knitting pattern

Dec 4
2016

“It Was All a Dream” Knitted Dress Collection

by Lauren

I am so excited to share that by brand new collection of knitted dresses, “It Was All a Dream” is finally here! This collection has been a year in the making, and I’m thrilled to now be able to share it with you.

“It Was All a Dream” is a collection of 7 stylish dress designs that will have you and everyone around you falling in love with knitted dresses. From warm cozy cables for the Fall and Winter to light and breezy laces for the Spring and Summer, you will never be without a knitted dress to wear for your next occasion with this collection.

“It Was All a Dream” features many fun and feminine knitted details to explore from beaded lace, to a convertible cowl, to elegant cables, to the addition of ribbon, ruffles, and bows to your knitting. 3 out of the 7 designs in the collection are versatile 2-piece sets that can be worn together as one amazingly awesome knitted ensemble, or as separates paired with other items in your wardrobe!

All of the dress designs in this collection are knit seamlessly in the round for ease of finishing, with detailed instructions on how to customize the length of the dresses and tops to suite your style perfectly.

The collection is available on Ravelry for $28 here, or as individual patterns for $8 each. Here are more details on the 7 designs included in the collection!:

“Sweater Weather” Raglan Cable Knit Dress

Get ready to get super cozy and cute this Fall and Winter with your new favorite cable knit dress, “Sweater Weather”! Not only is this dress stylish, it is the definition of comfy and totally fun to knit too. Featuring a top down raglan construction, there is zero seaming, and you can knit the dress and sleeves as long as you please! The intertwining cable pattern down the front offers a fun twist on a basic knit dress. Pair it with tights and boots, and it’s the ideal Winter ensemble! It will work for anywhere your day may take you, from the office, to a date, to a night out on the town with your girlfriends. This pattern also features an option to make this design a long tunic style sweater, perfect for pairing with skinny jeans or leggings. The Dress features Knit Picks “Preciosa” in Crest and the Tunic Knit Picks “Swish Worsted” in Marine Heather. Get the pattern and learn more here!

“Cowl Me Later” Textured Cowl Neck Dress

What do you get when you combine a cozy knit cowl, and your favorite sweater dress? This fabulous wooly wonder that is sure to impress! This classic cowl neck dress is a wardrobe staple, and while wearing this dress you will look nothing but graceful. While the drape of the cowl says elegance and class, the cut out in the back offers some sass! This incredibly versatile cowl can be folded to cover your arms and back in the cold, or to keep your ears warm by being worn as a hood! The flattering open back offers a sweet surprise that is sure to turn heads, while the dazzling diamond knit and purl patterns will get you knitting street cred. Knit with 100% Baby Alpaca that is incredibly soft, it’s so cozy and warm you will never want to take it off! Cowl me maybe? Cowl me yes! This design features Knit Picks “Andean Treasure” in Royal Heather. Get the pattern and learn more here!

“Take a Bow” Lace Dress and Top

Indulge in your love for lace and all things girly with this adorable chandelier lace dress! This is the perfect versatile dress – you can dress it up for a date with jewelry and heels, or wear it to the office with leggings and boots. This dress has positive ease for a totally roomy and comfortable fit, with an optional added knitted bow belt that will cinch in the dress to accentuate your waist and flatter your figure. While this dress is delicate and feminine, it is knit with DK weight yarn so it won’t take forever to knit! Knit in the round, this dress is also an entirely seamless knit, woohoo! You can easily customize the length of your dress to make it longer, or you can even make it shorter to knit it as an equally beautiful lace top! This design features Knit Picks “Gloss DK” in Blackberry. Get the pattern and learn more here.

“Crop it Like it’s Hot” Sweater and Skirt Set

Stylish, chic, and oh-so-cozy, you are sure to fall in love with this super cute cable knit cropped sweater top and pencil skirt set! (Whew! That was a mouthful!) This delectable design features 2 elegant cable panels that run up the front and back of your curves for a sexy and sassy look. Not only does this versatile set look amazing together, it would look just as awesome worn as separates paired with other items in your closet. The skirt is knit from the top down with a fold over waistband to encase elastic for a personalized fit, and the skirt length is completely up to you! The raglan top is also knit to fit so that you can show as much or as little midriff as you wish, and the sleeves are knit from the top down enabling you to give your top your favorite sleeve length. Are you ready to crop it like it’s hot? I hope so! Get the pattern and learn more here.

