Tops Knitting Pattern

Tops in Stylecraft Special DK

What is Being Made

These are children's knitted tops designed for ages 2-11 years, available in five size options to fit chest measurements from 56cm to 76cm (22 to 30 inches). The pattern offers flexibility with two distinct sleeve length options: short sleeves or long sleeves. The design features a round neckline and is worked from the top down, making it an accessible project for advanced beginners looking to develop their skills.

Techniques Used

The primary technique featured in this pattern is twisted rib, which creates textured detailing at the neckline. The twisted rib is established over the first two rows using a combination of knit and purl stitches worked through the back loop, then continued for an additional five to seven rows depending on the size, ending with a right-side row. This technique adds visual interest and elasticity to the neckline area.

The pattern employs top-down construction, a modern knitting approach that allows knitters to try on the garment as they work and easily adjust length. Knitters will also work with circular needles for the round neckline, then transition to straight needles as the body widens, demonstrating practical needle-work transitions.

Stitches Used

• Knit stitch (k) – the fundamental stitch forming the fabric
• Purl stitch (p) – used in combination with knits to create the twisted rib texture
• Through-the-back-loop (tbl) variations – creates the twisted effect in the ribbed sections
• Stocking stitch – the primary stitch for the main body of the garment
• Toggling stitches together (tog) – used for decreasing and shaping

Materials Required

This pattern is designed for Stylecraft Special DK yarn, a double knitting weight that provides excellent stitch definition and drape suitable for children's clothing. Knitters will need 3.25mm knitting needles for the main fabric and 4mm knitting needles for the ribbed neckline sections. The needle size change accommodates the different fabric densities required between the elastic ribbed trim and the body of the top, ensuring proper fit and finish.

Pattern Details by Size

The pattern provides comprehensive measurements across five age ranges. For a 2-3 year old, the chest measurement is 56cm (22 inches) with a finished length of 33cm (13 inches). Sizes progress through 4-5 years (61cm/24 inches chest, 39cm/15¼ inches length), 6-7 years (66cm/26 inches chest, 43cm/17 inches length), 8-9 years (71cm/28 inches chest, 49cm/19¼ inches length), and 10-11 years (76cm/30 inches chest, 53cm/20¾ inches length). Sleeve length options include short sleeves at 5-7cm (2-2¾ inches) or long sleeves ranging from 24-41cm (9½-16 inches) depending on the child's age.

Construction Notes

The pattern includes a helpful note regarding yarn twist: if there is insufficient yarn to work the full twisted stitches in the ribbed sections, knitters should work standard stitches instead, demonstrating flexibility for yarn substitution. The round neckline is established by casting on stitches and working the twisted rib as described, with subsequent rows building the fabric outward. The garment is worked in the round for the neckline area before transitioning to flat knitting for the body and sleeves, a practical approach for this top-down design.