Raddish Top Knitting Pattern

Raddish Top by Lisa Richardson

What Is Being Made

The Raddish Top is a cropped knitted garment designed to fit bust measurements ranging from 81-86 cm to 122-127 cm (32-50 inches). This pattern offers multiple construction options: a cropped round neck version, a cropped V-neck version, a long round neck version, and a long V-neck version. The garment features a contemporary silhouette with careful shaping at the armholes and shoulder seams, making it a versatile addition to a modern knit wardrobe.

Techniques Used

This intermediate-level knitting project employs several key techniques to achieve its finished design. Lace border patterning is integrated into the hem edge using an 8-row repeat, creating decorative detail while maintaining structural integrity. Armhole shaping is accomplished through strategic increases worked at the beginning of rows, with varying frequencies depending on the size being knitted. Shoulder seam shaping involves additional increases to create proper fit and garment drape. The pattern uses stitch markers to maintain pattern placement and guide increases throughout construction. Decreasing techniques are employed for back neck shaping, using slip-stitch decreases (sl 1, K1, psso) to create a refined neckline.

Stitches Used

The Raddish Top utilizes fundamental knitting stitches combined with lace elements. Stockinette stitch (st st) forms the main fabric body, providing a smooth, classic knit surface. Garter stitch appears in the hem edge construction. The 8-row lace border pattern incorporates yarn forwards (yfwd), slip-stitch decreases (sl 1, K1, psso), and knit two together (K2tog) to create openwork texture. Additional stitches include standard knit (K), purl (P), and cast-off techniques worked knitwise to finish edges cleanly.

Materials: Yarn and Needles

The Raddish Top is designed to be knitted using Rowan Denim Revive yarn in 50-gram balls. Yarn requirements vary by version: the cropped round neck version requires 4-7 balls depending on size, the cropped V-neck version requires 4-7 balls, the long round neck version requires 7-11 balls, and the long V-neck version requires 7-11 balls. The pattern is worked on 3¼mm (US 3) needles and 3¾mm (US 5) needles, allowing for proper gauge and fabric control. The photographed samples showcase the versatility of Rowan Denim Revive, with versions shown in Sand 218 and Griege 215 colorways.

Pattern Details

This downloadable PDF pattern from Lisa Richardson provides comprehensive instructions for an intermediate knitter. The pattern includes five different size options with corresponding stitch counts and row instructions. Actual bust measurements of the finished garment range from 94 cm to 132.5 cm (37 to 52¼ inches), allowing for appropriate ease and fit across the size range. The pattern systematically guides knitters through casting on, establishing lace border patterns, shaping armholes, creating shoulder seams, and finishing the back neck with precise decreasing. The structured approach makes this an excellent project for knitters seeking to develop their shaping and lace skills.