“Sheer Elegance” Beaded Lace Dress

With a picot lace hem, a sprinkling of beads, fine eyelet details, and sparkly cap sleeves, this romantic knitted dress is nothing but sheer elegance. Knit with a sensuously soft kid mohair and silk blend yarn, it is light as can be, with a delightful fuzzy texture that will have you feeling feminine and free. The dazzling beaded details offer a hint of flair, making this dress the perfect pick for your next special occasion or affair! This design is also sure to suit your unique style with its reversibility – wear it with a high neck and sexy scooped out back (my favorite way), or more traditionally! Either way you will look sexy yet sweet, and will be sure to enchant whomever you meet! Get the pattern and learn more here.

“Twirl Of Your Dreams” Crop Top and Skirt Set

With daisies, ruffles, a ribbon bow and without seams, this knitted ensemble will give you the twirl of your dreams. This 2-piece set is not only super flirty and fun, you can wear it as separates or rock it as one! With the daisy lace top featuring frills on the sleeves, you are guaranteed a good time twirling around in the leaves. The skater skirt features a perfectly matching picot lace hem, that will show everyone around you that your knitting skills are the creme de la creme! Perfect for a festival, the beach, brunch, or anywhere there is sun, a day prancing around in this outfit will be sure to be won. This design features Knit Picks “CotLin” in Swan. Get the pattern and learn more here!

“Better Lace Than Never” Crop Top and Skirt Set

Indulge in the decadence of knitting a beautiful and unique diamond lace pattern in luxurious fingering weight yarn with this stunningly gorgeous 2-piece set. The skirt is high waisted and fitted down to the knee for a look that is both sassy and classy. The coordinating crop top features a sexy and trendy cold shoulder detail, and criss-crossed straps at the neckline for an edgy look. A delicate picot hem finishes the sleeves and the waistband for the perfect feminine touch. Wear these pieces as one outfit or as separates, they will look equally as lovely paired with a shirt or jeans. And while the intricacy of this fine knitting pattern will be an investment well worth your time, you know what they say, better lace than never! Get the pattern and learn more here.

I hope you enjoy the new collection! It is available on Ravelry for $28 here, or as individual patterns for $8 each here. I can’t wait to see what you make!

Happy Knitting!

♥Lauren

Jun 28
2016

Knitted Mermaid and Merman Costumes!

by Lauren

This past Saturday June 18th, I had the joy of marching in the 34th annual Coney Island Mermaid Parade, in none other than a hand knit mermaid costume! This is the biggest Art Parade in the nation, where over 3,000 people come out dressed as mermaids and other sea inspired creatures, and hundreds of thousands of people come to watch! I am always blown away by the creative visions people have for this event – everyone’s take is so different! The coolest part is that almost all of the marchers make their own costumes (though I think I’m the only one who knitted mine 😉 )

My costume took a total a total of 65 hours to create, and I worked on it over the course of 6 weeks. Thankfully I planned ahead and got my start back in April! I also knitted a Merman costume for my friend Ken who joined me for the parade. He likes to show skin, lol, so that went a lot quicker than mine! His ensemble took about 12 hours.

Below I have instructions for all of the pieces I designed, and links to the patterns I used by other designers. Hope you enjoy! 🙂

Knitted Mermaid Costume

Materials:

Needles: US 7 (4.5mm) 29″ circular needle, US 11 (8mm) 29″ circular needle, US F/5 (3.75mm) crochet hook (for duplicate stitch on bra shells only, size isn’t critical!)

2 Balls (680 yards) of Patons Lace Sequin in Pale Amethyst (MC)

4 Balls (860 yards) of Loops and Threads Payette in Sterling Silver (CC)

Gauge: 18 sts and 24 rows = 4″ in Stockinette St using smaller needle and 2 strands of MC held together

Note about yarn: I held the MC and CC double for the shells and top part of the skirt for 2 reasons – 1) because it was thin, and 2) because I wanted double the amount of the sequins in the yarn to show! If you wanted to use a single strand of yarn for these pieces instead (and thus need less yardage), a DK or Worsted Weight yarn would probably work, just make sure to check your gauge!

