Tahki Yarns Taos Turtleneck Knitting Pattern

Tahki Yarns Taos Turtleneck

What Is Being Made

The Tahki Yarns Taos Turtleneck is a knitted vest-style garment featuring a classic turtleneck collar. Designed by Rosemary Drysdale, this pattern is rated as EASY difficulty and is available in six sizes ranging from Small to X-Large, with finished bust measurements from 37½ inches (95.5 cm) to 55 inches (139.5 cm) and lengths from 28¾ inches (73 cm) to 33½ inches (85 cm).

Construction Techniques

The Taos Turtleneck employs a bottom-up construction method, meaning the garment is worked from the lower edge upward. The piece is worked flat on straight needles rather than in the round for the body, making it accessible for knitters who prefer traditional flat knitting. The design is seamless, utilizing the Three Needle Bind-off technique to join shoulder seams while binding off simultaneously, eliminating the need for traditional seaming.

Stitches and Stitch Techniques

The primary stitch pattern used throughout the Taos Turtleneck is Stockinette stitch, which creates a smooth, classic fabric with knit stitches on the right side and purl stitches on the wrong side. The turtleneck collar is worked in K1, P1 Ribbing, an alternating knit-and-purl pattern that provides elasticity and a traditional finished edge. The pattern incorporates shaping techniques including k2tog (knit two together) and ssk (slip, slip, knit) decreases to shape the armholes and shoulders. The Three Needle Bind-off technique is used to join the shoulder pieces while simultaneously binding off, creating a strong, finished seam.

Materials and Tools

The Taos Turtleneck is designed to be worked with Tahki Yarns NEVADA, a luxury blend yarn composed of 70% Organic Virgin Wool and 30% Alpaca. The yarn is provided in 3.5 ounce (100 gram) balls, each containing 49 yards (45 meters). The pattern requires 5 to 8 balls depending on size, with the sample shown in color #02 bark.

The following needles and tools are required:

• One pair of size 19 (15 mm) straight needles for the main body, or size as needed to obtain gauge
• One size 17 (12 mm) circular needle, 16 inches long, for working the turtleneck collar in the round
• Size M (9 mm) crochet hook for creating the decorative tie chains
• Stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats and round beginnings
• Stitch holders for temporarily holding stitches
• Yarn needle for weaving in ends and threading ties

Gauge and Finishing Details

The pattern specifies a gauge of 6 stitches and 9 rows over 4 inches (10 cm) in Stockinette stitch on the blocked fabric. Checking gauge before beginning is essential for achieving the correct finished measurements.

The turtleneck is completed by picking up 32 to 34 stitches around the neck opening (depending on size) and working 10 rounds of K1, P1 Ribbing before binding off loosely. Two decorative ties are created using the crochet hook to make 24-inch chains, which are then threaded through marked positions at the sides of the garment.