Emil Top Knitting Pattern

Emil Top in MODE at Rowan Cotton DK

What is Being Made

The Emil Top is a knitted garment designed by Quail Studio, available in nine sizes ranging from 71-76 cm (28-30 in) chest to 152-157 cm (60-62 in) chest. This intermediate-level knitting project creates a fitted top with shaping at the armholes and neckline, suitable for a range of body measurements and fit preferences.

Yarn and Materials

This pattern uses Cotton DK yarn in a weight of 50 grams per ball. The yardage requirements vary by size, ranging from 5 balls for the smallest size to 11 balls for the largest size. The photographed sample is worked in Denim 014, a classic blue colorway. The pattern requires one pair of 3.75mm (US 5) needles as the primary tool for construction. Additional notions include stitch holders and optional stitch markers to assist with pattern repeat placement.

Techniques and Construction

The Emil Top employs several intermediate knitting techniques throughout its construction. The garment is worked primarily in a stitch pattern that creates texture and visual interest across the fabric. Armhole shaping is achieved through strategic cast-offs at the beginning of rows followed by decreases worked at each end of subsequent rows, maintaining pattern continuity throughout the shaping process. The pattern notes indicate that when working shaping through the stitch pattern, edge stitches are worked in stockinette stitch where there are insufficient stitches to complete a full pattern repeat, ensuring clean edges and professional finishing.

The construction method involves counting stitches after specific pattern rows to ensure accuracy, as the stitch count varies during pattern repeats. Stitch markers are recommended for placement between pattern repeats to assist knitters in tracking their progress and maintaining pattern alignment.

Stitches Used

• Knit (K) – the fundamental stitch creating the base fabric
• Purl (P) – used in ribbed sections and pattern rows for texture variation
• Yarn forward (yfwd) – creates deliberate openings and lace-like elements within the pattern
• Knit two together (K2tog) – a right-leaning decrease used for shaping and pattern definition
• Slip one, knit one, pass slipped stitch over (sl 1, K1, psso) – a left-leaning decrease used for balanced shaping and pattern work
• Stockinette stitch (st st) – smooth fabric used for edge stitches during shaping
• Ribbed pattern – created with alternating knit and purl stitches (K2, P2 repeat) for elasticity and structure

Tension and Fit

Achieving the correct tension is critical for this project. The pattern specifies a tension of 2 pattern repeats (30 stitches) to 12 centimeters and 30 rows to 10 centimeters, measured over the stitch pattern using 3.75mm (US 5) needles. Accurate tension ensures the garment achieves the intended chest measurements, which range from 89.5 cm (35¼ in) for the smallest size to 171 cm (67¼ in) for the largest size.

Pattern Structure

The Emil Top follows a traditional top-down construction approach. The back panel is cast on with a stitch count appropriate to the chosen size and worked in the established stitch pattern. After the back reaches the specified length (ranging from 27 to 31 centimeters depending on size), armhole shaping begins. The pattern maintains stitch pattern continuity throughout shaping, with edge stitches worked in stockinette where necessary. The garment continues until the armhole reaches its full depth before finishing.

This intermediate project combines fundamental knitting skills with pattern complexity, making it suitable for knitters with prior experience who are ready to work with texture patterns and multiple shaping techniques simultaneously.