Hanne Top Knitting Pattern

Hanne Top by Quail Studio

Garment Overview

The Hanne Top is an advanced beginner knitting pattern designed by Quail Studio and published by Rowan. This downloadable digital pattern creates a fitted, contemporary top suitable for a range of sizes from 28-30 inches to 60-62 inches chest measurement. The garment features a classic construction with ribbed edging and stockinette stitch body, making it an excellent project for knitters developing their skills beyond basic techniques.

Design Features and Construction

The Hanne Top is constructed using a traditional top-down or flat knitting method with distinct front and back panels. The pattern includes side seam openings marked during the ribbed section, adding design interest and potentially providing ventilation or styling variation. The garment is worked in pieces that are later seamed together, allowing for precise shaping and fit adjustments across nine different size options.

Knitting Techniques

• Ribbed Edging: The pattern begins with a 42-row rib section (2 rows to establish the pattern, followed by 40 additional rows) worked on smaller needles to create a snug, elastic edge that frames the neckline and provides structure
• Decreasing: Strategic use of K2tog (knit two together) decreases creates shaping, with multiple decreases worked across a single row to transition from the ribbed section to the body
• Stockinette Stitch: The main body is worked entirely in stockinette stitch (alternating knit and purl rows), creating a smooth, refined fabric suitable for a polished top
• Stitch Markers: Markers are placed at specific points to denote the top of side seam openings, helping knitters track shaping and construction landmarks

Stitches and Stitch Counts

The pattern uses fundamental knitting stitches including knit, purl, and knit two together decreases. Cast-on counts vary by size, ranging from 106 stitches for the smallest size to 214 stitches for the largest, with decreases reducing these counts to between 83 and 165 stitches for the stockinette body section. The ribbed pattern follows a K2, P1 repeat, creating vertical lines that enhance the garment's visual appeal and elasticity.

Yarn and Materials

The Hanne Top is designed to be worked with Rowan Alpaca Haze yarn held double throughout the pattern. Yardage requirements range from 5 balls (25 grams each) for the smallest size to 9 balls for the largest size. The pattern was photographed in the colorway Peony 017, showcasing the yarn's characteristics in a warm, sophisticated tone. Alpaca Haze is a luxury yarn that creates a soft, lightweight fabric ideal for a refined top.

Needles and Tools

• 4mm (US 6) needles: Used for the initial ribbed sections to create tension and elasticity
• 4.5mm (US 7) needles: Used for the main stockinette stitch body to achieve the correct gauge
• 40 cm circular needle in 4mm (US 6): Used for the neckband finishing
• Stitch holders and stitch markers: Essential notions for managing stitches and tracking pattern landmarks

Gauge and Fit

The pattern specifies a gauge of 20 stitches and 24 rows over 10 centimeters when working stockinette stitch with 4.5mm needles and yarn held double. Achieving this gauge is critical for proper fit, as the pattern includes nine size options with actual chest measurements ranging from 83 centimeters (32¾ inches) to 165 centimeters (65 inches). Garment length varies by size, with the front section measuring between 22 and 26 centimeters from the side seam opening markers before additional shaping.

Skill Level Considerations

Classified as advanced beginner, the Hanne Top requires competency with basic stitches, gauge measurement, and seaming techniques. The pattern's straightforward stockinette construction and clear decreasing sequences make it accessible to knitters who have mastered fundamental skills and are ready to tackle garment shaping and multi-piece construction. The use of stitch markers and holders supports knitters in managing the various sections and size options.