Mini Formentor Top Knitting Pattern

Mini Formentor Top in Rowan Handknit Cotton

What is Being Made

The Mini Formentor Top is a children's knitted garment designed by Quails Studio, available in five size options to fit ages 2–4, 4–6, 7–8, 9–10, and 11–12 years. The finished garment features an actual chest measurement ranging from 69.5 cm to 90.5 cm (27¼ to 35¾ inches) depending on the chosen size. This top includes a zip opening at the front, making it practical for young wearers, and features a collar detail created from held stitches at the neckline.

Knitting Techniques Used

This intermediate-level knitting project employs several key techniques to construct the garment. The pattern uses stockinette stitch as the primary fabric, worked flat on straight needles. Shaping is achieved through strategic decreases at the armholes, worked at each end of rows over multiple rows and alternate rows to create a fitted sleeve cap. Shoulder shaping is accomplished through stepped cast-offs, reducing stitches in stages to create a properly proportioned shoulder line. The front features a divided construction for the zip opening, with each side of the neck worked separately after the division point. Collar stitches are held on stitch holders during body construction and are worked afterward, a common technique for creating neat neckline finishes. The pattern also references a stripe sequence, indicating color work is incorporated into the design.

Stitches and Stitch Details

The primary stitch used throughout the Mini Formentor Top is stockinette stitch (knit on right-side rows, purl on wrong-side rows), which creates a smooth, classic fabric. The pattern specifies a tension of 19 stitches and 28 rows to 10 centimeters when measured over stockinette stitch using 4mm needles. Shaping is created using knit decreases at armholes and shoulders. The collar is constructed from stitches left on holders: 24–32 stitches depending on size are retained at the back neck, while each front neck section holds 12–16 stitches. These held stitches are later worked to create the finished collar detail.

Materials: Yarn, Needles, and Notions

The Mini Formentor Top is designed to be knitted in Rowan Handknit Cotton, a natural fiber yarn supplied in 50-gram balls. The pattern calls for two colorways: Ecru (color 251) and Forest (color 370). Yardage requirements vary by size, ranging from 3 to 5 balls of Ecru and 1 to 2 balls of Forest depending on which size is being made. Needles required include one pair of 3.5mm (US 4) needles for ribbing or edging and one pair of 4mm (US 6) needles for the main fabric. Additional notions include stitch holders for holding stitches during construction and a 15–20 centimeter zip (depending on size) to close the front opening. The downloadable PDF format allows knitters to print and reference the pattern while working.