Classic Elite Yarns Florence Jumper Knitting Pattern

Classic Elite Yarns Florence Sleeveless Lace Top

Garment Overview

The Florence is a sleeveless knitted top designed by Cathy Payson, originally published in Fortuna 1603. This intermediate-level project features a flattering A-line silhouette, making it an ideal choice for warm weather layering and wear. Available in six sizes ranging from XS to 2XL, with finished bust measurements from 32½ inches to 55 inches and lengths from 21 inches to 23½ inches.

Construction Techniques

The Florence employs a bottom-up construction method, meaning pieces are knitted starting from the lower edge and working upward toward the shoulders. The garment is worked flat on straight needles rather than in the round, allowing for easier pattern management and shaping. All pieces are subsequently seamed together to create the finished garment. This traditional approach provides excellent stitch definition and makes it simple to incorporate the intricate lace pattern throughout.

Pattern Stitch: Knotted Box

The primary stitch pattern used in the Florence is the Knotted Box, a textured lace motif that repeats over a multiple of 6 stitches plus 5. This eight-row pattern combines knit and purl stitches with strategic yarn overs and centered decreases (k3tog) to create an elegant, openwork design.

• Row 1 (RS): K1, p3, *k3, p3; repeat from * to last st, k1
• Row 2 (WS): P1, k3, *p3, k3; repeat from * to last st, p1
• Row 3: K1, yo, k3tog, yo, *k3, yo, k3tog, yo; repeat from * to last st, k1
• Row 4: Purl
• Row 5: K4, p3, *k3, p3; repeat from * to last 4 sts, k4
• Row 6: P4, k3, *p3, k3; repeat from * to last 4 sts, p4
• Row 7: K4, yo, k3tog, yo, *k3, yo, k3tog, yo; repeat from * to last 4 sts, k4
• Row 8: Purl

The pattern alternates between textured sections and openwork lace rows, creating visual interest and movement throughout the garment. During shaping operations where stitch counts change, any incomplete pattern repeats are worked in stockinette stitch to maintain clean edges and proper fit.

Lace Techniques

The Florence incorporates lace knitting as a core design element. This technique involves strategic use of yarn overs (yarn forward movements that create decorative holes) paired with decreases (k3tog, or knit three stitches together) to maintain stitch count while producing an openwork aesthetic. The yarn overs add airiness and visual lightness, making the garment particularly suitable for warm seasons.

Shaping and Structure

The A-line silhouette is achieved through strategic decreasing at the side seams during the lower body section. The pattern includes a garter stitch border (7 rows of knit stitches) at the cast-on edge, measuring approximately ¾ inch. The main body features decreases worked every 8 rows for 11 repeats, gradually reducing the width and creating the characteristic A-line shape. Armhole shaping involves multiple bind-off rows followed by additional decreases to create proper sleeve cap depth.

Materials and Gauge Information

While specific yarn weight and needle size recommendations are not detailed in the provided pattern excerpt, the Florence is designed for use with Classic Elite Yarns products. The pattern is worked with knitting needles appropriate to the chosen yarn, and the construction method accommodates standard yarn weights suitable for sleeveless garments. Proper gauge is essential for achieving the finished measurements listed.

Skill Level and Pattern Complexity

Rated as an intermediate skill level project, the Florence requires familiarity with fundamental knitting techniques including yarn overs, centered decreases, and the ability to manage pattern repeats while simultaneously executing garment shaping. Knitters should be comfortable