Racer Back Vest Design Help!

[Tanya Masters]

Hi, I'd like to make a crochet racer back vest much like those you can buy in some stores.

 

http://www.newlook.com/shop/womens/tops/grey-crochet-lace-racer-back-vest-_273727403

 

I'm not sure where to start! So far I've only made beanies and head bands. Any suggestions would be great

[wheat]

Using the link you provided it is not clear if you want to vest with crochet insert or to crochet a vest with the "dropped U' back.

 

Either way, it sounds like you may need to consider/find a pattern geared to beginner to get a grounding in following a pattern and shaping and short rows.   These are not difficult techniques when taken in small bites (which means one row at a time without allowing the next or previous rows to overwhelm your thoughts)  You may want to do some practice swatches just to get more confortable with these techniques. 

 

Perhaps someone will be able to provide a link to a well written pattern that shows the style you want. 

[Granny Square]

Interesting, I'm not sure I'd call that a 'racer back' or maybe it means something different in the US.  This is reminding me of the old (100 year old) lace yoke patterns, only more lace in back than front.  Those were made with very fine thread though, much finer than used in the typical doily or lace patterns you find today.

 

Hmm.  I haven't really seen any patterns quite like this.  I have seen lacy over-vest patterns meant to be worn over a tank-top or similar, like these--  (I picked a couple done in thicker yarn, not the fine yarn like your example, they don't look too difficult but are pretty)

http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/light-and-lacy

http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/floral-cami

http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/custom-tank-top-version-1

 

I'll keep looking...