This is another one of those patterns I started way back in my knitting heyday, just to finish it after it sat way too long on my needles.
I did finish this one a while back, but – funny enough – as I’ve gotten more comfortable in my body in my thirties, I’ve found myself reaching for my handknit tops more and more. I think part of the reason is that a lot of these knit tops aren’t super bra-friendly. At least, they aren’t friendly with my bras.
This pattern, while not bra-friendly the way I knit it, is extremely large-chest friendly.
It’s one of the first patterns I knit that was designed with full busts in mind, and it’s extremely customizable based on your bust and underbust measurements. For that reason alone, it’s a 5-star pattern for me.\
I think, in general, knitting gets a bit of a reputation for being the fiber art of choice for winter garments (aka sweater knitting). I’ve always envied crocheters for their wide array of summer patterns to choose from. So, when I find a knitting pattern that’s cute and wearable for summer, I’m always intrigued.
The pattern:
Name: Maid You Look Top
Designer: Vanessa Fleming (@oshenknits)
Sizes: Underbust range: 25-45″, Cup Range: AA-I
Yarn: Aran/Worsted/DK Weight (I recommend cotton)
Needles: US 7 – 4.5 mm
Skills required: Twisted Knit, Twisted Purl, Decreases, I-cord, Seaming, Sewing
The Yarn:
Brand: Wool and the Gang Shiny Happy Cotton
Color: Lipstick Red
Yardage: <350 Yards
My overall thoughts:
I am super happy with how this pattern turned out. I really have no notes on the pattern at all. It’s well written and easy to figure out no matter your skill level. (Although I think this might be better suited for an advanced or confident beginner.)
Now what might I change?
I made my i-cord way too long. I made the back a cross-back to use up some of the extra length, which also helped give the top a little more support. So, if you’re at all like me, maybe actually measure the desired length of your i-cord instead of knitting in front of the TV into oblivion.
I also made the top ever so slightly too big. I fall between band measurements, and next time, I think I’ll size down. Luckily, a slight water bath and a few minutes in the dryer can help me shrink it back to my desired size, although use this method carefully. I’ve ruined a few tops this way!
If you’re looking for a cute summer bust-friendly knit, I think this might be the right pattern for you!
