Tops Knitting Pattern

Tops in Stylecraft Bamboo & Cotton DK

What is Being Made

This pattern set includes two knitted tops featuring easy texture designs, available in sizes ranging from 81/86cm to 122/127cm bust (32/34in to 48/50in). The collection offers both a Round Neck Top and a V Neck Top, providing versatile options for different neckline preferences. Both styles feature shapely armholes and a fitted yoke construction, creating a flattering silhouette suitable for intermediate knitters.

Techniques Used

These tops are constructed using round knitting techniques, worked in the round from the cast-on edge. The patterns incorporate ribbed sections for structure and elasticity, particularly at the neckline and cuff areas. The yoke shaping is achieved through strategic decreases to create a fitted shoulder area, while the body maintains a comfortable width through the bust. Knitters will work from the bottom up, beginning with ribbed edging before transitioning to the main stitch pattern.

Stitches Used

The primary stitches featured in these designs are knit and purl combinations, specifically incorporating rib stitch patterns (k2, p2 ribbing and variations). The texture designs utilize these fundamental stitches to create visual interest and elasticity. The ribbed sections appear at the neckline, where specific ribbing sequences are repeated multiple times to achieve the desired finished measurements. The straightforward stitch vocabulary makes these patterns accessible to intermediate-level knitters while still delivering attractive texture and drape.

Materials

Both tops are designed to be worked in Stylecraft Bamboo & Cotton DK yarn, requiring 100g of yarn per garment across the five size options. The pattern recommends 3.25mm knitting needles for the main fabric and 4mm needles for the ribbed neckline sections, allowing for proper tension and elasticity control. The DK weight yarn provides a lightweight, breathable fabric ideal for comfortable wear. Alternative yarn options include Cotton Twist DK or Cotton Bursts DK, offering flexibility for color and texture preferences while maintaining the same weight and gauge requirements.

Round Neck Top Specifications

The Round Neck Top is available in five size options with bust measurements from 81/86cm (32/34in) to 122/127cm (48/50in). The garment begins with a cast-on of 110 to 147 stitches depending on size, worked in ribbed sections using the specified stitch patterns. The top features a full length ranging from 56cm to 67cm, providing coverage suitable for various body proportions. The neckline is finished with ribbed edging worked on 4mm needles, creating a neat, elastic finish.

V Neck Top Specifications

The V Neck Top offers the same five size range and uses the same Stylecraft Bamboo & Cotton DK yarn (100g per garment). This version features a V-shaped neckline measuring 13cm to 15in in depth, ending with a purl row for a polished finish. The V Neck construction requires careful shaping to achieve the characteristic diagonal lines of the neckline, making this option slightly more involved than the Round Neck version while remaining within intermediate skill level.