Llani

Llani Children's Knit Top by Katya Frankel

What Is Being Made

Llani is a seamless children's knit top designed by Katya Frankel and worked from the top down in one piece. This intermediate-level knitting project creates a fitted garment available in six sizes (2, 4, 6, 8, 10, and 12) with finished chest circumferences ranging from 23 to 31 inches (58.5 to 79 centimeters). The design accommodates children's varying growth rates by offering multiple sizing options based on actual chest measurements rather than age alone.

Knitting Techniques and Stitches

Llani employs several fundamental knitting techniques suitable for intermediate-level crafters. The construction method involves top-down seamless knitting, which eliminates the need for seaming and creates a continuous garment worked in the round. This approach simplifies finishing and ensures a polished final product.

The stitch work incorporates simple increases and decreases to shape the garment as it's worked downward from the neckline. Cabling adds textural interest and visual depth to the design. The pattern also features Twisted rib patterning, which creates an elastic, textured fabric ideal for edges and fitted areas. Stocking stitch (stockinette stitch) forms the primary fabric base, providing a smooth, classic knit surface.

Finishing is minimal—only weaving in ends is required, making this an efficient project from start to completion.

Yarn and Needles

Llani is designed to be worked with Debbie Bliss' Pure Silk, a luxurious 100% silk yarn available in pink. The yardage requirements vary by size: sizes 2 and 4 require 3 hanks each, sizes 6 and 8 require 4 hanks each, and sizes 10 and 12 require 5 hanks each. Each hank provides 137 yards (125 meters) of yarn per 50 grams. Total yardage needed ranges from approximately 325 yards (295 meters) for the smallest size to 660 yards (600 meters) for the largest size, allowing for yarn substitutions with similar yardage specifications.

The pattern calls for 3.75mm (US 5) circular needles to achieve the proper fabric gauge and accommodate the seamless, in-the-round construction method.

Gauge and Sizing

Achieving the correct gauge is essential for proper fit. The pattern specifies 24 stitches and 32 rounds over 4 inches (10 centimeters) in Stocking stitch and 27 stitches over 4 inches (10 centimeters) in Twisted rib pattern. Finished chest circumferences to fit range from 20 to 30 inches (51 to 76 centimeters), accommodating a wide range of children's sizes.