Blue Sky Fibers Beatrice Top Jumper Knitting Pattern

Blue Sky Fibers Beatrice Top - Organic Cotton Knitting Pattern

What is Being Made

The Beatrice Top is a handknit garment designed for babies and young children, available in four sizes ranging from 6 months to 4T-5T. This sweet, lightweight top is crafted from organic cotton and features a charming back opening detail. The finished measurements range from 18" to 25" in chest circumference, with lengths from shoulder varying between 12½" and 16" depending on size. The design is inspired by carefree beach days and is suitable for warm weather wear.

Techniques Used

The Beatrice Top is constructed using bottom-up knitting methodology, meaning the garment is worked from the lower edge upward. The pieces are worked flat on straight needles rather than in the round, and the finished components are seamed together to create the final garment. This approach allows for straightforward shaping and the creation of the distinctive back opening feature.

Stitches and Stitch Techniques

The primary stitch used throughout the Beatrice Top is stockinette stitch (st st), which creates a smooth, classic knit fabric with a flat appearance on the right side. Shaping is accomplished using several decrease techniques:

• k2tog (knit 2 together) - a right-leaning decrease used for bodice shaping
• ssk (slip, slip, knit) - a left-leaning decrease technique
• p2tog (purl 2 together) - a decrease worked on wrong-side rows

The pattern also incorporates standard abbreviations including bind off (BO) for finishing edges, cast on (CO) for beginning stitches, and the use of stitch holders to temporarily hold stitches during the back opening construction. A tapestry needle is used for finishing and seaming the pieces together.

Materials and Gauge

The Beatrice Top is designed to be worked with Blue Sky Alpacas Skinny Cotton, an organic cotton yarn. Yardage requirements vary by size: 3 hanks are needed for the two smallest sizes (6 months and 12-18 months), while 4 hanks are required for the larger sizes (2T-3T and 4T-5T). Each hank contains 65 grams and 150 yards of yarn.

The pattern specifies a gauge of 20 stitches and 28 rows over 4 inches in stockinette stitch. Achieving proper gauge is essential for obtaining the correct finished measurements. Additional materials include straight needles appropriate for the yarn weight, a stitch holder for managing stitches during the back opening, stitch markers to track pattern repeats and shaping points, and one ¾" button for finishing details.

Design Details

Designed by Erika Flory, the Beatrice Top is classified as an advanced beginner experience level project, making it suitable for knitters with some foundational skills. The garment features a distinctive back opening that adds visual interest and practical functionality for dressing young children. The organic cotton construction from the Blue Sky Fibers Organic Cotton Collection ensures a soft, breathable fabric perfect for warm weather wear, while the stockinette stitch provides a timeless, elegant appearance.