Berroco Top Knitting Pattern

Berroco Volute Knit Top

What is Being Made

The Volute is a knitted top designed by the Berroco Design Team, offered in multiple sizes ranging from 40½" to 74½" bust measurement. This garment is a versatile piece suitable for intermediate knitters, with finished length measurements between 19½" and 22" depending on size. The top features positive ease of 6–8" in the bust, making it a comfortable, relaxed-fitting garment.

Construction and Techniques

The Volute uses a hybrid construction method that combines circular knitting with flat knitting techniques. The body is worked in the round from the lower hem up to the underarms using circular needles, which creates a seamless construction and allows for efficient stitch management. Once the piece reaches the underarms, the stitches are divided, and the back and front are then worked flat in rows to complete the garment. This approach minimizes seaming while providing the control and shaping options that flat knitting offers for the upper body and neckline.

Stitches Used

The primary stitch pattern employed in the Volute is a Pattern Stitch worked in the round. The pattern begins with knit stitches in rounds 1 and 2, establishing a foundational stockinette base. This straightforward stitch structure makes the pattern accessible to intermediate-level knitters while allowing the yarn characteristics to shine through in the finished fabric.

Materials: Yarn, Needles, and Notions

Yarn: The pattern calls for Berroco Bozzolo, a yarn weight requiring 3 to 5 balls (100 grams each) depending on the finished size. The recommended colorway shown is #10808 Stinging Rose.

Needles and Tools: The pattern requires multiple needle sizes and types to accommodate different sections of the garment:

• 32" circular needles in sizes 6 / 4 mm and 7 / 4.5 mm for the main body
• 24" circular needle in size 6 / 4 mm for smaller circumferences
• 1 set of double-pointed needles or preferred small-circumference needles in size 6 / 4 mm for finishing details
• 2 stitch markers in different colors for tracking pattern repeats and construction points
• Waste yarn for holding stitches during construction
• Tapestry needle for weaving in ends

Gauge: The pattern is worked to a gauge of 16 stitches and 22 rounds or rows over 4 inches (10 cm) in the Pattern Stitch on the larger needle (size 7 / 4.5 mm). Gauge is measured after blocking, making it essential to knit and block a gauge swatch before beginning the project to ensure accurate finished measurements.