Artemesia Top Knitting Pattern

Artemesia Top in Berroco Isola

What Is Being Made

The Artemesia Top is a knitted pullover garment designed for intermediate-level knitters. This top features a sophisticated lace pattern and is available in multiple sizes ranging from 35" to 70" bust circumference. The finished length varies from approximately 20½" to 23" depending on size, making it a versatile piece suitable for layering or wearing as a standalone top.

Techniques Used

This pattern employs several intermediate knitting techniques that create visual interest and texture. The primary construction method involves working in the round using circular needles, which allows for seamless construction and even fabric development. The pattern incorporates lace techniques featuring yarn overs and decreases that create an open, decorative stitch pattern. Knitters will use k2tog (knit two together) and SSK (slip, slip, knit) decreases paired with yarn overs to form the characteristic lace motifs. The pattern also demonstrates double yarn over techniques, where two yarn overs are worked consecutively and then purled into on the following row to create larger eyelets. Blocking is recommended after completion to ensure accurate gauge and finished measurements.

Stitches Used

• Knit stitch – the foundational stitch used throughout the piece
• Purl stitch – creates texture variation in the pattern stitch
• Yarn over (yo) – creates decorative holes and lace elements
• K2tog (knit two together) – a right-leaning decrease
• SSK (slip, slip, knit) – a left-leaning decrease
• Purl into front and back – increases worked into double yarn overs

Pattern Stitch Details

The pattern stitch repeats over a multiple of 16 stitches plus 8. The four-row repeat creates a balanced lace design with symmetrical decreases and yarn overs. Row 1 is worked entirely in knit on the right side. Row 2 establishes the framework with alternating knit and purl sections. Row 3 contains the primary lace motif with paired decreases (k2tog and SSK) flanking double yarn overs and knit stitches. Row 4 completes the repeat by purling into the front and back of the double yarn overs from the previous row, creating finished eyelets. This stitch pattern creates an elegant, open fabric with visual movement.

Materials: Yarn and Needles

Yarn: Berroco Isola, a yarn weight suitable for this garment construction. The pattern calls for 3 to 6 balls depending on size, with the sample shown using color #8926 Caprera. Each ball weighs 100 grams.

Needles: The pattern requires two sizes of circular needles. Smaller needles (size 3 / 3.25 mm) are used for ribbed edgings and the initial cast-on. Larger needles (size 5 / 3.75 mm) are used for the main body and pattern stitch work. A 16" / 40 cm circular needle in the smaller size is recommended for working the neckline and upper portions.

Gauge and Sizing

The pattern specifies a gauge of 24 stitches and 34 rows over 4 inches (10 cm) in the pattern stitch using the larger needles, measured after blocking. Checking gauge before beginning is essential to ensure the finished garment matches the intended dimensions. The pattern includes eight different size options with bust measurements from 35" to 70" and corresponding length adjustments.

Additional Notions

Beyond yarn and needles, the pattern requires stitch markers to track pattern repeats and shaping points, stitch holders to temporarily secure stitches during armhole and neckline shaping, and waste yarn as an alternative method for holding stitches.