Knitted Top Pattern (Free Women's Knit For Summer)

This post shows a knitted top pattern (free women’s knit for summer).

This short-sleeved top is perfect for summer days.

Made from cotton in two different colors, it is super easy to knit with no shaping involved.

Knit A Summer Light Top

The knitted top is really easy for beginner knitters.

It is knit in The Cotton from We Are Knitters in two colors.

Perfect to wear to the beach to throw on over your swimwear.

Knitted Top Pattern

Skill Level – Basic (Beginner)

Notes

The top is knit in two square pieces and then seamed together at the shoulders and sides, leaving openings for the armholes.

The top is worked in garter stitch and has a repeat row of dropped stitches.

This is a fast project with no shaping.

The stitches and techniques you need to know…

The stitches used in this knitted top pattern are the knit stitch, garter stitch, and drop stitch.

There is a repeat pattern over 6 rows that includes one row of dropped stitches.

The top is made by creating two pieces and stitching them together; there is no shaping, making it super easy and quick to knit.

Shop the printable PDF pattern…

Please scroll down to view the free pattern online, or grab the inexpensive ad-free PDF in my shop here.

Copyright Info

Please do not copy, sell, redistribute, or republish this pattern.
If you wish to share this pattern, please provide a link to the pattern page only.
You may sell items produced using this pattern.
Do NOT use the copyrighted photos for your product listing.
For the copyright T&C, please read my Terms of Use.

Size Information

Gauge

12 sts in 21 rows in 10×10 cm/4×4 inches in the 6-row rep pattern.

Measurements/Sizes

The sizes – S / M / L-XL / 1X / 2X / 3X / 4X / 5X
Finished Bust About – 36 (38, 40, 42, 46, 48, 50, 54) in.
Finished Length About – 25 inches.To make the top in a larger size, you can cast on more stitches x 6 -so for the next size up, you cast on 112, then 118, etc.
You will also need to purchase more yarn if you are making the top in a larger size, than what is listed in the pattern.
Please read the notes below on how to adjust the length of the top before you start.

Adjusting the length of your top…

The length measures around – 64 cm/25 inches.

The length of the 6 rows measures around – 5 cm/2 inches.

Adjust the length to make the top shorter…

Reduce the number of rows you knit in each color.
For example, instead of working the 6 rows 5 times more in each color, you could work those 6 rows 3 times more or 4 times more.
Each time you minus the 6 rows you are taking off 5 cm/2 inches.

Adjust the length to make the top longer…

To make it longer, add more rows to each color.
For example, instead of working the 6 rows 5 times more in each color, you could work those 6 rows 6 times more or 7 times more, etc until you get your desired length.
Each time you add a set of 6 rows you are adding a further 5 cm/2 inches.

The supplies you need…

Yarn

2 (2, 2, 2, 3, 3, 3, 4) x We Are Knitters – The Cotton in the color Aquamarine.
1 (1, 1, 1, 2, 2, 2, 2) x We Are Knitters – The Cotton in the color Natural.
This cotton is 100% Pima Cotton/10g/3.05oz/232 yds/212m.
Use my code – MGM4VHHAT – for 10 off on your WAK yarn order.

Needles

6 mm (US 10) knitting needles.
I used interchangeable circulars on a 24″ cable to accommodate the number of stitches.
This top is knit flat, not in the round.

Notions

Scissors.
Darning needle.
Tape measure.

Abbreviations

You can grab a free list of US and UK knitting terms here.

CO – cast on
Cont – continue
K – knit
St(s) – stitch(es)
Rep – repeat

Beginner Knitted Top Pattern

Front and back…

This top is knit in two panels with no shaping.

Knit one panel in Yarn A – Aquamarine
Knit one panel in Yarn B – Natural

With Yarn A and 6 mm (US 10) knitting needles cast on 63 (69, 75, 81) sts

Rows 1-4: Knit
Row 5: K1 (edge), *Insert the right-hand needle into the st on the left-hand needle as if to knit, then wind the yarn 2 times around the needle and K1, rep from * to last st, K1 (edge).
Row 6: Knit each st, working into the 1st loop and allowing the 2 extra loops to slip off the needle to their full length.

The last 6 rows form the pattern.

Continue to rep the 6 rows above 5 times more in Yarn A.

Then change color to Yarn B and rep the 6 rows 5 times more.

Change color to Yarn A and rep the 6 rows 5 times more.

Rep Rows 1-4 once more casting off on row 4.

Notes on adjusting the length

The length measures around – 64 cm/25 inches.

Adjust the length to make the top shorter – reduce the number of rows you knit in each color.

To make it longer, add more rows to each color.

Making up

Sew in all loose ends (weave along the seams).

Place the wrong sides on top of each other.

Seam the shoulder seams

Fix each shoulder seam together using the mattress stitch for 13 cm/5 inches or longer if you wish.

Seam the sides

Then, seam the white section (middle color block) side seams only = 15 cm/6 inches.

This will leave an opening for the armholes on either side and a large split on either side for the lower blue stripe section.

Grab The Free Printable

Knitted Top Pattern Here

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Could you share your work with us?

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You can also find us on Pinterest, Ravelry, and Twitter.

I’d love to see your work.

Happy Knitting!

You might also want to make matching items…

You may also want to make matching items to take with you on vacation!

