Bubble Top in Lion Brand Homespun Thick & Quick - L32228

Bubble Top in Lion Brand Homespun Thick & Quick – Free Knitting Pattern L32228

The Bubble Top (Pattern Number L32228) is a free downloadable knitting pattern from Lion Brand Yarn that produces a relaxed, oversized pullover top with a distinctive textured bubble effect. Designed for knitters at an Intermediate+ (Level 4) skill level, this pattern offers a satisfying project that combines straightforward construction with more advanced shaping and stitch techniques. The finished garment is intentionally oversized, making it a comfortable, fashion-forward layering piece suitable for a wide range of body types.

Sizes and Finished Measurements

The pattern is written to accommodate six sizes: Small, Medium, Large, 1X, 2X, and 3X. Finished bust measurements range from 46 inches (117 cm) for the smallest size up to 55 inches (139.5 cm) for the largest. Finished length ranges from 17 inches (43 cm) to 19½ inches (49.5 cm) depending on size. Because the top is intentionally oversized, knitters are encouraged to circle all numbers pertaining to their chosen size before beginning to avoid confusion when working through the instructions.

Materials and Yarn

The pattern calls for Lion Brand Homespun Thick & Quick yarn (Article #792), specifically in the colorway Granite Stripes (shade 211). This bulky-weight yarn is composed of 88% Acrylic and 12% Polyester, making it durable, easy to care for, and widely accessible. Each pull skein contains 160 yards (146 meters) and weighs 8 oz (227 g). Depending on size, the pattern requires 2 to 3 balls of yarn, making it a relatively economical project in terms of materials.

Needles and Additional Tools

• Lion Brand Size 13 (9 mm) 29-inch (75 cm) circular knitting needles – the primary needles used throughout the body of the top
• Lion Brand Size 11 (8 mm) knitting needles – used specifically for the neck bind-off only
• Circular needle size 9 (5.5 mm), 24 inches (61 cm) long – used exclusively for the neckband
• Lion Brand Stitch Holders – for holding live stitches during construction
• Lion Brand Split Ring Stitch Markers – for tracking pattern repeats and shaping points
• Lion Brand Large-Eye Blunt Needles (Set of 6) – for seaming and weaving in ends

The use of circular needles for a flat or in-the-round project with bulky yarn helps manage the weight of the fabric comfortably, reducing strain on the hands and wrists during longer knitting sessions.

Gauge

The recommended gauge is 10 stitches and 12 rows = 4 inches (10 cm) in Stockinette stitch using the larger (Size 13 / 9 mm) needle. Achieving correct gauge is especially important in a sized garment like this top, as even small deviations can significantly affect the finished bust and length measurements. Knitters are strongly encouraged to swatch and adjust needle size as needed before casting on.

Stitches and Techniques Used

This pattern employs a combination of classic and slightly more advanced knitting techniques, which is why it is rated at the Intermediate+ level. Key stitches and methods include:

• Stockinette stitch (St st) – the foundational fabric of the top, created by knitting on right-side rows and purling on wrong-side rows, producing a smooth, classic knitted surface
• kfb (knit in front and back) – an increase stitch worked by knitting into the front of a stitch without removing it from the left needle, then knitting through the back loop of the same stitch, resulting in a one-stitch increase; this technique is commonly used for shaping in garment knitting
• Bubble texture stitch – the signature design element of this top, creating raised, three-dimensional bubble or bobble-like clusters across the fabric for visual and tactile interest