Roll Sleeve Top

Roll Sleeve Top by Sian Brown

What is Being Made

The Roll Sleeve Top is a classic knitted garment designed by independent designer Sian Brown. This top features a simple, elegant silhouette with distinctive rolled sleeves that add a modern touch to a traditional design. The pattern is available in eight different sizes, accommodating bust measurements from 82cm (32 inches) to 117cm (46 inches), with finished bust measurements ranging from 94cm (37 inches) to 132cm (52 inches). The length to shoulder varies from 60cm to 67cm (23¾ to 26½ inches) across the size range, making it suitable for various body proportions and personal length preferences.

Techniques and Construction

This knitting pattern employs fundamental techniques appropriate for beginner to intermediate knitters. The garment is constructed using the classic method of knitting flat pieces that are subsequently assembled. The pattern begins with a ribbed cuff worked on smaller needles to create elasticity and structure at the cast-on edge. The main body is then worked on larger needles in stockinette stitch, which creates the smooth, classic fabric characteristic of everyday knitwear. Sleeve shaping is incorporated through strategic cast-on increases, a technique that allows the sleeves to be integrated seamlessly into the garment construction. The rolled sleeve detail is achieved through the natural curling properties of stockinette stitch edges, eliminating the need for additional finishing techniques.

Stitches Used

The Roll Sleeve Top utilizes a limited stitch vocabulary, making it accessible for knitters developing their foundational skills. The primary stitch throughout the garment is stockinette stitch (st st), which consists of alternating knit and purl rows to create a smooth, flat fabric with a distinctive V-pattern texture on the right side. The pattern begins with ribbing, specifically a 2x2 rib (k2, p2), which is worked at the cast-on edge to provide elasticity and a neat, finished appearance. The abbreviations used include standard knitting notation: k for knit, p for purl, and skpo (slip 1, knit 1, pass slipped stitch over) for decreasing stitches where necessary during shaping.

Materials and Specifications

This pattern calls for Debbie Bliss Amalfi yarn in shade 25, a DK weight yarn that provides excellent drape and wearability for a garment intended for regular wear. The yardage requirements vary by size, ranging from 11 balls to 15 balls of 50g weight, with most sizes requiring 13 to 14 balls. This yarn choice ensures a fabric with good stitch definition that showcases the simplicity of the stockinette stitch construction. Two pairs of needles are required: 3.75mm (US size 5) needles for the ribbed sections and 4mm (US size 6) needles for the main body. The pattern specifies a tension of 22 stitches and 30 rows to 10cm over stockinette stitch using the 4mm needles, which is essential for achieving the correct finished measurements and garment fit.

Difficulty Level

Designated as a beginner-level pattern, the Roll Sleeve Top is ideal for knitters who have mastered basic techniques and are ready to tackle their first fitted garment. The straightforward stitch selection, minimal shaping, and clear construction method make this an excellent project for building confidence in garment assembly and understanding how pieces come together to create a wearable item.