Harbor Lights Shell

Harbor Lights Shell by Therese Chynoweth

What Is Being Made

The Harbor Lights Shell is a sleeveless knitted top designed by Therese Chynoweth as an intermediate-level knitting project. This standard-fitting shell is available in seven sizes ranging from XS to 3XL, with finished bust measurements from 31¼ inches up to 55¼ inches and lengths varying from 22½ to 26 inches depending on size selection. The garment is shown in size Small and features a classic sleeveless silhouette suitable for layering or wearing as a standalone summer piece.

Knitting Techniques and Construction

This intermediate knitting project employs circular needles in two different lengths to accommodate the garment's construction. The pattern uses both 16-inch and 32-inch circular needles, allowing for seamless or nearly seamless knitting in the round. The design incorporates cable needles as notions, indicating that cable stitch techniques are featured prominently in the pattern. Stitch markers are used throughout to help track pattern repeats and shaping increases or decreases. The construction method allows knitters to work efficiently while maintaining consistent gauge and stitch definition across the entire piece.

Stitches and Stitch Details

While the specific stitch patterns are detailed within the full pattern instructions, the inclusion of two cable needles in the notions list confirms that cable stitches form a key design element of the Harbor Lights Shell. Cable techniques add textural interest and visual depth to the garment, creating the "harbor lights" aesthetic that inspired the design name. The intermediate skill level indicates that knitters should be comfortable with cable crossing techniques, reading stitch patterns, and managing increases and decreases for proper garment shaping.

Yarn and Materials

The Harbor Lights Shell is designed to be knitted with DK weight yarn, classified as Light #3 on the yarn weight scale. The pattern calls for 660 to 1,229 yards of yarn depending on the chosen size, with yardage increasing proportionally for larger sizes. The sample garment shown was knitted in GGH Bambu, a yarn composed of 100% viscose from bamboo fiber. This yarn is available in 1¾ ounce balls, each containing 137 yards, requiring between 5 and 9 balls to complete the project depending on size. The bamboo viscose fiber creates a smooth, draping fabric with a subtle sheen, making it an excellent choice for a summer shell. Knitters will need US 4 (3.5 mm) circular needles in both 16-inch and 32-inch lengths to achieve the correct gauge, along with stitch markers and two cable needles to complete the project.