Breakwater Top Knitting Pattern

Breakwater Top in Berroco Quinoa

What Is Being Made

The Breakwater Top is an intermediate-level knitted garment designed by Amy Christoffers. This pullover top features a modern construction with decorative panel details and is available in seven sizes, ranging from 36" to 60" finished bust measurements. The garment offers approximately 2–4" of ease for comfortable wear, with finished lengths varying from 21½" to 24½" depending on size selection.

Knitting Techniques Used

This project employs in-the-round knitting on circular needles, a technique that creates seamless garments by working continuously around the body rather than in flat pieces. The pattern utilizes ribbed edging at the lower body for stretch and structure, followed by panel placement that creates visual interest through strategically positioned stitch pattern sections. The design incorporates stitch markers to help track pattern repeats and construction sections, making it accessible for intermediate knitters who have experience with basic circular needle techniques.

Stitches Used

The primary stitch structure is Reverse Stockinette Stitch, which is worked by purling every round to create a smooth, textured fabric with a subtle horizontal appearance. The pattern also features ribbing (alternating knit and purl stitches) in the initial 2" of the garment, which provides elasticity and a finished edge. Additional stitch patterns are introduced through charted Right Panel and Left Panel sections that contain 10 stitches each, adding decorative detail to the front and back of the garment.

Materials and Tools

This project requires Berroco Quinoa yarn, a natural fiber option available in the colorway #1040 Fennel. Yardage requirements range from 4 balls for the smallest size (36") to 8 balls for the largest size (60"), with each ball weighing 50 grams. The pattern calls for two sizes of 29" circular needles—size 4 (3.50 mm) for ribbing and size 6 (4.00 mm) for the main body—plus a 16" circular needle in size 4 for finishing work. Additional notions include stitch markers (with one designated in a different color to mark the beginning of each round), a stitch holder, and waste yarn for holding stitches during construction. The recommended gauge is 22 stitches and 30 rows over 4 inches in Reverse Stockinette Stitch using the larger needle, making accurate gauge checking essential for proper fit.