Mesh Tee 420

Mesh Tee 420 by Michelle Porter

What Is Being Made

The Mesh Tee 420 is a loose-fitting knitted garment designed as a top with approximately 10–15 cm (4–6 inches) of ease. This downloadable knitting pattern from independent designer Michelle Porter offers six size options ranging from Small to 3X-Large, with finished bust measurements from 91.5 cm (36 inches) to 142.5 cm (56 inches). The garment features a relaxed silhouette suitable for layering or wearing as a standalone piece during warmer months.

Construction Method and Techniques

The Mesh Tee is constructed using a top-down knitting method, meaning the garment is worked from the neckline downward in rows. This approach allows for easy fitting adjustments during the knitting process. After the main body is completed in rows, the side seams and underarm seams are sewn together to finish the garment. The neckline and sleeve borders are finished with simple crochet edging, providing a neat, professional-looking border without the need for additional materials or complex techniques.

Stitches and Stitch Techniques

While the pattern emphasizes simplicity, it employs fundamental knitting techniques suitable for an intermediate skill level. The pattern specifically recommends using a Knitted Cast-on method for starting the neckline, which creates a flexible edge ideal for garments with openings. The crochet finishing on the neck and sleeve borders uses basic crochet stitches to secure and neaten these edges, making the pattern accessible to knitters with basic crochet knowledge.

Materials: Yarn and Needles

The Mesh Tee requires fingering or sock weight yarn, classified as 3-ply or 4-ply yarn. Yardage requirements vary by size: the Small size requires approximately 385 meters (420 yards), while the 3X-Large size requires approximately 730 meters (800 yards). Knitters will need a pair of 4.5 mm (US 7) needles to work the main body of the garment. The pattern is designed to be made in Canada and is available as a downloadable PDF from Fondle Patterns.

Size Range and Finished Measurements

• Small: Bust 91.5 cm (36 ins), Length to shoulder 49.5 cm (19½ ins), Armhole depth 23 cm (9 ins)
• Medium: Bust 101.5 cm (40 ins), Length to shoulder 53.5 cm (21 ins), Armhole depth 24 cm (9½ ins)
• Large: Bust 112 cm (44 ins), Length to shoulder 56 cm (22 ins), Armhole depth 25.5 cm (10 ins)
• X-Large: Bust 122 cm (48 ins), Length to shoulder 58.5 cm (23 ins), Armhole depth 27 cm (10½ ins)
• 2X-Large: Bust 132 cm (52 ins), Length to shoulder 61 cm (24 ins), Armhole depth 28.5 cm (11¼ ins)
• 3X-Large: Bust 142.5 cm (56 ins), Length to shoulder 63.5 cm (25 ins), Armhole depth 29 cm (11½ ins)

Difficulty Level

The Mesh Tee is rated as an intermediate knitting project, making it suitable for knitters who have mastered basic knit and purl stitches and are ready to tackle garment construction. The top-down method and straightforward shaping make this an excellent intermediate project for those looking to build confidence in garment knitting without overwhelming complexity.