Khalifa Shell Top Knitting Pattern

Khalifa Shell Top in Juniper Moon Farm Findley DK

What is Being Made

The Khalifa Shell Top is a sleeveless knit garment designed by Pamela Wynne as part of the Uptown Collection. This shell top is available in eight sizes ranging from XS to 4X, with finished bust measurements from 30 inches (76 cm) to 58½ inches (148.5 cm). The garment features a center front length of approximately 23½ to 27 inches (59.5 to 68.5 cm), with the back extending 3 inches (7.5 cm) longer for a flattering silhouette.

Techniques Used

This knitting project employs several intermediate techniques to create visual interest and texture. The pattern utilizes drop stitch construction, a decorative technique that creates openwork details by intentionally dropping stitches to form elongated loops and eyelet patterns. The garment is worked using circular needles in the round, which allows for seamless construction and even stitch distribution. Short-row shaping is incorporated, indicated by wrap-and-turn abbreviations (w&t), to create custom fit and contoured shaping at the shoulders and armholes. The pattern also includes decreasing techniques such as knit 2 together (k2tog) and slip, slip, knit (ssk) to shape the garment edges and create proper fit across multiple sizes.

Stitches Used

• Stockinette Stitch (St st): The primary stitch used throughout the main body of the shell, creating a smooth, classic knit fabric with a flat appearance on the right side.
• Drop Stitch Pattern: A specialty stitch worked flat that creates an open, textured design. This pattern is worked over six rows, alternating between knit rows and a row featuring yarn overs (yo twice) that are deliberately dropped on the following row, creating elongated loops and decorative eyelet effects.
• Garter Stitch: Used in the drop stitch pattern rows and for finishing edges, created by knitting every row.
• Yarn Overs (yo): Used to create openwork and lace-like details within the drop stitch pattern.
• Decreases: Knit 2 together (k2tog) and slip, slip, knit (ssk) are used for shaping the armholes and shoulders.

Materials and Gauge

The Khalifa Shell Top is knitted using Juniper Moon Farm Findley DK yarn in color #22 Grey. The yardage requirements vary by size, ranging from 6 balls for the smallest size (XS) to 13 balls for the largest size (4X). Findley DK is a worsted-weight yarn that provides excellent stitch definition and drape.

The pattern requires two sizes of circular needles: US 5 (3.75mm) needles for the main body worked in Stockinette Stitch, and US 4 (3.5mm) circular and double-pointed needles for ribbing and the drop stitch pattern sections. The gauge is 23 stitches and 30 rows over 4 inches (10 cm) in Stockinette Stitch using the larger needles, and 23 stitches and 24 rows over 4 inches (10 cm) in the Drop Stitch Pattern using the smaller needles. Additional notions include a tapestry needle for weaving in ends and stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats and construction points.

Construction Overview

The shell is constructed beginning at the shoulders, with the garment worked downward using circular needles to create a seamless piece. The drop stitch pattern creates decorative openwork sections that add visual interest and breathability to the design, making it suitable for layering or warm-weather wear. The short-row shaping ensures proper fit across the shoulders and neckline, while the decreases at the armholes create a flattering silhouette that tapers appropriately for each size.