Audrey Top in Loopy Mango Summer Cotton - Downloadable PDF

Audrey Top in Loopy Mango Summer Cotton

What is Being Made

The Audrey Top is a knitted sweater designed by Loopy Mango as a downloadable PDF pattern. This garment is crafted as a women's top suitable for warm weather wear, available in five size options ranging from Extra-Small/Small through 2X/Large/3X-Large. The finished measurements show a fitted chest width that ranges from 16.25 inches (41.5 cm) for the smallest size to approximately 22.5 inches (57 cm) for the largest size, with a relaxed hem that flares out significantly. The length of the finished garment ranges from 16 inches (40.5 cm) to approximately 17.75 inches (45 cm), making it a cropped or standard-length top appropriate for layering or wearing on its own during warm seasons.

Knitting Techniques Used

This intermediate-level knitting project employs several key techniques commonly used in modern sweater construction. The pattern utilizes circular knitting as the primary method, allowing the crafter to work in the round rather than flat pieces that require seaming. The pattern specifically addresses the use of the magic loop method for working smaller circumferences like necklines and armholes when using longer circular needles. This technique allows knitters to work small sections in the round without requiring multiple needle sizes or double-pointed needles. The pattern also accommodates knitters who prefer to avoid magic loop by offering the option to use shorter circular needles instead, demonstrating flexibility in construction methodology.

Stitches and Construction Details

While the PDF excerpt does not detail specific stitch patterns used throughout the garment, the pattern calls for the use of stitch markers to track pattern repeats and shaping, and stitch holders or waste yarn for holding stitches during construction—common practices in sweater knitting. These notions suggest the pattern likely incorporates shaping techniques such as increases and decreases to create the fitted chest and flared hem characteristic of the finished measurements. The significant difference between chest width (16.25 inches for XS/S) and hem width (25 inches for XS/S) indicates substantial shaping, likely achieved through strategic increases worked at specific intervals throughout the body of the garment.

Materials: Yarn and Needles

The Audrey Top is designed to be knitted with Loopy Mango Summer Cotton, a 100% cotton yarn in a chunky weight. Each ball contains 90 yards (82 meters) and weighs 3.5 ounces (100 grams). The yardage requirement varies by size: Extra-Small/Small requires 5 balls (450 yards total), Small/Medium requires 6 balls (540 yards), Medium/Large requires 7 balls (630 yards), Large/X-Large requires 8 balls (720 yards), and 2X/Large/3X-Large requires 9 balls (810 yards). Cotton yarn is an excellent choice for warm-weather garments as it provides breathability and a natural drape.

The pattern requires US Size 13 (9 mm) circular needles in two lengths: a 32-inch (80 cm) needle for working the larger sections of the garment and a 16-inch (40 cm) needle as an optional alternative for working smaller circumferences. The 32-inch needles accommodate the use of magic loop technique for smaller sections, while the shorter needles offer an alternative approach for knitters who prefer not to use that method. Both needle options are the same gauge (US 13/9 mm), ensuring consistent fabric throughout the finished garment.