Chivalry Top

Chivalry Top by Corrine Walcher

Project Overview

The Chivalry Top is an intermediate-level knitted garment designed by independent designer Corrine Walcher. This light layering piece draws inspiration from the designer's childhood love of Arthurian legend, with the pattern named after the yarn itself—Avalon Springs Farm Chivalry—which evokes the magical stories of King Arthur and Queen Guinevere. The top is crafted to showcase the beautiful hand and weight of this premium yarn.

Garment Specifications

Finished Dimensions: The Chivalry Top is available in six sizes with chest measurements ranging from 32 to 52 inches. Length varies from 13 to 15 inches from cast-on to underarm, allowing for customization across multiple body types.

Yarn and Materials

This pattern calls for Avalon Springs Farm Chivalry, a luxurious 100% silk noil yarn. The yardage requirement is 475 yards per 4 ounce skein, with a total of 2 to 3 skeins needed depending on size. The sample garment shown is knit in the colorway Mountains Majesty. The yarn weight is suitable for both 3-ply and 4-ply applications, making it versatile for various knitting techniques.

Needles and Notions

• Circular Needles: US #5 (3.75mm) circular needle, 32 inches or longer for the body of the top. Knitters working larger sizes may prefer an even longer needle for comfort. Alternatively, knitters may use their preferred method for knitting small circumferences in the round.
• Gauge Adjustment: Needles should be sized to achieve the specified gauge.
• Additional Notions: Stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats, waste yarn or stitch holders for managing stitches during construction, and a yarn needle for weaving in ends.

Gauge and Tension

The pattern is worked to a gauge of 20 stitches and 28 rows per 4 inches in stockinette stitch. Achieving accurate gauge is essential for proper fit, particularly in a fitted top where chest measurements are critical.

Knitting Techniques and Stitches

The Chivalry Top employs fundamental knitting techniques suitable for intermediate-level crafters. The garment is constructed primarily in stockinette stitch, the most common stitch in knitting, created by alternating knit and purl rows (or knit rounds when working in the round). The top is worked in the round using circular needles, a technique that eliminates seaming and creates a seamless, professional finish. This method is particularly effective for creating fitted garments with clean lines.

The construction method involves casting on stitches, working the body in stockinette stitch, and using stitch markers to maintain pattern integrity throughout. The use of waste yarn or stitch holders allows knitters to manage live stitches during armhole shaping and other construction phases, a hallmark of intermediate knitting projects.

Design Philosophy

The Chivalry Top exemplifies thoughtful knitwear design that celebrates both the yarn and the wearer. By working in the round with a premium silk noil yarn, the finished garment offers a sophisticated drape and elegant appearance. The light weight of the yarn makes this top ideal as a layering piece, suitable for various seasons and styling options. The intermediate difficulty level ensures that experienced knitters will find the project engaging without excessive complexity.