Sitwell Top Knitting Pattern

Sitwell Top in Berroco Modern Linen

What is Being Made

The Sitwell Top is a knitted short-sleeved tee designed by Åsa Buchta. This intermediate-level garment is constructed in separate pieces and then seamed together. The finished top offers a range of sizes from extra small through 3X, with bust measurements ranging from 40½ inches (103 cm) to 72½ inches (184 cm), and length measurements from 21¼ inches (54 cm) to 24 inches (61 cm). The pattern recommends approximately 6–14 inches (15–35 cm) of positive ease for a comfortable fit.

Knitting Techniques Used

This intermediate knitting project employs fundamental techniques including casting on, seaming pieces together, and working with stitch markers to track progress. The construction method involves knitting the back, front, and sleeves as separate components before joining them with a tapestry needle. Knitters will also need to manage gauge carefully, as the pattern specifies that gauge should be measured after blocking to ensure accurate finished measurements. The pattern uses waste yarn to temporarily hold stitches during construction.

Stitches Used

The Sitwell Top features two primary stitch patterns that work together to create visual interest:

• Seed Stitch: A textured stitch worked over an odd number of stitches by alternating knit and purl stitches (K1, P1) across each row. This creates a bumpy, reversible fabric with visual texture.
• Stockinette Stitch (St st): The smooth, classic stitch created by knitting all stitches on right-side rows and purling all stitches on wrong-side rows.

These stitches are combined in a Stripe Sequence that repeats throughout the garment: 12 rows of Seed Stitch followed by 24 rows of Stockinette Stitch, creating a 36-row repeat pattern. This stripe sequence measures approximately 4 inches (10 cm) in height after blocking.

Materials: Yarn and Needles

The Sitwell Top is designed to be knitted with Berroco Modern Linen, a yarn that provides a beautiful drape and structure ideal for warm-weather garments. The yardage requirements vary by size, ranging from 3 hanks (for the smallest size) to 6 hanks (for the largest sizes), with each hank weighing 100 grams. The color shown in the pattern is #11375 Terracotta.

Knitters should use US size 5 (3.75 mm) knitting needles or the size needed to obtain the correct gauge. The pattern specifies a gauge of 20 stitches and 35 rows over 4 inches (10 cm) in Stockinette Stitch, and 36 rows of the Stripe Sequence measuring approximately 4 inches (10 cm). Additional notions required include removable stitch markers, waste yarn for holding stitches, and a tapestry needle for seaming.