Iristape Unstructured

Iristape Unstructured by Nancy Boccuzzi

What is Being Made

The Iristape Unstructured is a loose, unstructured knit top designed by Nancy A. Boccuzzi, suitable for layering. This beginner-friendly garment features a bohemian aesthetic with an intentionally uneven textural hemline that celebrates artistic freedom of expression. The top is designed in one size that fits most, making it an accessible project for knitters of varying experience levels.

Construction Method

This top is worked in one piece from the bottom back to the front, with a bound-off hole created for the neck opening. After the main knitting is complete, the garment is repositioned from its worked direction to a lengthwise position, creating a unique construction technique that distinguishes this design from traditional top-down or bottom-up garment patterns.

Stitches and Techniques Used

• Garter Stitch – The primary pattern stitch, created by knitting every row, providing a textured, reversible fabric
• Knit Front and Back (KF&B) – Used for increasing stitches within the fabric
• Knit Two Together (K2tog) – Used for decreasing stitches
• Cast On (CO) – Foundation for beginning the garment
• Bind Off (BO) – Securing stitches at completion and creating the neck opening
• Slip Stitch (SL St) – A crochet technique incorporated into the design
• Chain (CH) – Crochet chain stitch used as part of the finishing
• Stitch Markers – Used to track pattern sections and construction points

Materials and Tools

Yarn: Lucci Iristape (3 hanks) is the primary yarn choice. Alternatively, Lucci Cotton tape (3 hanks) and Lucci Iris (3 hanks) may be substituted and held together for a similar effect. The yarn weight is DK, making this an accessible project for beginners.

Needles and Hooks: US 15 and US 17 knitting needles are required, along with a J or K crochet hook for the finishing techniques incorporated into the design.

Gauge: 25 stitches equals 1 inch, providing a reference point for sizing accuracy.

Difficulty Level

Rated as a beginner project, the Iristape Unstructured is accessible to knitters new to garment construction. The straightforward garter stitch pattern and simple shaping techniques make this an ideal introduction to creating wearable pieces, while the unique construction method adds educational value to the knitting experience.