Kokkini Tunic in Berroco Medina - Downloadable PDF

Kokkini Tunic in Berroco Medina – Pattern Summary

The Kokkini Tunic is an intermediate-level knitting pattern designed by Donna Yacino and published by Berroco. It is a flattering, relaxed-fit pullover tunic worked in a delicate lace pattern stitch, offering seven sizes to suit a wide range of bodies. The finished bust measurement ranges from 36 to 60 inches, and the length is a consistent 30 inches across all sizes, making it a graceful, hip-grazing layering piece. The sample shown in the pattern is knitted in size 40 inches with approximately 7 inches of ease, giving it a comfortable, flowing silhouette.

Construction Method

The Kokkini Tunic is constructed using a distinctive and clever seamed, worked-flat, bottom-up approach that differs from a standard set-in or raglan construction. Rather than working the entire body in one piece or in traditional side-seamed panels, the design begins with a center panel for both the back and the front, worked flat from the lower edge upward. Stitches for the side panels are then picked up along the side edges of the completed center panel and worked outward. This method creates a structured, architectural quality in the fabric and gives the lace pattern a pleasing directionality. The construction is seamed to finish, joining the various panels together for a polished, professional result.

Pattern Stitch and Lace Technique

The defining feature of the Kokkini Tunic is its signature lace pattern stitch, which is worked over a multiple of 4 stitches plus 3. The two-row repeat is straightforward enough for an intermediate knitter to memorize quickly, yet produces a beautifully textured, open fabric. The stitch repeat is as follows:

• Row 1 (WS): Purl across.
• Row 2 (RS): K2, then repeat yarn over, slip 1 knitwise, k2tog, pass slipped stitch over, yarn over, k1 to the last stitch, k1.

This combination of yarn overs (yo) paired with a double decrease (sl 1 knitwise, k2tog, psso) creates a centered, symmetrical lace motif that is both elegant and rhythmic to knit. The yarn overs add openwork eyelets, while the double decrease keeps the stitch count balanced, resulting in a fabric with a lovely drape and visual lightness. This type of lace is sometimes called a traveling vine or feather-style lace and is well-suited to the drape of the Berroco Medina yarn.

Yarn: Berroco Medina

The pattern calls for Berroco Medina, a DK weight yarn sold in 100-gram balls. The sample is knitted in colorway #4750 Taza. Depending on the size being made, the pattern requires 4 to 6 balls of Berroco Medina — specifically:

• 4 balls for sizes 36" and 40"
• 5 balls for sizes 44" and 48"
• 6 balls for sizes 52", 56", and 60"

Berroco Medina is known for its soft hand and subtle sheen, qualities that complement the open lace stitch beautifully, allowing the eyelets to bloom and the fabric to drape with fluidity. Its DK weight provides enough body to give the tunic structure while remaining lightweight and comfortable to wear.

Needles and Notions

The Kokkini Tunic is knitted on a 29-inch circular needle in size 6 (4.00 mm), or whichever size is needed to achieve the correct gauge. Although the garment is worked flat rather than in the round, the circular needle accommodates the large number of stitches picked up for the side panels with ease. A crochet hook in size 3.25 mm (D) is also required — likely for finishing details or edging. As always with Berroco