1 yard of .75″ wide elastic for Skirt waistband

Nude bra, assorted rhinestones, hot glue (or fabric glue), and sewing needle and thread for Shell Bra

Abbreviations:

BO: bind off

CO: cast on

k: knit

k2tog: knit 2 sts together

LH: left hand

M1L: make 1 by picking up bar between sts through front and knit through back loop

M1R: make 1 by picking up bar between sts through back and knit

meas: measure(s)

p: purl

PUK: pick up and knit

rep(s): repeat(s)

rnd(s): rnd(s)

RS: right side

sl: slip

ssk: (slip 1 knitwise) twice, insert left hand needle into slipped sts and k2tog through back loop

st(s): stitch(es)

W&T: (Wrap and Turn) Slip next st pwise, bring yarn to front if you are working a k row, or to the back if you are working a p row, slip st back onto LH needle, bring yarn to back if working a k row, or to front if knitting a p row. Turn work and begin working in opposite direction.

WS: wrong side

yo: yarn over

Skirt

I made the skirt circumference 32″, 4″ less then my hip circumference of 36″. There is no shaping – elastic is inserted into the enclosed waistband to help cinch it in at the waist. If you want to make the skirt bigger or smaller to get a perfect fit for your body, take your hip circumference and subtract 4″, or measure the hip circumference of a fitted knit skirt that you like the fit of. Take that number and times it by the gauge (4.5 sts/inch). I cast on 32 x 4.5 = 144 sts. You want to cast on a multiple of 8 sts, so make sure to cast on the closest multiple of 8 to that number (in my case 144 was evenly divisible by 8).

I adapted the scale pattern from Black Sheep Wool’s “Mermaid Tail Blanket” (a super cute free pattern!)

Directions:

Note: For the Top of Skirt (Scales), both the MC and CC are knit with 2 strands of yarn held together. For the Bottom of Skirt (Netting), a single strand of the CC is used. The top part of the skirt is knitted from the bottom up. After the top part is finished, stitches are picked up at the bottom of the skirt to knit the netting from the top down. This allows for a great custom fit, as you will have the option to make adjustments after the skirt is finished to make it the perfect length!

Top of Skirt (Scales):

With 2 strands of CC held together and smaller needle, CO 144 sts. Place marker and join, taking care not to twist stitches.

Rnd 1: Knit.

Rnd 2: Purl

Rnds 3-6: Change to 2 strands of MC held together. *Sl 1, k 7; rep from * to end.

Rnd 7: Change to CC and Knit.

Rnd 8: Purl.

Rnds 9-12: Change to MC. K4, *Sl 1, k 7; rep from * to last 3 sts, k3.

Rep Rnds 1-12 until skirt measures desired length, ending on Rnd 2 or 8 (I made mine 15″ long).

Waistband:

Continuing with CC, knit 4 rnds or for .75″ (or desired waistband width).

Purl 1 rnd.

Knit 3 rnds,

BO very loosely.

Break yarn, leaving a yard of one of the strands to seam the waistband. Thread longer end with a tapestry needle. Fold waistband at purl ridge, and seam BO edge to inside of skirt, catching every other stitch on BO edge/inside of skirt. Leave 1″ open at the end, and insert elastic. Determine desired ease of elastic and trim, leaving an extra inch so you can overlap the edges 1″ and seam together using a sewing needle and thread. Seam remaining inch of waistband. See pics below for how I seamed the waistband of “She’s Electric” using the same techniques:

Bottom of Skirt (Netting):

With smaller needle and single strand of CC, PUK 144 sts along CO edge of skirt.

Change to larger needle.

Rnd 1: *Yo, k2tog; rep from * to end.

Rnd 2: Knit.

Rnd 3: K1, *yo, k2tog; rep from * to end. It will be tricky to have a stitch marker to mark the start of the round because you will keep having to move it – I used a latching marker below the round and eyed where to start and end each round!

Rnd 4: Knit.

Rep Rnds 1-4 until netting is desired length, keeping in mind that blocking will add a few inches!

I used a picot bind off to give it bit of a ruffled edge 🙂

Picot Bind Off: *CO 2, BO 3 tightly, sl st from RH needle onto LH needle; rep from * until all sts are bound off.

Finishing:

Weave in all ends.

Wet block netting.

Bra

These shells were custom designed to encompass my DD boobs. The bra I attached them to is a 34DD, but they would also fit a 36D bra. If you wanted to adapt these for your bra size, you would want to do less/more inc rows and make them shorter/longer. I would suggest starting from the beginning, matching it up to your bra cups, seeing how it looks, and adapting as you go.

Shells (make 2):

Note: The silver “seams” are added after the shell is finished.

With 2 strands of MC held together and smaller needle, CO 12 sts.

Row 1: Purl.

Row 2: Knit.

Row 3: Purl.

Row 4: K1, [M1R, k1, M1L, k2] x 3, M1R, k1, M1L, k1 – 20 sts.

