Summer Skirt Knitting Pattern

Summer Skirt in Rowan Summerlite 4ply

What is Being Made

This is a knitted summer skirt designed to be worked from the top downwards using circular knitting techniques. The skirt features a fitted waistband with elastic and graduated shaping through strategic increases that create defined side seams. The design is available in nine sizes, ranging from a bust measurement of 71-76 cm (28-30 inches) up to 152-147 cm (60-62 inches), with corresponding hip measurements from 60 cm to 140 cm when laid flat and unstretched. The finished length measures approximately 75-77 cm depending on size.

Techniques Used

The skirt employs circular knitting as its primary construction method, worked continuously in the round using a circular needle. The pattern incorporates make one (M1) increases positioned at marked stitch locations to create shaped side seams. These increases are strategically timed—occurring on 4th rounds initially, then transitioning to 6th rounds, followed by 8th and 10th rounds—to create a gradual, flattering silhouette. The waistband is created using an elastic threading method, where a 2.5 cm wide elastic is inserted through the ribbed waistband opening and secured by overlapping and stitching the ends. The pattern also requires stitch markers to track the side seam positions throughout the knitting process.

Stitches Used

The primary stitch structure is rib, which provides the skirt with significant stretch and elasticity. According to the pattern notes, the rib is described as very stretchy, meaning the skirt may appear smaller when laid flat unstretched but will expand considerably during wear. The ribbed fabric is maintained throughout the body of the skirt, with increases worked into the rib pattern as the shaping progresses. This consistent stitch choice creates a comfortable, form-fitting garment that moves with the wearer.

Materials

The skirt is knitted using Rowan Summerlite 4ply yarn, a lightweight four-ply weight yarn supplied in 50-gram balls. The yardage required varies by size, ranging from 5 balls for the smallest size (71-76 cm bust) to 10 balls for the largest size (152-147 cm bust). The pattern was photographed in two colorways: Seashell 437 and Touch of Gold 439. Knitting is worked on a 3½mm (US 4) circular needle measuring no more than 60-140 cm in length depending on the size being made. Additional materials include stitch markers for tracking increases and a length of 2.5 cm wide elastic cut to fit snugly around the wearer's waist with a 2.5 cm overlap allowance for securing.

Tension and Fit Notes

The pattern specifies a tension of 32 stitches and 34 rounds to 10 cm (4 inches) measured over rib in the unstretched state using a 3½mm circular needle. The pattern includes an important note that the rib is very stretchy, and although the skirt may appear too small when laid flat and unstretched, it will stretch significantly to fit during wear, making accurate tension measurement essential for proper fit.