Tahki Yarns Dazzling Mesh Top Knitting Pattern

Tahki Yarns Dazzling Mesh Top

What is Being Made

The Dazzling Mesh Top is a lightweight, open-stitch knitted garment designed by Monika MacDougall. This intermediate-level project creates a sleeveless or short-sleeved top with a sophisticated mesh construction, available in six sizes ranging from Small to 3X. The finished garment features a relaxed fit with bust measurements from 34 inches (Small) to 54 inches (3X) and lengths ranging from 23 to 27½ inches depending on size.

Techniques Used

This pattern employs a bottom-up construction method, meaning the knitter begins at the lower edge and works upward toward the neckline. The garment is worked flat on straight needles rather than in the round, and pieces are subsequently seamed together during finishing. The construction includes raglan shaping, a classic armhole technique where decreases are worked symmetrically to create diagonal seam lines from the underarm to the neckline, providing an elegant and flattering fit.

Stitches Used

The pattern incorporates two primary stitch patterns:

• Garter Stitch: Created by knitting every row, this foundational stitch produces a textured, reversible fabric. In this pattern, Garter stitch is used for the lower ribbing section (20 rows) and forms the structural base before transitioning to the main mesh pattern.
• Mesh Stitch: The signature stitch of this garment, worked over a multiple of 4 stitches. Mesh stitch is created by alternating yarn overs (yo) with purl two together decreases (p2tog) across the row. This creates an open, lacy fabric with a sophisticated drape. Row 1 (right side) is worked as K2, *yo, p2tog; repeat from * to last 2 sts, k2, while Row 2 (wrong side) is P2, *yo, p2tog; repeat from * to last 2 sts, p2. These two rows are repeated throughout the body of the garment to create the characteristic mesh appearance.

Gauge and Measurements

Achieving proper gauge is essential for this project. The pattern specifies that 16 stitches and 32 rows should measure 4 inches (10 cm) when worked in Mesh stitch. Knitters are advised to take time to check gauge before beginning, as variations will affect the final garment dimensions.

Materials

This project uses Tahki Yarns COTTON CLASSIC, a 100% mercerized cotton yarn. The yardage requirements vary by size, ranging from 6 skeins (Small) to 12 skeins (3X), with each skein containing 1.75 ounces (50 grams) and 108 yards (100 meters). The sample shown is worked in color #3816 soft turquoise, a cool, aquatic shade that complements the open mesh construction.

Additional materials required include:

• One pair of size 6 (4mm) straight needles for the main body pieces
• One size 6 (4mm) circular needle, 16 inches (40 cm) long, for the neck edging
• Stitch markers to track pattern repeats and shaping
• A yarn needle for seaming pieces together and weaving in ends

Construction Overview

Both the back and front panels are worked identically from the cast-on edge. The knitter begins by casting on between 68 and 108 stitches depending on size, then works 20 rows in Garter stitch to create a stable lower edge. Following this ribbed section, the pattern transitions to Mesh stitch and continues even (without shaping) until the piece measures 15 inches from the beginning. Raglan shaping then begins, with paired decreases worked at regular intervals across 9 to 14 additional rows (depending on size) to create the characteristic diagonal armhole lines. The pattern concludes with a bind-off when 20 to 22 stitches remain.

During finishing, all pieces are blocked to the specified measurements to ensure consistent sizing and a professional appearance. Raglan seams are sewn first, followed by the side seams and sleeve seams. A neck edging is worked using the circular needle, completing the garment.

Yarn Characteristics

Tahki Yarns COTTON CLASSIC is a mercerized cotton yarn, meaning the fibers have been treated to enhance luster,