Sleeveless Top Knitting Pattern

Sleeveless Top in Noro Tokonatsu

What is Being Made

This is a sleeveless knitted top designed to fit bust measurements of 32-34 inches (81-86cm) or 36-38 inches (91-96cm). The finished garment measures 37 inches (94cm) or 41 inches (104cm) in width and 20 inches (50cm) or 22 inches (55cm) in length. The design features a classic sleeveless construction with shaped armholes and back neck shaping for a tailored fit.

Knitting Techniques Used

This intermediate-level project employs several key knitting techniques to create visual interest and structure:

• Lace patterning using yarn overs and decreases (yrn, yfrn, and P2tog) to create openwork details
• Stockinette stitch (knit on right side facing rows, purl on wrong side facing rows) for the main fabric body
• Garter stitch (knitting every row) for the initial cast-on section
• Armhole shaping through strategic cast-offs and decreases to create fitted sleeve openings
• Back neck and shoulder shaping to provide proper fit across the upper body

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The pattern combines multiple stitch techniques across different sections. The top begins with garter stitch foundation rows, then transitions into a 10-row repeat pattern that alternates between knit and purl stitches in a structured arrangement. This repeat pattern includes decorative lace elements created by yarn forward (yf) and yarn around needle (yrn) techniques paired with decreases like knit two together (K2tog) and purl two together (P2tog). After completing the patterned sections, the garment continues in basic stockinette stitch until the armhole shaping begins.

Materials and Tools

This project requires 190 grams (220 grams for larger size) of Noro Tokonatsu yarn in shade 24. The yarn is worked using two different needle sizes: 3¾mm (US 5) needles for the initial cast-on and garter stitch foundation, and 4mm (US 6) needles for the main pattern sections. The gauge is 17 stitches by 24 rows measured over a 10cm (4 inch) square using the 4mm needles, which is essential for achieving the correct finished measurements.

Pattern Construction Overview

The back piece begins with casting on 79 or 87 stitches depending on size. The construction follows a clear progression: garter stitch foundation rows, followed by multiple repeats of the 10-row lace and texture pattern, then a return to garter stitch before switching to stockinette stitch for the main body. Armhole shaping is achieved by casting off 3 stitches at the beginning of two consecutive rows, followed by decreasing 1 stitch at each end over 9 rows to create fitted armholes. The pattern includes detailed instructions for shaping the back neck and shoulders to complete the garment.