Ladies Tank Tops in Stylecraft ReLove - Downloadable PDF

Ladies Tank Tops in Stylecraft ReLove – Knitting Pattern Summary

This downloadable PDF knitting pattern from Stylecraft presents two ladies' tank top designs worked in Stylecraft ReLove Aran yarn. Both garments are sized to fit a wide range of figures, spanning dress sizes from 32/34 inches (81/86 cm) through to 52/54 inches (132/137 cm), making this an inclusive pattern that embraces a generous spread of larger sizes. The pattern is rated as intermediate difficulty, making it well suited to knitters who are comfortable with basic shaping and simple stitch patterns but are looking to develop their garment-making skills further.

About the Two Designs

Design One: Slim-Fit Tank Top

The first design is a slim-fit tank top, shaped to follow the body closely for a neat, contemporary silhouette. As the name suggests, this version is worked with a closer fit in mind, and the pattern provides actual measurements to guide sizing. The actual chest measurements for the slim-fit version range from 92 cm (36 inches) up to 142 cm (56 inches), reflecting the positive ease built into this style. The front of the garment is constructed using 4 mm needles, cast on, and worked from the lower edge upward.

Design Two: Semi-Fit Tank Top

The second design is a semi-fit tank top, offering a slightly more relaxed silhouette than the slim-fit version while still maintaining a flattering shape. The pattern provides separate chest and bust measurements for this design, with the to-fit chest/bust measurement ranging from 86 cm (34 inches) to 137 cm (54 inches). Like the slim-fit version, it is worked on 4 mm needles and cast on at the lower edge before being worked upward.

Techniques and Construction

Both tank tops are knitted flat in pieces using standard garment construction methods. The knitter works the front and back panels separately before seaming. This approach is ideal for intermediate knitters who are building confidence with garment shaping, including armhole and neckline shaping, which are typical features of a fitted tank top silhouette.

The stitch pattern used throughout both designs is a simple 2x2 rib, which creates a stretchy, textured fabric that is both flattering and practical for a fitted top. The ribbing is established as follows:

• Row 1 (right side): P1, k2, *p2, k2; repeat from * to last st, p1.
• Row 2: K1, p2, *k2, p2; repeat from * to last st, k1.

These two rows form the repeating rib pattern. The 2x2 rib stitch is a classic knitting technique that produces a fabric with natural elasticity, making it particularly well suited to close-fitting garments such as tank tops. The alternating knit and purl columns draw the fabric inward, helping the finished garment hug the body comfortably without the need for complex shaping throughout the body.

Stitches Used

• Knit stitch (k) – the foundation stitch of all knitting, creating a smooth V-shaped appearance on the right side.
• Purl stitch (p) – worked in combination with the knit stitch to create the ribbed texture.
• 2x2 Rib – the primary stitch pattern for both designs, formed by alternating two knit stitches with two purl stitches across each row.
• Cast on – used to set up the initial stitches at the lower edge of each panel.

Materials

Yarn

Both designs are worked in Stylecraft ReLove Aran, a yarn from Stylecraft's ReLove range. This is an aran weight yarn, which sits in the medium-to-heavy category and knits up relatively quickly, making it a satisfying choice for garment projects. The ReLove range from Stylecraft is notable for its sustainability credentials, appealing to knitters who are mindful of their environmental impact.

Needles

• 4 mm knitting needles