Tops in King Cole Cottonsoft DK - 4519 - Downloadable PDF

Tops Knitted in King Cole Cottonsoft DK – Pattern 4519

This King Cole pattern 4519 is a collection of knitted tops designed for adults, covering a wide range of sizes from 71/76 cm to 112/117 cm (28/30 in to 44/46 in) bust measurement. Presented as a downloadable PDF, this is an advanced-level knitting pattern that challenges experienced knitters with a combination of textured stitch patterns and cable techniques worked in a lightweight, breathable yarn. The finished garments are ideal for warmer seasons, thanks to the cotton-rich composition of the recommended yarn.

Yarn and Materials

The pattern is designed specifically for King Cole Cottonsoft DK, a double knit weight yarn celebrated for its soft handle and cotton content, making it a popular choice for summer tops and garments worn close to the skin. Knitters should use 4mm (US size 6) knitting needles, or whichever needle size is needed to achieve the correct tension. A cable needle (CN) is also required for working the cable sections of the design.

Tension

Achieving the correct tension is essential before beginning this pattern. The stated tensions are:

• 29 stitches and 28 rows to 10 cm (4 in) over the main pattern using 4mm needles
• 22 stitches and 28 rows to 10 cm (4 in) over stocking stitch using 4mm needles

Knitters are strongly advised to work a tension square before casting on for the garment, as an incorrect tension will affect the finished size and drape of the top.

Stitches and Techniques Used

This advanced pattern draws on a variety of knitting stitches and techniques. Knitters working from this pattern should be comfortable with the following:

• Knit (K) and Purl (P) – the foundational stitches used throughout, forming the basis of stocking stitch and textured pattern panels
• Stocking stitch – a classic smooth fabric formed by alternating knit and purl rows, used for body sections
• Cable techniques – worked using a cable needle (CN), cables create twisted rope-like textures that add visual interest and structure to the tops
• Yarn forward (yfwd) and yarn over needle (yon) – techniques used to create decorative eyelets or to increase stitches, often associated with lace-style detailing
• Slip stitch (s1 knitways) – a technique where a stitch is moved from one needle to the other without being worked, used in shaping and decorative methods
• Pass slipped stitch over (psso) – used in combination with slip stitches to create neat decreases, commonly seen in lace and shaping sequences
• Decrease (dec) methods including knitting stitches together (tog) – used for shaping armholes, necklines, and other structural elements of the garment

Pattern Construction and Design

The tops in this pattern are constructed using a combination of textured stitch patterns and classic shaping techniques familiar to experienced knitters. The use of both a patterned tension gauge and a stocking stitch tension gauge suggests that the garments feature distinct panels — some worked in an all-over or repeating decorative pattern, and others in the smoother stocking stitch. This combination creates visual contrast and a professional, polished finish.

The inclusion of cable needle work elevates the difficulty level, as cables require careful counting of stitches and rows to ensure the twists occur at the correct intervals. The advanced difficulty rating reflects the need to manage multiple techniques simultaneously, including shaping and pattern repeats.

Sizing

The pattern covers a generous size range, making it suitable for a variety of figures:

• Bust sizes: 71/76 cm through to 112/117 cm (approximately 28/30 in to 44/46 in)

This inclusive range means the pattern can be worked up for smaller through to larger bust measurements, with shaping instructions adapted accordingly throughout.

Charitable Contribution

As noted within the pattern, King Cole makes a donation to the