Joni Top Knitting Pattern

Joni Top in Berroco Liana

What is Being Made

The Joni Top is an intermediate-level knitted garment designed by Donna Yacino. This pullover top features a classic construction with finished bust measurements ranging from 32 inches to 68 inches (81.5 cm to 172.5 cm), accommodating multiple size options. The garment length varies from approximately 23 inches to 26 inches (58.5 cm to 66 cm) depending on size selection. The pattern is shown in a size 36 inch bust (91.5 cm) and is designed with 2–4 inches (5–10 cm) of positive ease for a comfortable, relaxed fit.

Knitting Techniques Used

This intermediate knitting project employs several fundamental and intermediate techniques to create visual interest and structure. The pattern utilizes reverse stockinette stitch as the primary fabric base, which creates a textured, bumpy surface that serves as the foundation for the front of the garment and portions of the back. The design incorporates yarn overs and decreases to create decorative lace-like elements within the pattern stitch. Slip stitches are worked with yarn held in back (wyib) to create subtle texture and visual definition. The pattern includes two-together decreases (p2tog) and slip-slip-purl decreases (SSP or p2tog tbl) to shape the garment while maintaining pattern integrity. Knitters will also work with stitch markers to track pattern repeats and a stitch holder for managing stitches during construction. The top is constructed using circular knitting needles, allowing for seamless or nearly seamless construction.

Stitches Used

• Reverse Stockinette Stitch (Reverse St st): The primary stitch used throughout the front and as the base for the back. This creates the characteristic bumpy texture that contrasts with the pattern stitch.
• Pattern Stitch: A multiple of 6 stitches plus 1, worked only on the back of the sweater. This stitch repeats over 8 rows and combines knit, purl, slip stitches, yarn overs, and decreases to create a sophisticated textured pattern.
• Yarn Overs (yo): Used in rows 3 and 7 of the pattern stitch to create decorative openings and lace-like effects.
• Knit Stitches (k): Standard knit stitches form the foundation of the pattern.
• Purl Stitches (p): Purl stitches create the reverse stockinette texture and are integral to the pattern stitch structure.
• Slip Stitches (sl 1 wyib): Slipped stitches worked with yarn held in back add texture and visual interest without creating additional height.
• Decreases (p2tog, p2tog tbl/SSP): Two-stitch decreases used for shaping and maintaining pattern alignment. The pattern notes that when insufficient stitches remain for a complete yarn over and decrease pair, knitters should work extra stitches in reverse stockinette stitch instead.

Materials: Yarn and Needles

The Joni Top is designed to be knitted with Berroco Liana yarn, a specific yarn weight and fiber blend from Berroco, Inc. The pattern calls for (4, 5, 6) [6, 7, 7, 8] {9, 9, 10} hanks of Berroco Liana, with each hank weighing 50 grams. The colorway shown is #8272 Orchid. Berroco Liana is the recommended yarn for this pattern to ensure proper gauge and finished measurements.

Knitting needles required include size 6 / 4 mm needles for the main fabric, with a 16-inch (40 cm) circular needle in size 6 / 4 mm also needed for construction. Knitters should select needles that allow them to achieve the specified gauge. Additional notions include 2 stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats and shaping points, and 1 stitch holder for temporarily securing stitches during construction.

Gauge

Achieving proper gauge is essential for this project. The pattern specifies 21 stitches and 32 rows equals