Valley Yarns Mesa Verde Knitting Pattern

Valley Yarns Mesa Verde Tank Top

What is Being Made

The Mesa Verde is a streamlined sleeveless tank designed by Julie Turjoman for warm weather wear and layering. This slipover top features a scoop neckline with shoulders wide enough to conceal bra straps, creating a flattering silhouette. The garment incorporates eyelet accents throughout and uses A-line shaping for a drapey, feminine fit that is closer at the bust and looser through the hips.

Techniques Used

This intermediate knitting project employs several key construction techniques. The tank is worked flat in two separate pieces—one for the front and one for the back—which are then seamed together for structural integrity. The design features short-row shaping at the shoulders to enhance fit and comfort. A-line body shaping is achieved through strategic decreases on each side, creating the characteristic tapered waist and wider hip measurement. A doubled picot hem is worked at the lower edge to ensure the tank hangs properly and maintains its shape.

Stitches and Lace Details

The primary stitch used throughout is stockinette stitch, which provides excellent stitch definition and a smooth fabric surface. The design incorporates eyelet accents as decorative lace elements, making this an ideal project for knitters looking to build or refine their lace knitting skills. The eyelets add visual interest while remaining approachable for newer knitters, though the overall design complexity appeals to experienced crafters as well.

Materials and Specifications

The Mesa Verde is knitted in Valley Yarns Westhampton, a 100% Pima cotton yarn that provides a gorgeous soft hand combined with excellent stitch definition—ideal for warm weather garments. The pattern requires 6 to 13 balls depending on size, with each ball containing 50 grams and 109 yards of yarn. The color shown in the sample is Sea Pine (17).

Needles required include US size 6 (4.00 mm) circular needles in both 16-inch and 24-32-inch lengths for the main fabric, and US size 5 (3.75 mm) circular needles and double-pointed needles for ribbing and finishing details. Additional materials include 6 stitch markers (with 2 in unique colors for pattern tracking), 3 locking stitch markers, stitch holders or waste yarn for managing live stitches, and a tapestry needle for seaming and weaving in ends.

Sizing and Fit

The Mesa Verde is available in eight sizes ranging from XS through 4XL. Finished bust measurements span from 34 inches to 62 inches, with 2 to 4 inches of positive ease built into the design for comfortable wear. Hip measurements range from 38 to 66 inches, accommodating the A-line shaping. The length from hem to underarm remains consistent at 16 to 18 inches depending on size, though knitters can customize the length if desired with additional yarn.

Skill Level and Gauge

Rated as Advanced Beginner, this pattern is designed to challenge newer knitters while remaining engaging for experienced makers. The gauge is 20 stitches and 28 rows per 4 inches when worked in stockinette stitch on the larger needles and blocked, making accurate gauge measurement essential for proper fit.