Berroco Essentials Kousa Top Knitting Pattern

Berroco Essentials Kousa Knit Top

What Is Being Made

The Kousa is a knit top designed by Åsa Buchta, available in nine sizes ranging from 36 inches to 72¼ inches bust measurement. This intermediate-level garment features a classic construction with finished bust measurements from 36 to 72¼ inches and finished lengths from 19 to 21½ inches, making it a versatile piece suitable for various body types and style preferences.

Construction Techniques

The Kousa employs a strategic construction method that combines flat and circular knitting. Front and back hems are worked separately in flat knitting, then joined together to work the body in the round for seamless construction. This hybrid approach offers both the control of flat knitting for the hems and the efficiency of circular knitting for the body. Stitches are separated again at the underarms to allow for independent shaping of the front and back sections, demonstrating an intermediate-level understanding of garment architecture.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The primary stitch used throughout the Kousa is stockinette stitch (St st), which creates a smooth, classic fabric with a flat appearance on the right side and bumpy texture on the wrong side. This fundamental knit stitch is worked consistently across the garment to create a refined, polished finish. The gauge for stockinette stitch is 22 stitches and 30 rows per 4 inches on the larger needles, measured after blocking to ensure accurate finished measurements.

Materials: Yarn and Needles

This pattern calls for Berroco Meraki yarn, a premium fiber choice from Berroco, Inc. The yardage requirements vary by size, ranging from 4 to 10 balls of Berroco Meraki in colorway #6041 Delight, with each ball weighing 50 grams. The color Delight provides a versatile neutral or accent option depending on personal preference.

The needle requirements include:

• One 32-inch circular needle in size 3 (3.25 mm) for ribbed edgings and hems
• One 32-inch circular needle in size 5 (3.75 mm) for the main body in stockinette stitch
• One 16-inch circular needle in size 3 (3.25 mm) for working smaller circumferences

Additional notions include one stitch marker for tracking pattern repeats and waste yarn for temporarily holding stitches during construction. Knitters should select needle sizes to obtain the specified gauge of 22 stitches and 30 rows in 4 inches on the larger needles, with gauge measured after blocking for accuracy.

Sizing and Fit

The pattern recommends 2 to 4 inches of positive ease for a comfortable, modern fit. With nine size options and detailed finished measurements provided for bust and length, knitters can select the appropriate size based on their preferred fit and body measurements.