Pina colada

Pina Colada Fitted Summer Top

What is Being Made

The Pina Colada is a close-fitting summer top designed by Judy Furlong, originally published in GMC Knitting, Issue 15 (August 2005). This knitted garment features a distinctive peplum waist and floaty sleeves, making it an ideal layering piece for warm-weather wear. The top is engineered with no ease to ensure a snug, body-skimming silhouette, so accurate sizing and measurement consultation is essential before beginning your project.

Construction and Techniques

The Pina Colada employs several intermediate-level shaping techniques to achieve its fitted profile. The garment incorporates bust darts and side shaping to create a tailored fit across the torso. The construction method is efficient and modern: the top is worked in one piece from the peplum upward, with stitches picked up to form the body. Once the armholes are reached, the piece is divided into Front and Back sections. The sleeves are knitted as extensions of the Front and Back pieces, eliminating the need for separate sleeve cap shaping. Shoulder closure options include grafting, Three Needle Bind Off, or traditional cast-off with seaming.

Stitches Used

The primary stitch structure is stocking stitch (stockinette stitch), which creates a smooth, classic fabric ideal for a fitted summer garment. This fundamental knit stitch is worked throughout the body and sleeves, providing an elegant drape and clean aesthetic.

Yarn and Materials

This pattern is designed for DK weight yarn, which produces a lightweight, breathable fabric perfect for summer wear. The original yarn specified in the pattern is unfortunately discontinued; however, yarn substitution resources such as www.yarnsub.com can help identify suitable alternatives with similar fiber content and yardage requirements. A tension swatch is strongly recommended before beginning, as achieving the correct gauge is critical for proper fit given the close-fitting design.

Difficulty Level

Rated as intermediate, this pattern is suitable for knitters with foundational skills who are comfortable with shaping techniques, picking up stitches, and various finishing methods.