Classic Elite Yarns Cheri Jumper Knitting Pattern

Classic Elite Yarns Cheri Sleeveless Top

What Is Being Made

Cheri is a textured sleeveless top designed by Kathy North, originally published in Calista 1602. This intermediate-level knitting project creates a sophisticated garment worked in two separate pieces that are seamed together. The design features decorative lace and cable stitch patterns combined with textured elements, making it an elegant addition to any wardrobe. Available in sizes XS through 2XL, with the pattern shown in size S.

Construction Method and Techniques

This sleeveless top is constructed using a bottom-up approach, meaning knitting begins at the lower edge and progresses upward toward the shoulders. The garment is worked flat on straight needles rather than in the round, allowing for two distinct front and back pieces that are later seamed together at the sides. This traditional construction method provides excellent shaping control and makes it easier to achieve proper fit. The finishing touch involves applied I-Cord, a decorative cord technique that is knitted separately and then sewn around the neck and armhole edges for a polished, professional appearance.

Stitch Patterns and Textural Elements

Cheri showcases multiple advanced stitch techniques that create visual interest and texture throughout the garment:

• Cluster Lace Pattern: This intricate stitch pattern works over a multiple of 6 stitches plus 3. The pattern creates delicate openwork through a combination of wrap stitches and cluster decreases. Wrap stitches are formed by wrapping yarn around the needle twice before knitting the stitch, then dropping the extra wraps on the following row. These wraps are then consolidated into clusters through purl-together decreases, creating distinctive textured bumps and lace effects. The pattern repeats over 8 rows and produces a gauge of 20 stitches and 29 rows per 4 inches when blocked.
• Staked Cable: A substantial cable pattern worked over 18 stitches that measures approximately 2½ inches wide when blocked. This cable features a 12-stitch central cable element framed by reverse stockinette borders. The cable incorporates both traditional cable crosses (C6B and C6F) and decorative yarn-over and decrease sequences that create an open, airy quality within the cable structure. The pattern repeats over 12 rows and adds significant visual texture to the garment.
• Garter Stitch: Used as a foundational stitch throughout portions of the garment, providing stability and a classic textured appearance. Garter stitch is created by knitting every row and produces a gauge of 22 stitches and 35 rows per 4 inches when blocked.

Materials and Gauge Information

Successful completion of this project requires careful attention to gauge, as the pattern features multiple stitch patterns with different tension requirements. Garter stitch gauge is 22 stitches and 35 rows over 4 inches when blocked. Cluster Lace pattern gauge is 20 stitches and 29 rows over 4 inches when blocked. The Staked Cable measures approximately 2½ inches wide when blocked. Knitters should use appropriate yarn weight and needle size to achieve these gauges, and always knit and block a gauge swatch before beginning the project. The pattern requires double-pointed needles (dpn) for the applied I-cord finishing, circular needles for I-cord application, and straight needles for the main garment pieces. The cable cast-on method is used to begin the I-cord.

Skill Level

This pattern is rated at an intermediate skill level, making it suitable for knitters with experience in basic techniques who are ready to tackle more complex stitch patterns and construction methods. Familiarity with cables, lace patterns, seaming, and applied finishing techniques is beneficial for successful completion.