Tops in Stylecraft Special DK - 10222 - Downloadable PDF

Stylecraft Special DK Tops – Pattern 10222: Two Easy Slip Stitch Designs for Children

Pattern 10222 from Stylecraft is a downloadable PDF knitting pattern featuring two children's tops worked in Stylecraft Special DK yarn. Sized to fit children aged 2–11 years, with chest measurements ranging from 56 cm (22 in) to 76 cm (66 cm actual measurement), these designs are rated advanced beginner and are described as easy slip stitch designs. The pattern covers both a Round Neck Top and a collared variation, each available with long or short sleeve options.

What Is Being Made

The pattern produces two children's knitted tops in DK weight yarn. Both garments are designed for everyday wear and are sized across five size brackets to fit ages 2–3, 4–5, 6–7, 8–9, and 10–11 years. The Round Neck Top is one of the featured designs, and a back-of-collar top (noted as being approximately 5 cm / 2 in longer at the back) is also included. Sleeve options include:

• Long sleeves – ranging from 24 cm (9½ in) to 41 cm (16 in) depending on size
• Short sleeves – ranging from 5 cm (2 in) to 7 cm (2¾ in) depending on size

Sizing and Measurements

The pattern provides detailed measurements across all five sizes:

• To fit chest: 56, 61, 66, 71, 76 cm (22, 24, 26, 28, 30 in)
• Actual measurement: 63, 68, 72.5, 77, 82 cm (24¾, 26¾, 28½, 30¼, 32¼ in)
• Full length at front: 33, 39, 43, 49, 53 cm (13, 15¼, 17, 19¼, 20¾ in)

Techniques Used

Both tops are constructed using classic flat knitting techniques, working the back and front pieces separately before seaming. The pattern makes use of slip stitch patterning as its primary decorative technique, which is well suited to advanced beginner knitters as it creates visual texture without requiring complex colour work or cable needles. Additional shaping techniques referenced in the pattern include:

• Twisted rib – used for the welts and cuffs, created by working into the back of the loop on both knit and purl stitches
• p2tog (purl two together) – a basic decrease used during shaping transitions
• Slip stitch patterns – the main body stitch patterns for both tops, giving texture and interest without requiring advanced techniques
• Needle changes – the pattern transitions from smaller needles (for the rib) to larger needles (for the main body), a standard technique for achieving correct tension and drape

Stitches Used

The following stitches and stitch patterns appear in this pattern:

• Twisted rib – Row 1 (RS): P1, *k1tbl, p1; rep from * to end. Row 2: K1, *p1tbl, k1; rep from * to end. Working into the back of the loop twists each stitch, creating a firmer, more defined rib than standard 1×1 rib.
• Slip stitch pattern – the main body stitch used across both designs, creating surface texture through the selective slipping of stitches without working them
• Stocking stitch – referenced as a fallback where there are insufficient stitches to work a full twist pattern repeat
• Standard cast on – used to begin the back piece

Understanding Twisted Rib

Twisted rib is a popular choice for children's garments because it is more elastic and visually crisper than standard rib.