Arga Top Knitting Pattern

Arga Top in Berroco Mantra

What is Being Made

The Arga Top is an intermediate-level knitted garment designed by Donna Yacino from Berroco Booklet #404. This is a versatile pullover top available in eight sizes ranging from 32" to 60" bust measurement, with finished lengths between 23" and 25½" depending on size. The design features side slits and is shown in a 37" size with approximately 2" of ease. The pattern is notably forgiving due to significant stretch in the stitch pattern, making it an excellent choice for knitters seeking a comfortable, flexible fit.

Techniques Used

The Arga Top employs fundamental knitting construction techniques suitable for intermediate-level crafters. The garment is worked flat using straight needles or longer circular needles, beginning with the back panel. Armhole shaping is incorporated through strategic bind-offs at the beginning of rows to create proper garment structure. A 16" circular needle is used for finishing details. The pattern includes side slits marked at the 5" point from the cast-on edge, adding visual interest and practical ease of movement. Stitch markers and a stitch holder are utilized throughout construction to track pattern repeats and manage stitches during shaping.

Stitches Used

The Arga Top features a distinctive two-row pattern stitch that creates texture and stretch throughout the garment. Row 1 (Right Side): Purl 2 stitches, yarn over, knit 1 stitch, repeated across the row with the final repeat ending in knit 2 instead of knit 1. Row 2 (Wrong Side): Purl 1 stitch, then purl 2 together and knit 2 stitches repeated across. This pattern stitch is repeated throughout the body of the garment and is notable for its variable stitch count from row to row, which contributes to the fabric's characteristic stretch and drape. The combination of yarn overs and decreases creates an open, textured fabric that is both visually appealing and forgiving for fit.

Materials

The Arga Top is designed to be knitted with Berroco Mantra yarn, a 50-gram ball weight. The pattern calls for 4 to 8 balls depending on size selection, with the sample shown in color #4440 Moss. Size 6 (4.00 mm) knitting needles are required to achieve the specified gauge of 24 stitches and 32 rows over 4 inches in the pattern stitch when measured unstretched. A 16" circular needle in the same size is needed for finishing. Additional notions include 2 stitch markers and 1 stitch holder to manage stitches during construction. Berroco recommends using the specified yarn to ensure accurate results and proper garment characteristics.

Gauge and Fit Notes

Achieving the correct gauge is essential for this project. The pattern specifies 24 stitches and 32 rows equal 4 inches in the pattern stitch when measured in an unstretched state. Due to the inherent stretch of the pattern stitch, the sizing is notably forgiving, making this an ideal project for knitters who may be concerned about precise fit. The sample garment shown measures 37" at the bust with approximately 2" of positive ease, demonstrating how the stretch accommodates various body types comfortably.