Japonica

Japonica Knitted Top by JustJussi

What is Being Made

Japonica is a fitted knitted top designed by Justine Turner for children, available in seven sizes ranging from 6 months to 10 years old. The garment features a negative 10% ease at the chest, creating a fitted silhouette. This downloadable PDF knitting pattern is classified as an intermediate-level project, making it suitable for knitters with some experience beyond basic techniques.

Yarn and Materials

The Japonica pattern calls for Madelinetosh Tosh DK yarn, a 100% merino wool fiber in the DK (double knit) weight category. Each 100g skein yields 206 meters or 225 yards. Yardage requirements vary by size: the smallest size (6 months) requires 200 meters (220 yards), while the largest size (10 years) needs 680 meters (744 yards). Knitters will need appropriate needles for DK-weight yarn to achieve proper gauge and fabric drape.

Knitting Techniques and Stitches

The Japonica pattern incorporates fundamental knitting techniques suitable for an intermediate skill level. The design utilizes garter stitch, created by knitting every row, which produces a textured, reversible fabric with horizontal ridges. The pattern includes increases and decreases (inc/dec) to shape the garment pieces and achieve the fitted chest measurement. Construction involves a 3-needle bind off technique, an advanced finishing method that joins two pieces of knitting together while simultaneously casting off. This technique requires arranging stitches on two needles with right sides together, then using a third needle to knit corresponding stitches from both needles together and bind them off in one seamless operation, creating a strong, neat seam.

Sizing and Fit

The pattern accommodates actual chest measurements of 45 to 70 centimeters (18 to 28 inches) across the seven child sizes. The fitted design with negative ease ensures the garment hugs the body comfortably without excess fabric.