Saja Top Knitting Pattern

Saja Top in Berroco Mantra

What Is Being Made

The Saja Top is a pullover garment designed by Amy Christoffers and featured in Berroco Booklet #404. This intermediate-level knitting project creates a fitted top with a shaped neckline, worked seamlessly in the round from the neck down. The finished garment offers multiple size options, with bust measurements ranging from 38 inches to 63 inches and lengths from 22 to 29 inches, providing versatility for different body types and style preferences.

Knitting Techniques Used

The Saja Top employs several advanced knitting techniques suitable for intermediate-level crafters. The garment is worked in the round using circular needles, which creates a seamless construction with minimal finishing required. The neckline is shaped using short rows, a technique that creates shaping without increasing stitch counts dramatically. Yarn overs are incorporated for decorative increases and texture, while wrap and turn (w&t) methods manage the short-row shaping at the yoke. The pattern also includes strategic stitch markers in two different colors to track pattern repeats and construction points, essential for maintaining accuracy in circular knitting.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The Saja Top utilizes fundamental knitting stitches combined for elegant construction. The pattern begins with ribbing (alternating knit and purl stitches) at the neckline to create elasticity and a finished edge. The primary fabric is worked in stockinette stitch (St st), which creates the smooth, classic appearance of the garment body. Yarn overs are strategically placed to create shaping and visual interest throughout the yoke section, while the short-row technique with wrap-and-turn stitches ensures smooth transitions in the neck shaping without visible holes or gaps.

Materials: Yarn and Needles

The Saja Top is designed specifically for Berroco Mantra yarn, a premium fiber choice. Yarn requirements vary by size, ranging from 4 to 9 balls of Berroco Mantra (50 grams per ball), with the sample shown in size 42½ inches using approximately 5 balls in colorway #4433 Toffee. The pattern requires two sets of circular needles: 29-inch needles in both sizes 4 (3.50 mm) and 6 (4.00 mm), and 16-inch needles in the same sizes. The smaller needles are used for ribbed sections to maintain elasticity, while the larger needles accommodate the main fabric. Additional notions include 2 stitch markers in different colors for tracking construction points and waste yarn for holding stitches temporarily during construction.

Gauge and Fit

Achieving the correct gauge is essential for proper fit in the Saja Top. The pattern specifies a gauge of 22 stitches and 28 rounds equals 4 inches in stockinette stitch on the larger needles. Knitters are strongly advised to knit a gauge swatch before beginning the project to ensure accurate finished measurements, as variations in individual tension can significantly affect the final garment dimensions. The pattern is shown with approximately 7 inches of ease, providing comfortable wearing room while maintaining a fitted silhouette.