Mary Top

Mary Top by Jo Sharp

What is Being Made

The Mary Top is a drapey lightweight vest designed as a beginner-friendly knitting project. This garment features a distinctive silhouette where the bodice is wide and falls over the shoulders to form loose "sleeves" without traditional sleeve caps. The design creates an elegant, relaxed fit suitable for layering or wearing as a standalone piece.

Knitting Techniques Used

The Mary Top employs several fundamental knitting techniques appropriate for beginners. The main fabric is worked in Stocking stitch, which creates a smooth, classic knit appearance. Garter stitch edging is used to frame the piece and provide structure to the neckline and armhole openings. The construction method involves seaming, with the bodice joined using backstitch on the shoulder seams and side seams. The neckband is worked using the pick-up method, where stitches are picked up around the neckline opening with a circular needle, allowing for a finished, professional edge. The pattern includes casting off techniques and features rib stitch for the sleeve edgings, which are worked on larger needles to maintain the lightweight aesthetic.

Stitches Used

• Stocking stitch – the primary stitch for the bodice, creating the main fabric
• Garter stitch – used for edging details around neckline and armholes
• Rib stitch – worked on the sleeve edgings for elasticity and definition
• Backstitch – the seaming technique for joining shoulder and side seams

Materials

The Mary Top is designed to be worked in Jo Sharp Desert Garden Aran Cotton, a breathable cotton yarn in aran weight. This yarn choice contributes to the garment's lightweight, drapey qualities. The pattern is available in two sizes (A and B), requiring 10 balls of 50g for size A and 12 balls of 50g for size B. The color featured is Evening. Needles required include 5.50mm needles for the main bodice and 4.50mm circular needles for the neckband and rib edgings. The use of larger needles for the sleeve edgings is intentional, creating a quick, lightweight result that complements the overall design aesthetic.

Difficulty Level

This pattern is rated as beginner level, making it an excellent introduction to garment construction. The straightforward stitch combinations, simple shaping, and clear finishing techniques make it accessible to knitters new to wearable projects.