Catrine Top in MODE at Rowan Cotton DK

Catrine Top in MODE at Rowan Cotton DK

What Is Being Made

The Catrine Top is a knitted garment designed by Quail Studio, available in nine size options ranging from 28-30 inches to 60-62 inches bust measurement. This intermediate-level knitting project creates a fitted top with an actual bust measurement ranging from 91 cm (35¾ inches) for the smallest size to 171 cm (67¼ inches) for the largest size. The garment features a structured design suitable for everyday wear.

Knitting Techniques Used

The Catrine Top employs several fundamental knitting techniques to create its finished fabric. Cable knitting is a primary technique featured in the pattern, specifically using the C2B (cable 2 back) stitch, which involves slipping a stitch onto a cable needle and holding it behind the work while knitting the next stitch from the left-hand needle. This creates the characteristic twisted rope effect typical of cable knit designs. The pattern also incorporates yarn forward (yfrn) increases, which add stitches while creating decorative eyelet details in the fabric. The construction method includes knitting flat pieces on straight needles and finishing with a neckband worked on a circular needle, demonstrating classic top-down or seamless construction principles.

Stitches and Pattern Details

The Catrine Top utilizes a combination of essential knitting stitches to build its structure. The lower body features a repeating pattern that combines purl stitches (P2) with cable stitches (C2B), creating a textured, dimensional fabric. The pattern instructions reference working into double yarn forwards, which creates small openings in the knit fabric for visual interest. Garter stitch elements and stockinette stitch form the foundation of various sections. The neckband is worked using a 40 cm circular needle, allowing for seamless finishing around the neckline. Stitch markers are used throughout to help track pattern repeats and maintain consistency across the garment.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The Catrine Top is designed to be worked in Cotton DK weight yarn, a lightweight yarn classification that produces a breathable, drape-friendly fabric ideal for tops. The pattern calls for MODE at Rowan Cotton DK, with the sample photographed in the colorway Crepe 018. Yarn requirements vary by size, ranging from 7 balls (50 gm each) for the smallest size to 11 balls for the largest sizes, totaling approximately 350 grams to 550 grams of yarn depending on the chosen size. The pattern specifies 3.75mm (US 5) needles for the main body knitting, with the same needle size used for the circular neckband. Tension is critical to achieving the correct finished measurements: 23 stitches and 30 rows should measure 10 cm over the lower body pattern once the finished knitting is blocked. Additional supplies include a cable needle for managing cable stitches, stitch holders for securing stitches during construction, and stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats throughout the knitting process.

Difficulty Level

This pattern is rated as intermediate difficulty, making it suitable for knitters with some experience beyond basic garter and stockinette stitch. The cable techniques and pattern repeats require attention to stitch placement and consistent tension, while the multiple size options and structured construction provide a satisfying project for developing knitters seeking to expand their technical skills.