Shirt Gambara

Shirt Gambara by Bunte Fussel

What is Being Made

The Shirt Gambara is an advanced-level knitted top designed by independent designer Bunte Fussel. This downloadable knitting pattern is available in four size options: 36/38, 40/42, 44/46, and 48/50, making it suitable for a range of body measurements. The garment showcases color-work potential through the use of gradient yarn, creating visual interest in the finished piece.

Techniques Used

This advanced knitting project employs several sophisticated techniques that contribute to its complexity level. The pattern utilizes cable knitting methods, as evidenced by the use of auxiliary needles (Hilfsnadel) for manipulating stitches. The construction method involves circular knitting using circular needles and double-pointed needles (Nadelspiel), which allows for seamless construction of the garment. The pattern also incorporates increases through the kfb (knit front back) technique, which creates two stitches from one by knitting through both the front and back loops of a single stitch, enabling shaping throughout the design.

Stitches Used

The Shirt Gambara pattern includes fundamental knitting stitches combined with more complex stitch work. The abbreviations used in the pattern include:

• M (Masche): Stitch
• Re (rechts): Knit stitch
• Li (links): Purl stitch
• Kfb (knit front back): Increase stitch created by knitting into the front loop and then the back loop of the same stitch
• U (Umschlag): Yarn over, creating decorative eyelets or lace effects
• Rd (Runde): Round, indicating circular knitting construction

The pattern references cable stitches worked with auxiliary needles, creating textured pattern sections that add visual depth to the garment.

Materials and Gauge

The Shirt Gambara is designed to be worked in 4-ply weight yarn, specifically using Bobbel Bonita from Bunte Fussel. This gradient yarn is a blend of 50% cotton and 50% acrylic, offering both breathability and durability suitable for a wearable garment. The yardage requirements vary by size: 800 meters for size 36/38, 1000 meters for size 40/42, 1200 meters for size 44/46, and 1500 meters for size 48/50.

The pattern is worked on 3.5mm circular needles and double-pointed needles for the main construction, with a 3.0mm crochet hook also required. The recommended gauge is 20 stitches by 35 rows over 10 centimeters, which is essential to achieving the correct finished measurements. Achieving proper gauge is particularly important in an advanced pattern where precise shaping and fit are critical to the garment's success.

Pattern Format

This pattern is provided as a downloadable PDF document, making it accessible for digital reference during knitting. The pattern includes German knitting abbreviations and instructions, reflecting the designer's origin with Bunte Fussel.