Reese Top Jumper Knitting Pattern

Reese Top in Berroco Remix Light

What is Being Made

The Reese Top is a knitted sweater designed by Donna Yacino, available in nine sizes ranging from 37 inches to 69 inches in bust measurement. This intermediate-level knitting project creates a finished garment with a length ranging from 23 inches to 26 inches, depending on size selection. The design features a classic top silhouette with positive ease of approximately 4 to 6 inches, allowing for comfortable wearing room over a base layer.

Knitting Techniques Used

This pattern employs several fundamental knitting techniques appropriate for intermediate-level crafters. The construction begins with a garter stitch border created by knitting 5 rows, which provides a finished edge and prevents curling. The garment features raglan armhole shaping, a classic construction method where decreases are worked symmetrically to create diagonal lines from the underarm to the neckline. The pattern incorporates both stockinette stitch and a decorative pattern stitch, demonstrating the knitter's ability to work between different stitch patterns while maintaining consistent gauge and tension.

Stitches and Pattern Details

The Reese Top utilizes a multi-row pattern stitch that repeats over 8 rows and works across a multiple of 5 stitches plus 2. This pattern stitch combines essential knitting techniques including:

• Knit stitches (k) and purl stitches (p) for basic fabric construction
• Yarn overs (yo) that create decorative eyelet holes throughout the fabric
• Knit two together (k2tog) and purl two together (p2tog) decreases that balance the yarn overs and maintain stitch count
• Stockinette stitch (St st) worked in the round and flat for the main body sections

The pattern stitch creates a lacy, textured appearance with a rhythmic repeat of decreases and yarn overs. After the initial 5-row garter stitch border, knitters work 16 rows (2 complete repeats) of the pattern stitch before transitioning to stockinette stitch for the remainder of the garment body.

Materials: Yarn and Needles

Yarn: The Reese Top is designed for Berroco Remix Light, a yarn produced by Berroco, Inc. The pattern calls for 2 to 3 balls of yarn depending on size, with each ball weighing 100 grams. The sample shown is knitted in #6971 Cameo Pink. Berroco Remix Light is specifically recommended for this pattern to ensure proper gauge and finished measurements.

Needles and Notions: The pattern requires US size 5 (3.75 mm) knitting needles for the main fabric, or the size needed to obtain the specified gauge. A 24-inch circular needle in US size 4 (3.5 mm) is also required, likely for neckline or ribbing work. The pattern calls for 2 stitch markers to help track pattern repeats and shaping points throughout construction.

Gauge and Finishing

Achieving the correct gauge is essential for this project. The pattern specifies 20 stitches and 26 rows equal 4 inches (10 cm) in stockinette stitch and pattern stitch. Knitters are strongly advised to knit and measure a gauge swatch before beginning the garment to ensure accurate finished measurements and proper fit. The pattern emphasizes that taking time to check gauge will save time during construction and ensure the garment meets the intended dimensions.