Debbie Bliss Dunbar Knitting Pattern

Debbie Bliss Dunbar Knitted Top

What is Being Made

The Debbie Bliss Dunbar is an intermediate-level knitted top designed to fit bust sizes ranging from 82cm to 107cm (32 to 42 inches). This garment features a finished bust measurement between 87cm and 119cm (34¼ to 47 inches) with a length to shoulder of 45 to 50cm (17¾ to 19¾ inches), making it a versatile piece suitable for various body types and proportions.

Techniques Used

This knitting pattern employs seamed construction with pieces worked flat on straight needles, a traditional approach that allows for easier colorwork integration and precise shaping. The garment is constructed in separate pieces—back, front, and sleeves—that are subsequently seamed together. The pattern incorporates chart-based colorwork, requiring knitters to follow a detailed chart while working in the round or flat, using the technique of intarsia or stranded colorwork where separate balls of yarn are maintained for each color area. This method involves twisting yarn on the wrong side of the work to prevent holes and maintain fabric integrity.

Stitches Used

The primary stitch structure is stocking stitch (stockinette stitch), which creates a smooth, classic fabric with knit stitches on the right side and purl stitches on the wrong side. The garment begins with ribbing, specifically a 1x1 rib (alternating knit one, purl one), which provides elasticity and a finished edge at the lower body. The pattern utilizes knit and purl stitches as foundational elements, with shaping achieved through strategic increases and decreases, including casting on stitches at armhole positions and casting off stitches for shoulder shaping.

Materials and Specifications

The Debbie Bliss Dunbar is worked in Debbie Bliss Baby Cashmerino, a luxurious blend yarn available in multiple colorways. The main color is Camel 102 (M), requiring 6 to 7 balls of 50g each depending on size selection. Accent colors include Sienna 67 (A), Ecru 101 (B), Mink 64 (C), and Chocolate 11 (D), each requiring one 50g ball. The pattern calls for two pairs of knitting needles: 2.75mm (US 2) needles for the ribbed sections and 3.25mm (US 3) needles for the main fabric. The gauge is established at 25 stitches and 34 rows to 10cm (4 inches) over pattern using the 3.25mm (US 3) needles, making accurate gauge measurement essential for proper fit.

Pattern Notes

When working from the provided chart, odd-numbered rows are knit rows and should be read from right to left, while even-numbered rows are purl rows read from left to right. This directional reading is standard for flat knitting and ensures correct colorwork placement. The pattern emphasizes the importance of using separate balls of yarn for each distinct color area and twisting the yarn on the wrong side of the work to prevent holes—a critical technique in intarsia colorwork. Armhole shaping is achieved by casting on 5 stitches at the beginning of the next 2 rows, and shoulder shaping involves casting off 10 to 15 stitches (depending on size) at the beginning of 6 consecutive rows, with remaining stitches held on a spare needle for neckline finishing.