Daydreamer

Daydreamer Top by Kiri FitzGerald

What is Being Made

Daydreamer is a knitted top designed by Kiri FitzGerald. This intermediate-level garment is available in seven sizes to fit bust measurements ranging from 32 to 44 inches (81.3 to 111.8 cm), with actual finished bust measurements between 29 and 41 inches (73.7 to 104.1 cm). The design uses a combination of yarn weights and techniques to create a sophisticated layered effect.

Techniques and Construction

The Daydreamer employs a multi-yarn approach that combines different fiber blends and weights to achieve visual interest and varied drape. The construction utilizes magic loop technique for working small circumferences, allowing for seamless knitting in the round. The pattern requires careful attention to gauge swatching with both yarn types before beginning, as two distinct gauges must be verified: one for the heavier yarn and one for the lighter lace-weight yarn. This dual-gauge approach is essential to the design's success and proper fit.

The top is worked using circular needles in multiple sizes, enabling the knitter to transition between different needle gauges as yarn weights change throughout the construction. Blocking is required after completion to set the final measurements and achieve the correct gauge in the finished garment.

Stitches Used

Stockinette stitch forms the foundation of this design, worked in the round using circular needles. The pattern requires knitters to work with precision, as the interplay between the two different yarn weights and their respective gauges creates the intended silhouette and drape.

Materials and Yarn

Daydreamer is designed to be worked with two complementary yarns from Dream in Color:

• Dream in Color Smooshy – 100% Superwash Merino, approximately 450 yards per 4-ounce skein. The pattern calls for 2 to 3 skeins depending on size. The sample shown uses Navy Zeal colorway. This yarn is worked on the larger needles (US size 4 / 3.5mm).
• Dream in Color Wisp – 50% Merino and 50% Silk blend, approximately 550 yards per 2-ounce skein. One skein is required. The sample shown uses Blue Sulk colorway. This yarn is worked on the smallest needles (US size 1.5 / 2.5mm).

Needles and Notions

The pattern requires three circular needles in different sizes to accommodate the varying yarn weights and gauges:

• US size 4 (3.5mm) 32-inch (80cm) circular needle for working with Smooshy yarn
• US size 3 (3.25mm) 32-inch (80cm) circular needle
• US size 1.5 (2.5mm) long circular needle for magic loop technique

Additional notions include stitch markers, waste yarn or stitch holders for securing stitches, and two safety pins for holding small numbers of stitches during construction.

Gauge Information

Achieving correct gauge is critical for this design. When working Smooshy yarn with the larger needles after blocking, the gauge should measure 24 stitches and 36 rows over 4 inches in stockinette. When working Wisp yarn with the smallest needles after blocking, the gauge should measure 38 stitches and 48 rows over 4 inches in stockinette. The pattern emphasizes that both gauges must be verified before beginning the project.

Difficulty Level

This pattern is rated as intermediate, suitable for knitters with foundational skills in circular knitting, gauge swatching, and working with multiple yarn weights. The requirement to manage two different gauges and work seamlessly between them adds complexity beyond beginner projects.