Work 5 rows in St st.

Row 10: K1, M1L, k1, [M1R, k1, M1L, k4] x 3, M1R, k1, M1L, k1, M1L, k1 – 30 sts.

Work 5 rows in St st.

Row 16: K1, M1L, k3, [M1R, k1, M1L, k6] x 3, M1R, k1, M1L, k3, M1L, k1 – 40 sts.

Work in St until shell meas 4.25″ from beginning, or 2″ less than desired height of shell.

Short Row Shaping:

Row 1: Knit to last 3 sts, W&T.

Row 2: Purl to last 3 sts, W&T.

Row 3: Knit to 3 sts before last wrap, W&T.

Row 4: Purl to 3 sts before last wrap, W&T.

Rep Rows 3&4 until you have worked 6 wraps on each side and there are 4 sts left in the middle.

Next Row (RS): Knit to end, working wraps with respective sts.

Next Row (WS): Purl, working wraps with respective sts.

Work 3 rows in St st.

Change to 2 strands of CC held together and purl.

Scalloped BO:

Note: To “work & BO tucked st” do the following: Let next st on your LH needle drop until 4 bars are exposed. Place RH needle through dropped st from front to back, and wrap working yarn around needle and pull through st. Place st on RH needle and bind it off tightly.

2nd Note: If you altered the amount of Inc Rows, you want the tucked sts on the BO row to fall in line with the stitch column that goes between the increases. This is so that when you do the duplicate stitch seams, they will line up with the dips of the scalloped BO.

BO 5 very loosely, work & BO tucked st, [BO 8 very loosely, work & BO tucked st] x 3, BO very loosely to end.

Finishing:

Using 2 strands of CC held together and crochet hook and starting at bottom of shell, create seams on shell by duplicating knit columns that fall between increases. These columns should align with the tucked stitches on the BO edge. When you reach tucked stitch at top, place loop over bound off st, break yarn, and pull through loop tightly to emphasize scallop.

Weave in all ends.

Using a sewing needle and thread, sew edges of shell to bra cups. I also hot glued on some small rhinestones on the shells for extra sparkle! I used a nude strapless bra with the straps attached, and glued rhinestones all along the wings and straps, and added a sparkly starfish to the center 🙂

Knitted Merman Costume

Okay, so this isn’t much of a costume, it’s more of a loin cloth with a shell on it, and an added crown because you know, why not! I’m not sure what other man besides Ken would be willing to rock this get up, but if that happens PLEASE SHARE PHOTOS 😉

Shell:

The shell is a gorgeous pattern by Dora (Bottheka on Ravelry) that you can find here. The pattern is free, but you have to contact her for the .pdf. She was very quick to respond and sent it to me right away! I used a single strand of the Loops and Threads Payette in Sterling Silver and size US 3 (3.25mm) needles. It came out to be about 4 x 4″. I hot glued on some rhinestones for extra sparkle 🙂

Crown:

I’m obsessed with this crown! All of my friends were too and now they want crowns for their birthdays 😉 Luckily it was a quick knit! It was a free pattern I found on Ravelry called “A Very Regal Crown” by Kayleigh aka marbles24 on Ravelry. I used a stash yarn that I had that is a light glittery gold and I believe sport weight (the labels are long gone!) I held the yarn double (so it would be extra sturdy) with a US 7 circular needle as suggested. I then glued on a large rhinestone at each crest and it turned out super cute!

Loin Cloth:

The loin cloth is a one size fits most thing – the side ties make it easy to custom fit! The finished loin cloth came out to about 10 x 10″, and the font and back are exactly the same.

Materials:

Needles: US 8 (5mm) straight needles, US I/9 (5.5mm) crochet hook (for side ties only)

.1 Hanks (30 yards) of Knit Picks Preciosa in Crest

Gauge: 15 sts and 22 rows = 4″ in Mesh Stitch Pattern

Directions (make 2):

CO 38 sts.

Knit 5 rows.

Mesh:

Row 1: K1, *yo, k2tog; rep from * to last st, k1.

Row 2: Purl.

Row 3: K2, *yo, k2tog; rep from * to end.

Row 4: Purl.

Rep Rows 1-4 until mesh portion measures 3″, ending with Row 2.

Next Row: Ssk, *yo, k2tog; rep from * to last 2 sts, k2tog (make sure to end with k2tog x 2 – don’t put another yo before the last k2tog or you won’t get the intended decrease there!)

Next Row: Purl.

Rep last 2 rows until there are 4 sts left.

