Tarnhelm

Tarnhelm Knitted Top by Natalia Prats

What Is Being Made

Tarnhelm is an intermediate-level knitted top designed by Natalia Prats. Inspired by the legendary magic helmet from Germanic mythology, this garment is engineered to flatter the wearer's figure through strategic shaping. The design features waist shaping and is constructed by knitting flat rather than in the round, allowing for tailored fit adjustments. The top is available in five sizes, ranging from a bust measurement of 107cm (42 inches) to 152cm (60 inches), making it suitable for a wide range of body types.

Knitting Techniques Used

This garment employs several key knitting techniques to achieve its flattering silhouette. The piece is knit flat on straight needles, meaning it is worked in rows rather than in the round, which allows for easier shaping and seaming. Waist shaping is incorporated into the construction, creating definition and a fitted appearance. The stitch pattern used is a variation of a main pattern stitch, which adds visual interest and texture to the finished garment beyond basic stockinette stitch.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The primary stitches used in Tarnhelm are fundamental knitting stitches:

• Knit stitch (k): The basic stitch that forms the foundation of the fabric
• Purl stitch (p): Used in combination with knit stitches to create texture and pattern variation
• Stockinette stitch (St st): A classic stitch combination of alternating knit and purl rows, which may be used in sections of the garment

The main pattern stitch is a variation that combines these fundamental stitches to create a decorative texture. The gauge for this pattern is 21 stitches and 28 rows per 10cm (4 inches) square, which is important to achieve the correct finished measurements and fit.

Materials: Yarn and Needles

The recommended yarn for Tarnhelm is DROPS Muskat, a 100% mercerised Egyptian cotton yarn. This natural fiber choice provides breathability and a refined drape, making it ideal for a fitted top. The yarn comes in 50-gram skeins with 100 meters of yardage per skein. The pattern calls for 12 to 14 skeins depending on size, with the sample garment shown in Bordeaux colorway. Knitters may substitute another DK-weight yarn of similar characteristics if preferred.

The needles required are 4mm (US size 6) needles, or whatever size is necessary to achieve the correct gauge of 21 stitches and 28 rows in 10cm. Checking gauge before beginning is essential to ensure the finished garment will fit as intended.