String Penelope Top Jumper Knitting Pattern

String Penelope Top

Garment Overview

The Penelope Top is a sophisticated knitted pullover sweater designed by Lidia Karabinech. This garment is crafted using a combination of knit and lace techniques to create an elegant, refined silhouette. The top features a delicate lace pattern integrated throughout the body, offering a modern aesthetic suitable for layering or wearing as a standalone piece. Available in four sizes ranging from Small to Extra Large, with finished bust measurements from 36½ inches to 50 inches, the Penelope Top accommodates various body types while maintaining its elegant proportions.

Construction Techniques

The Penelope Top is worked flat on straight needles, meaning pieces are knitted in rows rather than in the round, allowing for greater control over shaping and pattern placement. The garment uses seamed construction, where individual pieces—front, back, and sleeves—are knitted separately and then sewn together using a yarn needle. This traditional approach provides clean, professional finishing and allows for precise stitch placement in the lace pattern sections. The neckband is worked in the round using a circular needle to create a seamless, finished edge at the neck opening.

Stitches and Pattern Details

The Penelope Top employs several key stitching techniques to achieve its distinctive appearance. The garment features 1x1 ribbing worked in rows for the body sections and in rounds for the neckband, creating elastic, fitted areas that provide structure and recovery. The primary visual element is the Lace Pattern, a 20-stitch repeat that incorporates yarn overs (yo), decreases (k2tog, ssk, p3tog, sk2psso), and stockinette knit sections to create an openwork design with decorative motifs. The lace pattern is worked over multiple repeats—five complete repeats for the finished length—creating a cohesive, flowing design element throughout the garment. Increases are strategically placed using yarn overs within the lace pattern to shape the garment while maintaining visual continuity.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The Penelope Top is designed to be knitted with String BREEZE yarn, a luxurious blend comprising 20% cashmere, 20% silk, and 60% cotton. This fiber combination creates a garment with exceptional drape, breathability, and softness. The yarn is supplied in balls of 1.75 ounces (50 grams) with a yardage of 136 yards per 125 meters. Yarn requirements vary by size: Size S requires 7 balls, Size M requires 8 balls, Size L requires 9 balls, and Size XL requires 10 balls. The sample shown is knitted in color 200943 blush, a neutral, versatile shade.

Needles and Tools

The Penelope Top requires multiple needle sizes to achieve proper gauge and construction. Size 6 (4mm) needles are used for ribbed sections, which create the elastic, fitted edges. Size 7 (4.5mm) needles are used for the main lace pattern sections, or size as needed to obtain proper gauge. A Size 6 (4.5mm) circular needle measuring 16 inches (40cm) is required for working the neckband in the round. Additional tools include stitch holders for securing stitches during construction and a yarn needle for seaming pieces together and weaving in ends.

Gauge and Sizing

Achieving the correct gauge is essential for this project. The pattern specifies a gauge of 24 stitches and 28 rows over 4 inches (10cm) when working the Lace Stitch with the larger size needles. The sample garment shown is Size Medium with a finished bust measurement of 41 inches (104cm) and a length to shoulder of 23½ inches (59.5cm). Knitters are strongly advised to knit a gauge swatch and measure carefully before beginning the project, as variations in gauge will significantly affect the finished garment dimensions and fit.

Pattern Structure

The Penelope Top follows a structured pattern progression that begins with ribbed sections and transitions into the lace pattern. The pattern includes size-specific instructions for increases, with detailed row-by-row guidance for each size (S, M, L, XL). The lace pattern is presented in both written row-by-row format and chart form, allowing knitters to follow their preferred method. The garment is worked until it reaches the specified length of 23½ inches, at which point stitches are placed on holders for the shoulders, preparing for neckband attachment. The pattern includes precise stitch counts at each stage to help knitters verify their progress and catch any errors early.