Last Row (RS): Ssk, k2tog, BO last st and pull yarn through loop.

Finishing:

Measure out 48″ yarn (or longer if you want longer ties) and fold in half. Starting at either top corner of loin cloth, place crochet hook through loin cloth and pull center of yarn through so you’ll be crocheting the yarn double ply. Work in chain stitch until yarn runs out, then pull yarn through last loop. Repeat for other side.

Place shell on center front of loin cloth. Using a sewing needle and thread, attach shell to loincloth, catching stitches along the edge of on the back side of shell so that thread is not visible. Tie sides and enjoy!

I hope you enjoyed these patterns, and if you would like to check out more of my knitting patterns click here! If you make any of the above, please share your photos on the Raverly page! 🙂

Sep 21
2015

New Sock Collection “Look at Those Legs!”

by Lauren

So back in January I sent out a newsletter with a survey asking you what you wanted to learn about though video. I got lots of great feedback from you, and the #1 request was “How to Knit Socks“! In the process of creating a video tutorial for you I became OBSESSED with knitting socks. So much so that I decided to design a whole collection of all socks! BTW, the tutorial I made for you is in a previous post here 🙂

This collection includes everything from adorable animal socks, to sweet cable heart motifs, to lace frilly trims, to an amazing heart knee patch! Each pattern in the collection includes 3 different options to suit your preferences, cause you know a girls gotta have options! The animal socks feature 3 different animal options within each pattern, while the cable knit socks feature 3 different sock lengths within each pattern. They all come in girls and adult sizes, have helpful photo and video tutorials in the pattern, and include lots of information to make them a perfect fit for you or your recipient.

You can pick up the whole collection for $21 on Ravelry here or as individual patterns for $7 each in my Raverly shop here. Below is a video I made doing a show and tell of the new collection, with more information about each design below the video 🙂

“Pawsome Pals” Koala, Fox, and Pig Animal Socks

Treat your feet to all that is sweet with these adorable animal socks! Your feet will be so happy to have 2 new furry friends, or “Pawsome Pals” you might call them 😉 These ultra cute socks feature 3 animal options – a Koala, a Fox, and a Pig, with their irresistible poking up ears. They also each feature a lovable little saying on the heel, including “Hug Me”, “Foxy Lady”, and “Oink!” for extra charm. These socks come in every size to accommodate the whole family, from 3 years old to adult, so no one will be left without a set of cuddly critters! The socks are knit from the toe up with the option of adding a contrast toe and heel for extra style.This design features Knit Picks “Stroll” Sock Yarn which comes in tons of fun colors! Learn more about this pattern here.

“Check Meowt!” Cat, Owl, and Panda Knee High Socks

You can count on everyone checking you out when you rock these amazingly awesome animal knee high socks! Not only will people admire your extraordinary knitting talent, they will be complimenting you on how adorable you look too! This super fun sock pattern features 3 animals to choose from, including a Cat, an Owl, and a Panda Bear. Each animal sock features a cute and clever message on the heel, including “Meow”, “Hoot!” and “Rawr”, as well as a pair of sweet little animal ears that poke out from the top of the sock. Sizes are included from child to adult so the whole family can be in on the fun. I hope you have a hoot making these socks! This design features Knit Picks “Stroll” Sock Yarn which comes in tons of fun colors! Learn more about this pattern here.

“Roller Girl” Heart Knee Patch Striped Socks

Get ready to head down to the derby with these super fun and fabulous color blocked socks! These socks are perfect for embracing your inner roller girl, or expressing your sporty yet sweet self. The heart knee patch will keep your knees styling and safe with the extra layer of love and protection it provides, and the seed stitch panels will flatter your lovely legs. Each sock uses the same colors in slightly different ways for a fun and quirky mis-matched look, you will be sure to stand out from the crowd in these socks! Knit with Knit Picks Hawthorne Kettle Dye, they have a beautiful subtle color variegation. These socks come in ankle, knee high, and over the knee length in a girls and adult size to give you lots of options, woohoo! Learn more about this pattern here.

“Young at Heart” Heart Cable Lace Placket Socks

Indulge in your love for all things girly and that part of your heart that will always stay young, with these adorable lace trim socks! These super sweet knitted leg treats feature a seed stitch heart cable pattern running up the back of your leg and a faux toe seam for ultimate charm. They are finished off with a knitted lace placket with buttons, which will look super cute peeking out of your boots! They come in every length from ankle, to knee high, to over the knee to suit your sock length preferences, in all sizes from girls to adult. Knit with Knit Picks Hawthorne Sport in vibrant variegated shades, all of your girly desires will be met with these gorgeous socks! Learn more about this pattern here.

