Calista Top Knitting Pattern

Calista Top in Juniper Moon Farm Moonshine

What is Being Made

The Calista Top is a summery knitted garment designed by Ruth Garcia-Alcantud that features a flattering A-line silhouette. This downloadable knitting pattern is available in seven sizes ranging from XS to 3X, with finished bust measurements from 30 inches (76 cm) to 54 inches (137 cm). The garment is constructed to provide a fitted, shaped fit through strategic shaping techniques and decorative elements.

Design Features and Shaping Techniques

The Calista Top takes advantage of vertical ribbing patterns to create its distinctive shape and visual appeal. The A-line construction is achieved through strategic decreasing of the ribbing, which gradually tapers the garment from the bust downward. Two I-cord accents positioned above and below the bust serve both functional and aesthetic purposes—they cinch the garment to create definition and provide the perfect fit at key points of the body. The pattern includes eyelet details that allow the I-cords to be threaded through for adjustable shaping.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns Used

This pattern employs several fundamental knitting stitches and stitch patterns:

• 8-rib pattern – worked in the round with alternating purl and knit stitches (P4, K4 repeat) for the main body
• 6-rib pattern – a variation using P3, K3 repeats for shaping sections
• Eyelet rounds – created using yarn overs and knit two together decreases to form decorative openings for I-cord threading
• I-cord – a tubular cord structure worked on double-pointed needles using continuous knitting without turning, creating a three-dimensional trim element
• 1x1 ribbing – used for the shoulder straps for stretch and structure
• Standard decreases including purl two together (p2tog) and knit two together (k2tog) to shape the garment

Materials and Yarn Requirements

The Calista Top is designed to be worked in Juniper Moon Farm Moonshine yarn in color #06 Firefly. Yardage requirements vary by size, requiring between 3 hanks for the smallest size (XS) and 6 hanks for the larger sizes (1X, 2X, and 3X). The pattern specifies a gauge of 20 stitches and 32 rows over 4 inches (10 cm) when working the rib patterns.

Tools and Notions

To complete this project, knitters will need US 7 (4.5 mm) circular needles in 24-inch length for working the body in the round, as well as US 7 (4.5 mm) double-pointed needles for constructing the I-cord accents. Additional notions include a tapestry needle for finishing and weaving in ends, and a stitch marker to denote the beginning of rounds. The circular needle construction allows for seamless, continuous knitting in the round, which is ideal for creating the smooth vertical ribbing that defines this garment's shape.