Lizzie

Lizzie Knitted Top by Pat Menchini

What is Being Made

Lizzie is a knitted top designed by Pat Menchini, available as a downloadable PDF pattern. This garment is a fitted knit top with yoke shaping and shoulder construction, offered in five size options to fit bust measurements from 76–81 cm (30–32 inches) up to 117–122 cm (46–48 inches). The finished yoke measurements range from 86 cm (34 inches) for the smallest size to 126 cm (49½ inches) for the largest, with length to shoulder shaping varying between approximately 65–71 cm (25½–28¼ inches) depending on size.

Knitting Techniques and Construction

This intermediate-level knitting project employs several classic knitting techniques to create a structured, tailored garment. The pattern incorporates yoke shaping, a foundational technique in top-down garment construction that allows for customized fit through strategic increases. Shoulder shaping is used to create a refined neckline and upper body fit. The pattern also utilizes cable work, as evidenced by the inclusion of a cable needle in the materials list, adding textural interest and visual depth to the finished piece.

Stitches Used

The primary stitch structure is stocking stitch (also called stockinette stitch), which creates the smooth, classic knit fabric that forms the foundation of this top. The tension specification of 21 stitches and 30 rows to 10 cm (4 inches) over stocking stitch using 4 mm needles establishes the fabric density and drape. Cable stitches are incorporated as a design element, worked with a cable needle to create twisted, dimensional texture.

Materials and Yarn

Lizzie is designed to be knitted using Rico Fashion Cotton Métallisé, a dressweight yarn classified as DK weight. This yarn is supplied at 130 metres (142 yards) per 50g ball. The shade specified in the pattern is Platinum 001, a neutral metallic tone. Yarn requirements are size-dependent: the smallest sizes (76–81 cm and 86–91 cm bust) require 8 balls each, the medium size (97–102 cm bust) requires 9 balls, and the larger sizes (107–112 cm and 117–122 cm bust) each require 10 balls of 50g.

Needles and Notions

The pattern calls for two sizes of knitting needles to create varied fabric densities. The smaller needles are 3.25 mm (UK size 10, US size 3), typically used for ribbing or edging to create elasticity and definition. The larger needles are 4 mm (UK size 8, US size 6), used for the main body fabric worked in stocking stitch. Additional notions include one cable needle for managing cable stitches and one stitch holder for securing stitches during construction, particularly useful when shaping the yoke and shoulders.

Pattern Notes

Tension testing is emphasized as essential before beginning this project. The specified tension of 21 stitches and 30 rows to 10 cm over stocking stitch using 4 mm needles must be matched to ensure the finished garment achieves the intended measurements. Knitters are advised that if their tension is too loose, a finer needle should be substituted; if too tight, a larger needle should be used. Yarn amounts provided are approximate, and knitters should verify that any substituted yarn matches the stated tension to maintain garment proportions and fit.