Debbie Bliss Odetta Boxy Top Knitting Pattern

Debbie Bliss Odetta Boxy Top

What Is Being Made

The Odetta Boxy Top is an intermediate-level knitted garment designed as a relaxed, contemporary boxy silhouette. This top features a straightforward construction with a generous fit across the chest, making it suitable for layering or wearing as a standalone piece. The design includes set-in sleeves and incorporates contrasting color blocking through the use of two complementary yarn colors in a structured layout.

Garment Specifications

The Odetta Boxy Top is available in seven size options, ranging from chest measurements of 81–86 cm (32–34 inches) through to 142–147 cm (56–58 inches). The finished chest width varies from 121 cm (47¾ inches) in the smallest size to 181 cm (71¼ inches) in the largest. Total length measurements range from 57 cm (22¼ inches) to 67 cm (26¼ inches), with sleeve length set at 24 cm (9½ inches) across all sizes. The boxy construction is achieved through a straight-cut back and front panels paired with set-in sleeves.

Knitting Techniques and Construction

This intermediate project employs several fundamental knitting techniques suitable for knitters with developing skills. The garment begins with a mock rib edging worked over the first rows of the back and front pieces, creating a neat, finished edge. The main body is constructed using stocking stitch (stockinette stitch in US terminology), the most common knit fabric that produces a smooth, uniform surface. The pattern includes pocket linings that are worked separately and integrated into the garment structure, adding both functional and design interest. Color blocking is achieved by working sections in different yarn colors—primarily Baby Pink with Burnt Orange accents—allowing for creative personalization within the pattern framework.

Stitches Used

• Knit (k): The fundamental stitch forming the primary fabric
• Purl (p): Used in the mock rib edging to create textural variation
• Stocking stitch (st st): The primary stitch pattern for the body, worked in alternating knit and purl rows
• Slip stitch (sl): Used in decrease sequences
• Slip, knit, pass slipped stitch over (skpo): A left-leaning decrease technique
• Mock rib: A simplified ribbed edge created by alternating knit and purl stitches in single rows

Materials and Yarn Requirements

The Odetta Boxy Top is designed to be worked in Debbie Bliss Cashmerino Aran, a premium yarn blend combining cashmere and merino wool for softness and durability. Yarn quantities are approximate and based on average requirements, varying by size. The smallest size requires 6 balls of 50g (1¾ oz) in Baby Pink 603 (color A) and 4 balls in Burnt Orange 48 (color B), while the largest size requires 11 balls of Baby Pink and 7 balls of Burnt Orange. This aran-weight yarn is ideal for creating a fabric with good drape and structure suitable for a boxy silhouette.

Needles and Gauge

The pattern calls for 4.5mm (US 7) knitting needles for the ribbed edging and two pairs of 5mm (US 8) knitting needles for the main body and pocket linings. The working gauge is 18 stitches and 24 rows to a 10 cm (4 inch) square over stocking stitch using 5mm (US 8) needles. Achieving the correct gauge is essential for obtaining the proper finished measurements and fit of the garment. Knitters should always work a gauge swatch before beginning the project and adjust needle sizes if necessary to match the specified tension.

Pattern Structure

The pattern provides detailed instructions for the back panel, front panel, and pocket linings, with the back and front pieces worked using the same foundational techniques. The mock rib edging is worked first, establishing the finished edge and providing structure. The pattern then transitions to stocking stitch for the main body, with specific row counts and measurements provided for each size. Pocket linings are constructed separately using the larger needles and color B yarn, then incorporated into the garment during assembly. The pattern uses standard knitting abbreviations and includes measurements in both metric and imperial units for international accessibility.