Paintbox Yarns Tourmaline Tank Knitting Pattern

Paintbox Yarns Tourmaline Tank

What is Being Made

The Tourmaline Tank is a sleeveless knitted top designed as an intermediate-level knitting project. This garment is worked flat on straight needles and seamed together, making it an accessible project for knitters with some experience. The tank features a fitted silhouette with finished back length measurements ranging from 68 to 73 cm (26¾ to 28¾ inches) depending on size, with the front approximately 5 cm (2 inches) shorter. The pattern is available in six sizes to fit bust measurements from 81 cm to 107 cm (32 to 42 inches).

Techniques Used

This pattern employs seamed construction and flat knitting techniques. Rather than being worked in the round, the Tourmaline Tank is knitted flat in separate pieces—typically front and back panels—which are then seamed together. This approach is common in intermediate knitting projects as it allows for easier shaping and finishing while still requiring competent seaming skills. The use of two different needle sizes supports proper gauge control and fabric structure throughout the garment.

Stitches Used

The primary stitch structure is stocking stitch (also called stockinette stitch), which creates the smooth, classic knit fabric characteristic of many fitted garments. Stocking stitch is formed by knitting all stitches on right-side rows and purling all stitches on wrong-side rows. The pattern also incorporates standard shaping techniques including decreasing stitches to create fitted shaping at the armholes and neckline, as indicated by the abbreviation "dec" used throughout the instructions.

Materials: Yarn and Needles

The Tourmaline Tank is designed to be worked with Paintbox Yarns Metallics and Paintbox Cotton DK yarns. The pattern requires 1 ball of Paintbox Yarns Metallics in color A (Sea Breeze) and 4 to 6 balls of Paintbox Cotton DK in color B (Champagne White), depending on the size being knitted. The yarn quantity specifications are based on average requirements and are approximate, so knitters should verify yardage requirements for their specific size.

The pattern calls for 3.75mm (UK 9 – US 5) knitting needles and 4mm (UK 8 – US 6) knitting needles. The 4mm needles are the primary needles used for the main fabric, while the 3.75mm needles are typically used for ribbed edges or cuffs to create a tighter, more elastic finish.

Gauge and Tension

Achieving the correct tension (gauge) is essential for this project. The pattern specifies a gauge of 22 stitches and 30 rows to 10 cm (4 inches) measured over stocking stitch using 4mm (US 6) needles. Knitters are strongly advised to knit a tension swatch at least 13 cm (5 inches) square before beginning the garment, as working to an incorrect tension will result in a finished garment that does not match the intended size and may require more or less yarn than specified.

Pattern Notes

The pattern instructions are written for the smallest size, with variations for larger sizes provided in square brackets. Where only one figure appears without brackets, that instruction applies to all sizes. Repeat instructions are indicated in round brackets with the number of times to repeat specified. Paintbox Yarns recommends using only the specified yarn for this pattern, as substitutions may affect the finished garment's appearance and fit.