Haleakala - Top Knitting Pattern For Women in Valley Yarns Westhampton by Valley Yarns

Haleakala Women's Sleeveless Tank Knitting Pattern by Julie Turjoman for Valley Yarns

The Haleakala is a sleeveless tank top knitting pattern designed by Julie Turjoman and published by Valley Yarns. Crafted in lightweight Valley Yarns Westhampton, a 100% Pima Cotton DK-weight yarn, this versatile warm-weather piece is equally at home worn on its own or layered as part of a capsule wardrobe. The design is rated Intermediate in difficulty, making it a rewarding project for knitters who are comfortable with in-the-round construction and decorative stitch panels.

What Is Being Made

Haleakala is a women's fitted sleeveless tank top available in eight sizes ranging from XS through 4XL. The finished bust measurement spans from 31 inches (XS) to 57¾ inches (4XL), designed to be worn with 2 to 4 inches of positive ease for a relaxed, comfortable fit. The hip measurement ranges from 34½ inches to 61¼ inches across the size range. The sample shown in the pattern is knitted in Size S in the colorway 10-Chambray.

The overall silhouette is clean and modern — a straightforward tank shape with a thoughtful design detail that elevates it beyond the ordinary. The front and back are worked in classic stockinette stitch, while the sides feature twist stitch panels that add a subtle, eye-catching texture. This combination of simplicity and detail makes Haleakala a practical yet stylish addition to any warm-weather wardrobe.

Techniques Used

The primary construction technique for Haleakala is knitting in the round, which means the body of the tank is worked seamlessly on circular needles, eliminating the need for side seams and creating a smooth, polished finish. Working in the round is a popular method for garments because it allows the knitter to work primarily on the right side of the fabric, making it easier to follow stitch patterns and maintain even tension.

A key design feature of this pattern is the use of twist stitch panels running up each side of the garment. Twist stitches are a classic knitting technique that creates a rope-like or braided visual effect without the complexity of a full cable needle. They add dimension and interest to an otherwise streamlined silhouette, giving Haleakala its distinctive character. This technique is a wonderful introduction to textured stitch work for intermediate knitters looking to expand their skills.

Stitches Used

• Stockinette stitch — used across the front and back panels, creating a smooth, classic fabric that drapes well in cotton yarn
• Twist stitches — worked in panels up each side of the garment, providing textural contrast and visual interest

Materials Required

The pattern calls for Valley Yarns Westhampton, a DK-weight yarn made from 100% Pima Cotton, available in 50g balls with approximately 109 yards per ball. Pima Cotton is prized for its exceptional softness, smooth texture, and breathability, making it an ideal fiber choice for warm-weather knitting. Depending on the size being knitted, the pattern requires between 6 balls (XS) and 16 balls (4XL).

Needles and Notions

Two needle sizes are used in this pattern to achieve proper shaping and gauge:

• US size 6 (4.00 mm) circular needles in both a 16-inch and a 32–40-inch length for the main body
• US size 5 (3.75 mm) circular needles in 16-inch, 24-inch, and 32–40-inch lengths, as well as double-pointed needles (dpns) for finishing details and smaller circumferences

Additional notions include stitch markers (two in unique colors for easy identification), stitch holders or waste yarn for holding live stitches, and a tapestry needle for finishing. The recommended gauge is