Here in Denver, it’s already a little toasty. I don’t feel the need to go into the terrifying ordeal of global warming on this particular post (just know it’s on my mind), so instead, I will start sharing spring and summer knits for those of us finding ourselves in warmer temperatures for a greater portion of the year.
Back when I lived in Arizona, warm weather was the norm. I was lucky to be blessed with weather below 60 degrees, which meant most of my chunky sweaters didn’t get much wear. After a year of knitting these bulky sweaters, I finally learned my lesson and switched to knitting cute tank tops and crop tops. To this day, this one remains a favorite.
Pattern Information:
Name: Cinch Me Crop Top (Find on Ravelry) (Find on Etsy)
Designer: Camille Mikolas
Sizes: XXS – 3XL
Needles: US 7 – 4.5 mm
Yarn weight: Worsted
My top:
I was selected to test-knit this pattern way back in 2021, at the height of my knitting hobby. I was knitting upwards of ten garments a year (I feel lucky now to knit one or two) and building up my stash like I would live forever.
I chose to knit this top in The Cotton by We are Knitters in the terracotta color. I’m a sucker for a gorgeous red color, and this color is no exception. It’s a perfect summer red too, with a warm undertone.
I chose to knit a size L, since I do like to have a little bit of extra room in my tops, and they all have to accommodate a 34G bust size. I probably could have gone with the size medium, if I’m being honest, but overall I’m still happy with the sizing.
The cinch detail in the front is so flattering on the body and can be adjusted to your own individual preferences. I might even knit it a bit shorter next time. It looks difficult, but anyone with mattress-seaming experience is capable of this one.
Notes for next time:
When I was knitting this top, I was convinced that the straps wouldn’t be long enough, and I ended up adding an extra inch or so to the straps. This was a mistake. The straps have since grown a bit too long, and I will need to find a way to restitch these straps together and remove some of the length.
I might even knit the overall top a bit shorter next time too. I do like my tops to hit me right at my waist and this is a bit long on the sides, which might also be a result of both blocking and wear.
All things considered, this is a relatively simple top with details that look challenging but are totally manageable with clear instructions. It’s always on heavy rotation during my summer months. Happy knitting!
