Cassis top

Cassis Top by lille Larsen

What Is Being Made

The Cassis top is a sleeveless knitted garment designed as a fitted, contemporary piece. This pattern offers eight sizes ranging from 2XS through 3XL, with finished bust circumferences from 81 cm (32") to 116 cm (46"). The design combines structural shaping with decorative braid patterning, creating a sophisticated silhouette suitable for layering or wearing as a standalone piece.

Construction Method

The Cassis top is knit from the bottom up in the round using a seamless construction technique. The lower body is worked continuously in the round until the armhole shaping begins. At this point, the front and back are separated and worked flat to accommodate the neckline and armhole shaping. This hybrid approach—combining circular knitting with flat sections—allows for efficient construction while maintaining pattern continuity.

Stitch Patterns and Techniques

The pattern features a distinctive braid motif that runs vertically up the center front and center back of the garment. This braid pattern continues from the cast-on edge through to the armhole. Once the armhole is reached, the braid pattern transitions to an alternated form, with a single twist positioned symmetrically on either side of the neckline opening. This creates visual balance and draws attention to the neckline area.

Additional stitch techniques employed in the Cassis top include:

• Twisted cable straps: The armhole straps are formed using a twisted cable construction, adding textural interest and structural integrity to the shoulder area.
• Kitchener stitch: The twisted cable straps are sewn onto the corresponding back straps using Kitchener stitch, a grafting technique that creates an invisible seam and seamless join.
• I-cord edging: The armhole edges are finished with an ongoing i-cord, which provides a neat, professional edge and adds a subtle design detail.

Yarn and Needle Requirements

The Cassis top is designed to be worked with 4-ply or sport weight yarn, which provides a refined drape and allows the stitch patterns to be clearly visible. The pattern is worked on 3.5 mm (US 4) circular needles measuring 60–80 cm (24–32") in length for working the body in the round, with 3.5 mm (US 4) double-pointed needles used for smaller circumferences or when transitioning to flat sections.

Difficulty Level and Gauge Considerations

This pattern is rated as intermediate difficulty, making it suitable for knitters with foundational skills who are ready to tackle more complex stitch patterns and construction techniques. The pattern includes a gauge guideline; however, the designer notes that the gauge can vary by a few stitches without significantly affecting the pattern integrity or final garment shape.

An important design note: the textures used in the Cassis top tend to relax and ease after washing, resulting in a slightly wider finished garment. This is a natural characteristic of the stitch patterns and yarn weight used, and knitters should account for this when selecting their size.