Beide

Beide Knitted Summer Top by Katherine Vaughan

What is Being Made

Beide is a women's knitted summer top designed by Katherine Vaughan. The name, meaning "both" in German, reflects the garment's dual design philosophy. This intermediate-level knitting project combines two distinct stitch techniques in a single cohesive piece, creating a sophisticated layering piece or standalone summer tee. The pattern is available in six sizes ranging from Women's XS to 2XL, with finished chest circumferences from 32.25 inches (82 cm) to 52.25 inches (133 cm).

Techniques and Stitch Work

Beide showcases a combination of cable knitting and lace knitting techniques, which are the defining features of this design. The interplay between these two contrasting stitch patterns creates visual interest and demonstrates intermediate knitting skills. The garment is worked primarily in stockinette stitch, which serves as the foundation for both the cable and lace elements.

Cable work is incorporated using a cable needle, a specialized tool required for manipulating stitches to create the twisted, rope-like texture characteristic of cable knitting. The pattern includes specific cable abbreviations such as C2/2b, indicating a cable cross that twists stitches for dimensional texture. Lace elements add an open, airy quality to balance the density of the cables, making this top suitable for warm-weather wear.

Materials and Tools Required

• Yarn: 730 to 1,025 yards (670 to 935 meters) of worsted weight cotton blend yarn, depending on size selected
• Needles: US size #5 (3.75mm) circular needles, or the size needed to achieve proper gauge
• Additional Tools: Cable needle for cable work, one large stitch holder or waste yarn for holding stitches, two stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats, and a yarn needle for finishing

Gauge and Sizing Information

The pattern requires a gauge of 22 stitches and 25 rows to 4 inches (10 cm) in stockinette stitch. Achieving proper gauge is essential for obtaining the correct finished dimensions. The top features a length to underarm ranging from 12 inches (30.5 cm) in the XS size to 14.5 inches (37 cm) in the 2XL size, with armhole depths from 7 inches (18 cm) to 9.5 inches (24 cm). This graduated sizing ensures proper fit across the full range of body types.

Design Characteristics

The Beide top exemplifies thoughtful design that balances structural and decorative elements. The combination of cables and lace creates a garment that is both visually striking and wearable for multiple seasons. The cotton blend yarn provides breathability and drape, making it ideal for layering or wearing as a standalone piece during warmer months. The intermediate difficulty level makes this project suitable for knitters with foundational skills who are ready to expand their technical repertoire.