Tops Knitting Pattern

Tops in Stylecraft Savannah 9982 - Knitted Scoop Neck and V Neck Tops

What is Being Made

This downloadable knitting pattern from Stylecraft produces two coordinating tops: a Scoop Neck Top and a V Neck Top. Both designs are easy-to-knit, two-piece garments suitable for beginners. The pattern includes sizing from 81-86cm (32-34 inches) bust measurement up to 122-127cm (48-50 inches), making it accessible for a wide range of body types. The finished garments feature a modern, relaxed fit with actual bust measurements ranging from 101cm (39¾ inches) for the smallest size to 143cm (56¼ inches) for the largest size.

Techniques Used

This pattern employs fundamental knitting techniques appropriate for beginner-level crafters. The construction method involves knitting two separate pieces that are then assembled. Ribbed edging is used at the garment openings for a finished, professional appearance. The pattern incorporates decreasing techniques (specifically p2tog, or purl two together) to shape the garment and create proper fit. Sleeve shaping is achieved through strategic cast-on increases at designated rows, allowing the sleeves to expand gradually from the body. Shoulder shaping uses sequential cast-off rows to create a properly contoured neckline and shoulder area. The garments are worked primarily in flat pieces on straight needles rather than in the round, simplifying the construction process for newer knitters.

Stitches Used

The pattern utilizes essential knitting stitches that form the foundation of most knit garments. 1x1 Ribbing (alternating knit and purl stitches in a single-stitch repeat) appears at the neckline and cuff edges, providing elasticity and a neat finish. Stocking stitch (also called stockinette stitch) forms the main fabric body—this classic stitch is created by alternating knit rows on the right side with purl rows on the wrong side, producing a smooth, uniform appearance. Decreases using purl two together (p2tog) are worked into the ribbed sections to reduce stitch counts and shape the garment appropriately. These straightforward stitch techniques make the pattern ideal for knitters developing their foundational skills.

Materials and Tools

The Scoop Neck Top requires 4 to 7 balls of 100g yarn depending on size selection, with the smallest sizes (81-86cm and 91-97cm bust) requiring 4 balls, mid-range sizes needing 5 to 6 balls, and the largest sizes (122-127cm bust) requiring 7 balls. The recommended yarn for this version is Stylecraft Savannah in the Desert colorway (3790). The pattern notes that Savannah yarn creates a random color effect, producing unique variation in each finished garment.

The V Neck Top version requires slightly less yardage: 4 to 7 balls of 100g yarn, with the smallest size needing 4 balls, mid-range sizes requiring 5 balls, and larger sizes needing 6 to 7 balls. This version is worked in Stylecraft Savannah in the Tundra colorway (3792).

Two pairs of knitting needles in different sizes are required: 3¾mm needles (UK size 9, US size 5) for working the ribbed sections, and 4½mm needles (UK size 7, US size 7) for the main stocking stitch fabric. Stitch holders are needed to temporarily hold stitches during construction, particularly when shaping the neckline and shoulders.

Pattern Structure and Sizing

The pattern is organized by five distinct size options, each clearly marked for easy reference. Measurements are provided in both centimeters and inches for international accessibility. Full length measurements (taken from the side of the back neck) range from 56cm (22 inches) for the smallest size to 67cm (26½ inches) for the largest. Sleeve length varies from 13cm (5¼ inches) for the two smallest sizes to 15cm (6 inches) for the largest sizes. This graduated sizing ensures proper proportions across the full range of body measurements.

Beginner-Friendly Design

Marked as an Easy difficulty level, this pattern is specifically designed for knitters new to garment construction. The two-piece construction eliminates the complexity of working in the round or managing multiple