Valley Yarns Haleakala Knitting Pattern

Valley Yarns Haleakala Sleeveless Tank Top

What Is Being Made

The Haleakala is a versatile, sleeveless tank top designed by Julie Turjoman that functions as both a standalone warm-weather garment and a layering piece. This intermediate-level knitting project features a scoop neckline and drop shoulders, with an A-line silhouette that provides a closer fit at the bust and a looser fit through the hips. The tank is available in eight sizes ranging from XS to 4XL, with finished bust measurements from 31 inches to 57¾ inches.

Construction Techniques

The Haleakala employs a sophisticated construction method that combines circular knitting with flat knitting techniques. The lower body is worked in the round from the hem upward, allowing for seamless construction through the hips and waist. The design incorporates strategic A-line shaping with decreases positioned on each side of the decorative twist stitch panels, creating a tailored silhouette that hugs the bust while skimming the hips.

Once the armholes are reached, the knitter divides the stitches and switches to working flat in rows to shape the armholes and shoulders. The pattern employs short-row shaping at the shoulders to enhance the fit of the drop shoulders and improve overall garment drape. This technique creates subtle shaping without visible seams.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The Haleakala showcases multiple stitch techniques that create visual interest and texture:

• Stockinette stitch forms the primary fabric on the front and back of the tank, creating a smooth, classic knit surface
• Twist stitch panels run vertically up each side of the body, providing a decorative embellishment that contrasts with the stockinette background
• Lattice stitch motif appears in the twist stitch panels, with 6-stitch repeats creating an intricate textured design
• Garter stitch borders frame the twist stitch panels in narrow bands, visually separating the decorative elements from the stockinette body
• Reverse stockinette stitch is used for all edgings throughout the garment, including the neckline, armholes, and hem
• Purl stitches create the rolled hem at the lower edge, formed by purling 2 rounds before switching to the larger needles

Materials and Gauge

The Haleakala is knit using Valley Yarns Westhampton, a 100% Pima cotton yarn that makes it ideal for warm-weather wear. The yardage requirements range from 654 yards for the smallest size (6 balls) to 1,744 yards for the largest size (16 balls), depending on the size being knitted. The sample shown is in Size S, worked in color 10-Chambray.

The pattern calls for US size 6 (4.00 mm) circular needles in 16-inch and 32-40-inch lengths for the main fabric, with US size 5 (3.75 mm) circular needles in multiple lengths (16-inch, 24-inch, and 32-40-inch) plus double-pointed needles for ribbing and edgings. The gauge is 20 stitches and 28 rows over 4 inches in stockinette stitch on the larger needles when blocked, ensuring proper fit and drape. The Lattice stitch motif measures 4 inches over 4 repeats of the 6-stitch pattern.

Additional materials needed include two stitch markers in unique colors to distinguish the beginning of the round and pattern sections, stitch holders or waste yarn for managing live stitches, and a tapestry needle for weaving in ends and seaming if necessary.