Shibui Knits Nova Jumper Knitting Pattern

Shibui Knits Nova Sleeveless Tunic

What is Being Made

The Nova is a sleeveless tunic designed by Shellie Anderson, featuring an elegant high-low hemline with side slits and a low collar. This intermediate-level knitting project creates an elongated, refined garment suitable for layering or wearing as a standalone piece. The tunic is available in seven sizes ranging from XS to XXL, with finished bust circumferences from 36 inches to 52 inches, making it adaptable for various body types and fit preferences.

Techniques Used

The Nova employs a bottom-up construction method, where the garment pieces are knitted starting from the lower edges and progressing upward toward the shoulders. The pattern is worked flat on straight needles in individual pieces—the back, front, and collar components are each created separately before being seamed together to form the finished tunic. This approach allows for precise shaping of armholes and neckline. The collar is picked up around the neck edge after the body pieces are joined, then worked flat to create a balanced, low neckline that complements the elongated silhouette. A 3-Needle Bind-Off technique is utilized during construction for secure seaming.

Stitches and Stitch Details

The primary stitch used throughout Nova is Stockinette Stitch (St st), which creates a smooth, classic fabric with a flat appearance. This foundational stitch is complemented by simple ribbed edging that runs strategically along the sides and armhole edges, providing definition and structure to the garment. The ribbed detailing helps define the high-low hem and emphasizes the side slits, adding visual interest and preventing edges from curling. A slipped stitch edging technique is employed for a refined selvage finish on the side edges.

Materials and Tools

The Nova is designed to be knitted with Shibui Knits Rain, a 100% cotton yarn that offers breathability and a refined drape ideal for a tunic silhouette. The yardage requirement is 810 to 1,215 yards total, depending on size, with projects using between 6 to 9 skeins of the 135-yard, 50-gram balls. The pattern shown is worked in the Ash colorway. Knitting needles required include Size 5 (3.75 mm) 16-inch circular needles for the ribbed collar and Size 7 (4.5 mm) needles for the main body pieces, with a spare Size 7 needle needed for the 3-Needle Bind-Off. Additional tools include removable stitch markers, stitch holders for managing live stitches, and a tapestry needle for seaming and weaving in ends.

Gauge and Finished Dimensions

The pattern is worked to a gauge of 21 stitches and 30 rows over 4 inches in Stockinette Stitch after blocking, using one strand of Rain yarn on Size 7 needles. Achieving proper gauge is essential for obtaining the intended finished dimensions. Back length from shoulder ranges from 28.5 to 30.5 inches depending on size, while front length from shoulder measures 24.5 to 26.5 inches, creating the distinctive high-low hemline. The back hem is intentionally longer than the front, with side slits providing movement and visual appeal.