Make it Knitting Pattern

Make it Moss Stitch Tank Top - Free Knitting Pattern

Project Overview

This intermediate-level knitting pattern creates a sleeveless tank top using the classic moss stitch technique. The garment is designed to be made with Paintbox Yarns Ombré Aran Wool Touch yarn in the Pink Desert colorway, offering a sophisticated textured finish suitable for various seasons and styling occasions.

What is Being Made

The project is a moss stitch tank top — a sleeveless pullover garment that combines comfort with visual texture. The pattern is available in seven sizes to fit chest measurements ranging from 32-34 inches (81-86 cm) up to 56-58 inches (142-147 cm), with finished chest measurements from 39½ inches (100 cm) to 63 inches (160 cm). This versatile piece can be worn as a standalone summer layer or as a base under other garments.

Knitting Techniques Used

The primary construction technique featured in this pattern is moss stitch, also known as Irish moss stitch. This fundamental textured stitch creates a dense, fabric-like appearance by alternating knit and purl stitches in a specific sequence. Moss stitch is worked over two rows, with the pattern reversed on alternate rows to create the characteristic bumpy texture. This stitch is ideal for tank tops as it provides structure and drape without requiring complex shaping.

The pattern employs standard knitting construction methods including flat knitting using straight needles for the main body pieces, combined with circular needle work for finishing elements such as necklines and armholes. Decreasing techniques are incorporated to shape the garment at the shoulders and sides, using methods such as knit two together (k2tog) and slip, slip, knit (ssk) decreases.

Stitches Used

• Moss Stitch (American/Irish Moss Stitch): The foundational stitch throughout the garment, created by alternating knit and purl stitches to form a textured, reversible fabric
• Knit Stitch (k): The basic stitch used in combination with purl stitches to create the moss stitch pattern
• Purl Stitch (p): The complementary stitch that, when alternated with knit stitches, produces the moss stitch texture
• Knit Two Together (k2tog): A right-leaning decrease used for shaping the garment
• Slip, Slip, Knit (ssk): A left-leaning decrease technique employed for balanced shaping

Materials Required

Yarn: The pattern calls for Paintbox Yarns Ombré Aran Wool Touch in Pink Desert. Yarn quantities vary by size, ranging from 3 balls for the smallest size (32-34 inches) to 5 balls for the largest sizes (52-58 inches). Each ball weighs 3½ ounces (100 grams). The Ombré Aran Wool Touch is an aran-weight yarn, which provides excellent stitch definition for textured stitches like moss stitch. Paintbox Yarns specifies that this yarn is their recommended fiber for this pattern, and substituting alternative yarns may affect the finished garment's appearance and fit.

Needles and Notions: The pattern requires US 9 (5.5mm) knitting needles for the main fabric, with a gauge of 16 stitches and 26 rows measured over 4 inches (10 centimeters) of moss stitch. For finishing edges and working in the round, a US 9 (5.5mm) circular knitting needle measuring 16 inches (40 centimeters) is needed. Additional notions include 2 stitch holders for securing stitches during construction.

Pattern Notes

Instructions are provided in American knitting terminology with British terminology included in parentheses for international knitters. The pattern is written for the smallest size with modifications for larger sizes given in round brackets throughout. Yarn quantities are approximate and based on average requirements. The pattern is intended for personal use only and should not be reproduced or made for commercial resale purposes.