Rosie Top

Rosie Top by LaMode Knits

What is Being Made

The Rosie Top is a short-sleeved summer garment designed to create a flattering hourglass silhouette. This knitted top features a fitted bodice with a distinctive flare toward the hem, making it an ideal warm-weather piece. The design is available in three sizes: S-M (chest 34"-36"), Large (chest 38"-40"), and XL (chest 42"-44"), with finished lengths ranging from 23" to 24" depending on size.

Craft and Primary Techniques

The Rosie Top is primarily a knitting project, though it incorporates crochet elements as finishing details. The pattern is classified as intermediate difficulty, making it suitable for knitters with some experience beyond basic techniques. The combination of knitting and crochet techniques allows for versatile construction methods and professional finishing touches.

Stitches and Stitch Work

This pattern employs several fundamental knitting stitches and techniques to achieve its structured shape:

• Knit (K) — the basic knit stitch forming the primary fabric
• Purl (P) — used to create texture and reversible fabric sections
• Yarn Over (Yo) — creates decorative eyelet holes and lace effects that contribute to the garment's visual interest
• K2tog (Knit 2 together) — a decrease stitch that shapes the fitted bodice and creates the hourglass silhouette
• S2kp2 (Slip, Knit, Pass Slipped Stitches Over) — a centered double decrease used for shaping and creating symmetrical design lines

These stitches work together to form the fitted upper portion and the flared lower section characteristic of the Rosie design.

Materials and Specifications

The Rosie Top pattern specifies Epic yarn in light pink, a 100% cotton aran weight yarn. Yardage requirements vary by size: 400g (approximately 300 yards) for S-M sizes, 450g for Large, and 500g for XL. Each 50g skein provides 75 meters (82 yards) of yarn.

The pattern recommends any cotton or cotton-blend yarn with matching tension as a suitable substitute, allowing crafters flexibility in yarn selection while maintaining consistent garment proportions and drape.

Tools Required

• Straight knitting needles size 5.5mm (US size 9) — for the main knitted fabric
• Crochet hook size 5mm (H) — for finishing edges and crochet details

Tension and Gauge

Achieving the correct tension is essential for proper fit. The pattern specifies a gauge of 14 stitches and 18 rows over 10 centimeters (4 inches) in stockinette stitch. Knitters should always swatch and measure gauge before beginning to ensure the finished garment matches the intended dimensions.

Finished Measurements

The Rosie Top is designed with the following finished measurements:

• S-M: Width 16" (40 cm), Length 23" (58 cm), Sleeve width 2.5" (6 cm)
• Large: Width 20" (50 cm), Length 23" (58 cm), Sleeve width 2.5" (6 cm)
• XL: Width 24" (61 cm), Length 24" (61 cm), Sleeve width 2.5" (6 cm)

Pattern Summary

The Rosie Top from LaMode Knits combines classic knitting techniques with modern shaping to create a contemporary summer garment. The use of cotton yarn provides breathability and drape ideal for warm weather, while the intermediate skill level ensures the pattern offers enough technical challenge to engage experienced knitters without overwhelming beginners. The hourglass shaping achieved through strategic decreases and the flared hem created with yarn overs and increases make this a versatile piece suitable for various body types and personal styling preferences.