Summer Stripes

Summer Stripes Knitted Top by Pat Menchini

What is Being Made

Summer Stripes is a knitted top designed by Pat Menchini, available as a downloadable PDF pattern. This garment is a striped knit top suitable for warm weather wear, offered in five size options ranging from 76-81 cm to 117-122 cm bust measurements (30-32 to 46-48 inches). The finished garment features a relaxed fit with actual bust measurements ranging from 84 cm to 124 cm (33 to 49 inches), and a length to shoulder shaping of approximately 56-58 cm (22 to 23 inches).

Craft and Techniques

This is an intermediate-level knitting project that incorporates striped colorwork throughout the design. The pattern uses a straightforward knit construction with shaping at the shoulders, making it accessible to knitters with some experience but not suitable for complete beginners. The use of multiple yarn colors in a striped arrangement requires careful attention to color changes and tension consistency throughout the project.

Stitches and Construction

The pattern is worked over a stitch and row gauge of 31 stitches and 38 rows to 10 cm (4 inches) using the 4 mm needles over the stitch pattern. The construction involves working in the round or flat with subsequent shoulder shaping. Stitch holders are used during construction, indicating that stitches are held for later finishing work, such as neckline or armhole completion.

Materials and Yarn

• Yarn: Rico Essentials Cotton DK weight (120 metres/131 yards per 50g ball)
• Color A (Silver 03): 3-5 balls depending on size
• Color B (Lemon 62): 3-4 balls depending on size
• Color C (White 80): 3-5 balls depending on size
• Needles: 3 mm (UK 11, US 2.5) and 4 mm (UK 8, US 6) knitting needles
• Notions: 2 stitch holders

The DK weight cotton yarn is an excellent choice for a summer garment, providing breathability and a lightweight drape ideal for warm weather. The three-color striped design in Silver, Lemon, and White creates a fresh, summery aesthetic. Yarn amounts are approximate and based on average requirements; substitutions should match the stated tension to ensure proper fit and finished dimensions.