Tops in Hayfield Sundance DK - 8144 - Downloadable PDF

Hayfield Sundance DK Tops – Pattern 8144: Knitted Long Sleeved Top and ¾ Sleeve Top

Pattern 8144 from Hayfield presents two stylish knitted tops worked in Hayfield Sundance DK yarn: a Long Sleeved Top and a ¾ Sleeve Top. Both designs are worked in a classic construction with contrast colour detailing, making them versatile wardrobe staples suitable for a wide range of sizes. Rated as intermediate in difficulty, this downloadable PDF pattern is ideal for knitters who are comfortable with shaping, tension management, and working with two colours.

Sizes and Fit

Both tops are available in six sizes, designed to fit chest/bust measurements from 61/66 cm (24/26 in) up to 112/117 cm (44/46 in). The actual finished measurements range from approximately 71 cm (28 in) to 122 cm (48 in), providing a comfortable, slightly relaxed fit across all sizes. Full lengths range from 48 cm to 69 cm depending on size, making these tops a practical mid-length style.

Sleeve Lengths

• Long Sleeved Top: Sleeve length ranges from 33 cm (13 in) to 48 cm (19 in), noted as adjustable to suit individual arm length preferences.
• ¾ Sleeve Top: Sleeve length ranges from 22 cm (8¾ in) to 32 cm (12½ in), measured just below the armholes.

Materials Required

Yarn – Hayfield Sundance DK

Both tops are knitted in Hayfield Sundance DK (product code F255), a double knitting weight yarn, used in two shades to create contrast colour detailing. The specific colourways used in each design are as follows:

• Long Sleeved Top: Main shade 501 (2–5 x 100g balls depending on size) and contrast shade 506 (2–3 x 100g balls depending on size).
• ¾ Sleeve Top: Main shade 506 (2–4 x 100g balls depending on size) and contrast shade 502 (1–3 x 100g balls depending on size).

Yarn quantities stated are based on average requirements when working to the specified tension with the recommended yarn. As DK weight yarn, Hayfield Sundance DK is a popular choice for garments due to its balance of stitch definition and wearability.

Needles and Notions

• 1 pair of 4mm knitting needles (UK 8 / USA 6) – used for the main body fabric
• 1 pair of 3¼mm knitting needles (UK 10 / USA 3) – used for ribbing and borders
• 1 stitch holder
• 6 buttons

Tension

The stated tension for this pattern is 22 stitches and 28 rows to 10 cm (4 in) over stocking stitch on 4mm needles. Achieving the correct tension is essential to ensure the finished garment matches the stated measurements. Knitters are advised to work a tension swatch before beginning: if fewer stitches are achieved, switch to a thinner needle; if more stitches are achieved, switch to a thicker needle.

Techniques and Construction

Both tops are constructed using traditional flat knitting techniques, worked in separate pieces (back, front, and sleeves) and then seamed together. The pattern uses a thumb method cast on for the back, which creates a neat, elastic edge well suited to garment construction.

Key Techniques Used

• Stocking stitch – the primary fabric stitch, creating a smooth knit face and a purl reverse, used throughout the main body and sleeves