Slash Neck Top in Sirdar Crofter DK - 8111 - Downloadable PDF

Sirdar Crofter DK Slash Neck Top – Pattern 8111: A Detailed Summary

Pattern 8111 from Sirdar is a knitted slash neck top designed for a relaxed, contemporary silhouette. Published as a downloadable PDF, this intermediate-level knitting pattern covers six sizes ranging from a 32/34 inch to a 52/54 inch bust, making it an inclusive design that caters to a wide range of body types. The pattern is part of the Sirdar Crofter DK range and delivers a stylish, everyday wardrobe staple suitable for knitters who are comfortable with core techniques and ready to move beyond beginner projects.

What Is Being Made

The finished project is a slash neck top — a pullover-style garment featuring a wide, horizontal neckline that sits elegantly across the collarbone and shoulders. This style of neckline, sometimes called a boat neck, creates a flattering and fashion-forward look without the need for complex neckline shaping. The top is designed to be worn as a standalone piece or layered, making it a versatile addition to any handknitted wardrobe.

The actual finished measurements range from 90 cm (35½ in) to 141 cm (55½ in) in circumference, with a full length of approximately 55 cm to 68 cm depending on the size knitted. These generous measurements suggest a comfortable, relaxed fit with a little positive ease over the stated bust sizes.

Sizes Available

• To fit bust: 81/86, 91/97, 102/107, 112/117, 122/127, and 132/137 cm (32/34 to 52/54 in)
• Actual measurement: 90 cm to 141 cm across all six sizes
• Full length: approximately 55 cm to 68 cm depending on size

The inclusion of larger sizes up to 52/54 inches is a notable feature of this pattern, reflecting Sirdar's commitment to size-inclusive design.

Techniques Used

This is an intermediate knitting pattern, meaning it is best suited to knitters who are confident with the basics and ready to apply them consistently over a larger garment. Key techniques involved include:

• Reversed stocking stitch — the primary fabric of the top is worked in reversed stocking stitch, meaning the purl side of the fabric is used as the right side. This creates a softly textured, matte surface that beautifully showcases the tonal or self-striping qualities of the Crofter DK yarn.
• Tension/gauge management — the pattern specifies a tension of 22 stitches and 28 rows to 10 cm over reversed stocking stitch on 4mm needles, and knitters are instructed to adjust needle size accordingly to achieve the correct gauge. This is an important intermediate skill.
• Shaping — as with most garment construction, knitters will work increases and decreases to shape the body of the top.
• Neckline finishing — the slash neck design requires careful finishing to achieve the clean, wide neckline that defines the garment's style.

Stitches Used

• Reversed stocking stitch — the main body fabric, worked flat on straight needles with the purl side facing outward as the right side of the work.
• Knit and purl stitches — the fundamental building blocks of the fabric throughout the garment.
• Ribbing or neckband stitches are likely used for finishing edges, as is standard in garment construction of this type, though specific stitch details for edgings are contained within the full PDF pattern.

Materials Required

Yarn

The pattern is written specifically for Sirdar Crofter DK, shade F026 103. This is a DK weight yarn sold in 50g balls. The quantity required ranges from 4 balls for the smallest sizes up to 7 balls for the largest size. Sirdar Crofter DK is well known for its soft handle and its self-striping or tonal colourways, which can add visual interest to an otherwise straightforward stitch pattern like reversed stocking stitch —