K740-Orchid Top

K740 – Orchid Top by Nazanin Fard

What Is Being Made

The K740 Orchid Top is a short-sleeved cardigan-style knit garment featuring a V-neckline and open front closure. This intermediate-level knitting project combines decorative panel work with an all-over stitch pattern, creating a sophisticated layering piece. The top is available in four sizes ranging from Small to X-Large, with finished bust measurements of 34" (86 cm), 39" (99 cm), 45" (114 cm), and 50" (127 cm), and a finished length of 21" (53 cm).

Design Features

The garment showcases distinctive Orchid panels positioned on both sides of the front opening, providing visual interest and structural definition. The remainder of the body is worked in an easy Cloverleaf Eyelet pattern, which creates a delicate, textured appearance throughout the piece. The strategic placement of decreases along the outside edge of the Orchid panels ensures the decorative motif remains uninterrupted, maintaining design integrity. The front opening is finished with six ½" (13 mm) pearl buttons, adding both functional closure and elegant detailing.

Knitting Techniques and Stitches

This intermediate project employs several key knitting techniques. The Cloverleaf Eyelet pattern creates openwork sections that add visual texture and breathability to the garment. Set-in sleeves are used for a tailored fit, with sleeve length to underarm measuring 6" (15 cm) and armhole depths ranging from 8" (20 cm) to 9" (23 cm) depending on size. Decreases are strategically worked on the outside edges of the Orchid panels to shape the garment while preserving the integrity of the decorative panel design. The construction requires working with stitch markers to track pattern repeats and stitch holders to manage stitches during assembly.

Materials and Tools

The K740 Orchid Top requires medium (worsted) weight yarn in a cotton-acrylic blend composition of 50% Cotton and 50% Acrylic. Yardage requirements vary by size: Small requires 831 yards (760 m), Medium requires 968 yards (885 m), Large requires 1039 yards (950 m), and X-Large requires 1143 yards (1045 m). The sample shown is worked in Lilac colorway. Knitting is worked on size 8 (5 mm) needles with a stitch gauge of 18 stitches and 24 rows equaling 4" (10 cm) in Stockinette stitch. Additional materials include a tapestry needle for weaving in ends, stitch markers for pattern tracking, stitch holders for managing live stitches, a sewing needle, and matching thread for attaching the pearl button closures.

Skill Level

Rated as an intermediate difficulty project, the K740 Orchid Top is suitable for knitters with foundational skills who are ready to tackle multi-stitch patterns, set-in sleeve construction, and decorative panel work. The combination of eyelet patterning and strategic shaping makes this an engaging project that builds technical proficiency.