Departure Lounge

Departure Lounge Knit Top by Pat Menchini

What is Being Made

The Departure Lounge is a knitted top designed by Pat Menchini, available as a downloadable PDF pattern. This intermediate-level knitting project creates a fitted, wearable garment suitable for everyday wear. The pattern is graded across seven sizes, accommodating bust measurements from 76-81 cm (30-32 inches) up to 137-142 cm (54-56 inches), with corresponding actual bust measurements ranging from 102 cm to 165 cm. The top features a length to shoulder shaping that varies slightly by size, from 62 cm to 68 cm, making it a versatile piece for different body types and proportions.

Knitting Techniques and Construction

This intermediate knitting project employs fundamental knitting techniques centered around stockinette stitch as the primary fabric structure. The pattern requires careful tension management and gauge swatching before beginning, as achieving the correct tension is essential for proper fit across all seven size options. For the two largest sizes, the pattern recommends using circular needles rather than straight needles, which is a practical consideration for managing larger stitch counts and ensuring even tension distribution across wider garment pieces.

Stitches Used

The primary stitch used throughout the Departure Lounge is stockinette stitch (st st), which creates a smooth, classic knit fabric with a flat appearance on the right side and bumpy texture on the wrong side. This fundamental stitch is worked over the specified tension of 21 stitches and 30 rows to 10 centimeters (4 inches) when using 4 mm needles. The consistent use of stockinette stitch throughout the garment creates a refined, professional finish suitable for a contemporary knit top.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The Departure Lounge pattern specifies Rico-Design Fashion Light & Long DK yarn in shade Purple Mix 004. This DK-weight yarn provides 200 metres (218 yards) per 50-gram ball. Yarn requirements vary by size, ranging from 4 balls for the smallest size up to 6 balls for the largest sizes, making this an economical project requiring between 200-300 metres of yarn depending on the chosen size.

The pattern calls for one pair of 4 mm (UK 8, US 6) knitting needles as the primary tool. As noted above, knitters working on the two largest sizes may find circular needles of the same gauge more comfortable for managing the increased stitch count. The specified needle size works in conjunction with the stated yarn weight to achieve the required tension of 21 stitches and 30 rows per 10 centimeters.

Pattern Notes

Yarn amounts provided in the pattern are approximate and based on average requirements. Knitters should verify that replacement yarn options maintain the same tension as specified in the pattern to ensure proper fit and drape of the finished garment. The pattern recommends testing tension before beginning the project, adjusting to a finer needle if the initial swatch is too loose, or a larger needle if too tight.