation double crochet stitches carefully can throw off the entire width of your panel—use stitch markers every 20 stitches to keep track
✗ Seaming too tightly can eliminate the beautiful drape and flow of the fabric—keep your seaming stitches loose and flexible for the best movement
✗ Not measuring the arm openings properly can result in uncomfortable or unflattering fit—measure on your body or a similar garment to get the spacing just right
