Ayana Top Knitting Pattern

Ayana Top in Berroco Tillie

What is Being Made

The Ayana Top is a knitted garment designed by Alison Green, suitable for intermediate-level knitters. This top features a fitted silhouette with finished bust measurements ranging from 34¾ inches to 69½ inches across eleven size options, accommodating a wide range of body types. The garment length varies from 20¾ inches to 24¼ inches depending on size selection. The design is shown in size 5, which has a finished bust measurement of 48¾ inches.

Construction Method

The Ayana Top is constructed using a bottom-up approach worked in the round using circular needles. The garment is knitted in one continuous piece from the hem up to the underarms, where the work is then divided to create separate back and front sections. This construction technique allows for seamless integration of pattern stitches and efficient garment assembly.

Knitting Techniques and Stitches

This intermediate-level project incorporates several specialized knitting techniques:

• Stockinette Stitch (St st): The primary stitch used throughout the garment, providing a smooth, classic knit fabric
• Wrap 3 Stitch: A decorative stitch technique worked differently depending on whether the knitter is working in the round on the right side or working flat on the wrong side. When worked in the round on the right side, the technique involves slipping 3 stitches with yarn in front, passing yarn to back, slipping the same 3 stitches back to the left-hand needle, passing yarn to front, and purling 3. When worked flat on the wrong side, the process involves passing yarn to back, slipping 3 stitches with yarn in back, passing yarn to front, slipping the same 3 stitches back to the left-hand needle, passing yarn to back, and knitting 3.
• Pattern Stitches: The design incorporates pattern stitches that can be worked either from written directions or from accompanying charts, providing flexibility for different knitting preferences

Yarn and Needle Specifications

The Ayana Top is designed to be knitted using Berroco Tillie yarn in the colorway #10978 Jade. Berroco Tillie is a worsted-weight yarn sold in 100-gram hanks, with yardage requirements ranging from 2 to 5 hanks depending on the selected size. The pattern calls for a 32-inch circular needle in size 6 (4 mm) or a size that achieves the specified gauge. A stitch marker and waste yarn are required notions for holding stitches during construction.

Gauge and Finishing

The pattern specifies a gauge of 23 stitches and 32 rows or rounds equal to 4 inches (10 centimeters) when working in stockinette stitch using the larger needle. The gauge is measured after blocking, which is an essential step to ensure accurate finished measurements. The pattern recommends 2 to 4 inches of positive ease for a comfortable fit.