View those patterns here:

Bucket hat knit in cotton and cotton top

Knitting Lessons

If you are a new knitter and need help with the knitting basics, check out these posts here and be your own knitting instructor – Knitting Lessons (With Video Tutorials).

There, you will find step-by-step tutorials for all the different knitting techniques a newbie needs to know.

Including how to cast on, how to bind off, how to knit the basic stitches, how to knit the knit stitch, how to knit the purl stitch, the stockinette stitch, how to knit the seed stitch, the rib stitch, the simple garter stitch, the mattress stitch, short rows, how to yarn over(yo), how to measure gauge, how to fix knitting mistakes, and a list of knitting abbreviations (UK + US terms), how to knit the linen stitch, and more.

For an easy level knitting pattern, check out this pattern category for more recommendations, there, you will find a range of knitting patterns- Beginner Knitters

For a complete guide on learning how to knit, check out this post: How to Knit – A Complete Beginner’s Guide

And if you need more video tutorials to help you practice your basic knitting skills, check out my YouTube channel here – Handy Little Me – YouTube.

For a crochet pattern, check out this pattern category – Free Crochet Patterns

Resources and tutorials you may find helpful in following this pattern:

This pattern is great for beginners.

What Is The Best Yarn For A Knitted Top?

The best yarn for a tee top depends on various factors, such as the desired drape, texture, and breathability of the garment, as well as personal preferences.

For a lightweight and breathable top suitable for warmer weather, natural fibers like cotton, linen, bamboo, or blends of these fibers are often preferred.

These fibers offer excellent moisture-wicking properties and breathability, making them comfortable to wear in hot and humid conditions.

Additionally, they tend to have a smooth and soft texture, providing a comfortable feel against the skin.

Also, they are machine washable and don’t require extraordinary care.

As for yarn weight, a DK (double knitting), sport weight yarn, aran, or worsted weight yarn is typically ideal for knitted tops, as it creates a fabric that is neither too heavy nor too sheer, striking a balance between structure and drape.

For unique results, you can combine different strands of yarn, combine cotton with merino wool yarn.

You can use bulky yarn for a cute winter top.

However, the specific yarn weight can vary depending on the desired gauge and fabric density for the project.

Ultimately, the best yarn choice will depend on factors such as the climate you live in, the intended use of the top, and your personal preferences for texture and feel.

Remember, when you adjust the yarn weight, you should adjust the needle size.

My favorite yarns for summer tops are The Cotton – We Are Knitters, Lion Brand Yarn 24/7 Cotton, Paintbox Yarns Cotton DK.

Learn everything about the different yarn weights here – Yarn Weight Guide {+ Conversion Chart}
Learn everything about yarn fibers here – Yarn Types Explained: A Guide To Different Fibers
Learn how to read a yarn label here – How To Read A Yarn Label (Step By Step)

How Many Styles of Summer Knitted Tops Are There?

A knit top, like all handmade pieces, can be transformed into various designs.

Some popular styles of summer knitted tops include a lightweight tank top and camisole, as well as a top with short sleeves that provide a breezy option for hot days while offering versatility in layering.

Off-the-shoulder tops are another trendy choice, featuring a neckline that exposes the shoulders and collarbones for a chic and feminine look.

Halter tops, with their neckline that wraps around the neck, offer a flattering silhouette and are perfect for staying cool while adding a touch of sophistication.

An easy sleeveless crop top or an asymmetrical crop top, a sleeveless top, often crafted from breathable cotton or linen yarn yarns, provides a stylish and playful option for summer outings, while tunics offer a relaxed and effortless style that can be dressed up or down for various occasions.

Additionally, lightweight tees and T-shirts in breathable cotton or bamboo yarns provide essential wardrobe staples for casual summer days.

These are just a few examples of the diverse range of knitted top styles available for the summer season, catering to different tastes, preferences, and body types while keeping you cool and stylish in the heat.

You can find many patterns for knitted tops online including vintage treasures in websites like Knit Picks, Purl Soho, Drops Design, Red Heart, or the Etsy app.

How To Measure For A Knitted Summer Top?

To measure for a knitted summer top, start by measuring the bust circumference at the fullest part of the bust, ensuring the tape is parallel to the ground.

Then, measure the waist circumference at the narrowest part of the torso.

These measurements will help determine the appropriate size to knit. If the summer top includes sleeves, measure the circumference of the upper arm where the sleeve will sit, ensuring it’s not too tight or restrictive.

Additionally, consider the desired length of the top, measuring from the shoulder to the desired hemline.

Take note of any knitted top pattern instructions regarding ease or shaping to ensure the correct fit.

By measuring accurately and selecting the correct size based on bust, waist, sleeve, and hem measurements, you can ensure a well-fitting knitted summer top for your body type.

What Supplies Do You Need To Knit A Summer Top?

To knit a summer top, you’ll need several craft supplies to get started.

Essential supplies include scissors for cutting yarn, stitch markers to keep track of your stitches or pattern repeats, and a tape measure to check your gauge and dimensions.

A tasperty or a yarn needle to seam the front panel to the back panel if you are not doing a seamless construction.

Depending on the design of the top, you might also need buttons, beads, or other embellishments.

With these supplies in hand, you’ll be ready to knit a stylish and breezy summer top that is perfect for warm weather wear.

Knitted Top Pattern (Free Women’s Knit For Summer)