Simple Tank Top - Knitting Pattern for Women in Debbie Bliss Cashmerio Aran by Debbie Bliss - Downloadable PDF

Simple Tank Top Knitting Pattern by Debbie Bliss in Cashmerino Aran

This Simple Tank Top is a downloadable PDF knitting pattern designed by Debbie Bliss, worked in her signature Debbie Bliss Cashmerino Aran yarn. The pattern produces a classic, sleeveless women's tank top — sometimes referred to as a slipover or vest — that is as versatile as it is elegant. With its clean lines and timeless silhouette, this design is an ideal project for knitters who want a wearable, polished result without complex construction.

Sizing and Finished Measurements

The pattern covers an extensive range of sizes, making it suitable for a wide variety of body types. The chest sizes range from 81 cm to 107 cm (32 in to 42 in) in the primary size set, with additional sizes extending from 44 to 56 inches chest covered on pages 3–5 of the PDF. Finished chest measurements range from 90 cm (35½ in) up to 118 cm (46½ in), providing generous ease across the size range. The length to shoulder measures between 49 cm (19¼ in) and 54 cm (21¼ in) depending on the chosen size, giving a comfortable, mid-torso length that works well tucked in or worn loose.

Techniques and Construction

This tank top is constructed using a seamed, worked-flat method, meaning the front and back pieces are knitted separately as flat panels and then joined together with seams. This traditional approach to garment construction is well-suited to beginners and those who prefer working with straight needles rather than in the round. Seaming the finished pieces together creates a structured, neat finish that gives the garment excellent shape and durability.

Key Techniques Used

• Flat knitting — each panel is worked back and forth in rows rather than in the round
• Seaming — front and back panels are joined at the shoulders and sides after knitting is complete
• Decreasing — used to shape the armholes and neckline; the pattern references the ssk decrease (slip, slip, knit) for neat, left-leaning shaping
• Increasing — referenced in the abbreviations, likely used for subtle shaping within the body
• Slipping stitches — used as part of the ssk decrease technique for clean directional shaping

Stitches Used

The primary stitch used throughout the body of this tank top is stocking stitch (stockinette stitch), worked by alternating knit rows on the right side and purl rows on the wrong side. Stocking stitch creates the smooth, classic fabric surface associated with polished knitwear. The tension specification confirms this: 18 stitches and 24 rows to 10 cm / 4 in over stocking stitch using 5mm needles. Rib or border stitches are commonly used on necklines and armhole edges in Debbie Bliss designs to provide a neat, finished look, though knitters should refer to the full PDF for precise stitch-by-stitch instructions on edgings.

Stitch Summary

• Stocking stitch (st st) — the primary body fabric, smooth on the right side
• Knit (k) and purl (p) — the foundational stitches used throughout
• ssk (slip, slip, knit) — a left-leaning decrease used for shaping
• Decrease (dec) and increase (inc) stitches — used to shape the garment's silhouette

Materials Required

Yarn

The pattern is specifically designed for Debbie Bliss Cashmerino Aran, a luxurious aran weight yarn sold in 50g / 1¾ oz balls. The colourway featured in the pattern is Basil 45, a rich, sophisticated shade. Yarn quantities required are as follows:

• 5 balls