Rib and Lace Neck Top

Rib and Lace Neck Top by Sian Brown

What is Being Made

The Rib and Lace Neck Top is a women's knitted garment designed by independent designer Sian Brown. This versatile top features a distinctive combination of ribbed construction with decorative lace detailing at the neckline. The pattern is available in seven sizes, ranging from size 8 to size 20, with finished bust measurements from 34 inches (86 cm) to 46 inches (116 cm), making it suitable for a wide range of body types. The top offers a finished length between 20¾ and 23¼ inches (53–59 cm) and includes short sleeves measuring approximately 10½ to 11½ inches (27–29 cm) in length.

Techniques Used

This intermediate-level knitting project employs fundamental shaping and construction techniques appropriate for knitters with some experience. The garment is worked primarily in stocking stitch, which creates a smooth, classic fabric suitable for showcasing stitch definition. The pattern incorporates ribbed sections that provide elasticity and structure to the garment. The lace detailing at the neckline introduces openwork elements that add visual interest and sophistication to the design. Shaping is achieved through strategic increases and decreases to create fitted armholes and a tailored silhouette. The pattern uses standard flat knitting methods, worked in pieces and constructed by joining sections together.

Stitches Used

• Knit stitch (k): The fundamental stitch forming the majority of the fabric in stocking stitch
• Purl stitch (p): Used in combination with knit stitches to create ribbed texture and pattern variations
• Rib pattern: Alternating knit and purl stitches (k1, p1) create vertical lines of texture that provide elasticity
• Yarn forward (yf): Creates the openwork eyelets characteristic of lace detailing at the neckline
• Decreases: Skpo (slip one stitch, knit one, pass slipped stitch over) and standard decrease methods shape the garment
• Increases: Used strategically for shaping the body and armholes
• Slip stitches: Employed in decrease techniques and for neat edge finishing

Materials and Gauge

The Rib and Lace Neck Top is designed to be worked in Garnstudio Drops Cotton Viscose yarn in the shade Off White (02). This is a DK weight yarn, which knits to a gauge of 23 stitches and 30 rows over a 10 cm (4-inch) square in stocking stitch on 3.75mm needles. The pattern requires two pairs of needles: size 3.25mm and size 3.75mm. The larger needles (3.75mm) are used for the main fabric, while the smaller needles (3.25mm) are typically used for ribbed cuffs and edgings to create a tighter, more elastic finish. Yardage requirements range from 9 balls (450 grams) for the smallest size to 12 balls (600 grams) for the largest size, with each ball weighing 50 grams. The Cotton Viscose blend provides a breathable, drape-friendly fabric with a subtle sheen, making this top suitable for warm-weather wear.