“Diamond in the Ruffle” Cable Knit Socks

Treat your legs to luxury with these fabulous cable knit socks! This sock pattern will not only make your legs irresistible, it is an irresistible knit too! With an exquisite diamond cable and seed stitch pattern, and a fashionable knitted ruffle lace trim, these socks are so fun to knit that you won’t be able to put them down! This pattern includes options to knit these socks in ankle, knee high, or over the knee length to suit your sock wearing preferences. This design also gives you multiple yarn choices to choose from, from the super warm Patons Kroy Socks, to the light and breezy Knit Picks Stroll, to the gorgeous and breathable Knit Picks Hawthorne Kettle Dyed. Learn more about this pattern here!

You can pick up the whole sock pattern collection for $21 on Ravelry here or as individual patterns for $7 each in my Raverly shop here. And if you have never knit socks before, have no fear! This video tutorial walks you through all of the special techniques used for knitting toe up socks which are the exact techniques I used for all of these patterns.

Hope you enjoy the new collection!

♥Lauren

Feb 1
2015

How to Knit a Bra Top Video Knitting Tutorial and Free Pattern

by Lauren

Hey awesome knitter! Today I am super excited to share with you a brand new Girly Knits design, which is a free pattern (woohoo!) that comes with a step-by-step video tutorial (double woohoo!). In the video that you’ll find below I walk you through each step in the pattern, so even if you are a beginner knitter, you will be able to make this bra top!

The pattern uses worsted weight yarn and is knit in the round as one piece, so it will knit up quickly with minimal finishing. This design is quite simple and straight forward as well, so if you want to add a stitch pattern, do a different type of ribbing, do something fun with the straps, etc., I encourage you to do so and make this bra top uniquely your own! And in case you are wondering what a bra top is, it could be a bralette (if you don’t require a lot of support!) or it could be a cropped tank top – either way you wear it, it’s super cute and comfy!

I like wearing my knitted bra tops with a bra underneath, and think it’s perfect for lounging around in (shown below with my “Cables and Curves” skirt pattern), as a crop top with a skater skirt for going out in (how I’m wearing it in teal below and in the video paired with a cardigan), or as PJs! (shown below paired with my “Gorgeous Shorties” pattern).

The bottom ribbing portion of the bra top is totally customizable to suite your desired length of the top, and your choice of worsted weight yarn is up to you. To give you an idea of some options, the 1st top has 3″ of 1×1 ribbing and is made with Knit Picks Chroma Worsted in Avalon, the 2nd top has 5″ of 2×2 ribbing and is made with Knit Picks Swish Worsted in Marine Heather, and the 3rd top (which I make in the video) has 7″ of 1×1 ribbing and is made with Naturally Caron Country in Deep Purple (stash yarn, unfortunately this yarn has been discontinued!) I have a 35″ bust and made the size Small for all of the tops pictured above.

I hope you enjoy this pattern, and when you finish it, please be sure to post pictures of your bra top on Ravelry! You can find the pattern page here. I’m also hosting a knit-a-long for this bra top where you can share your progress, connect with other knitters, and ask questions in the Girly Knits Fan Club forum page here.

Alright, here we go! You will find the video, materials needed, and pattern below 🙂

If you would like a .pdf download of this pattern, which includes extended sizes, instructions for knitting this top on straight needles, and using any yarn/gauge/measurements you’re working with, check out my new updated version of this pattern on Ravelry called the “Get if Girl” Bra Top!

Materials:

200-300 yards of worsted weight yarn

My favorite yarn for this project was Knit Picks Swish Worsted (shown in Teal). I used 2 balls (approx 220 yards) for the Small Size with 5″ of ribbing.

US 5 (3.75 mm) 24” circular needle

US 7 (4.5 mm) 24” circular needle and set of 2 double pointed needles

Gauge: 19 sts and 27 rows = 4″ in Stockinette Stitch using larger needle

Make sure to check your gauge! The size 5 needle is only used for the ribbing. If you need to change needle sizes from the size 7 to get the Stockinette Stitch gauge, use a needle 2 sizes down for the ribbing.

Notions: Stitch markers, tapestry needle

Sizes: Women’s XS (S, M, L, XL, 2XL) to fit a 32 (34, 36, 38, 40, 42)” bust. If you are between sizes I would recommend going a size down.

Finished measurements: 27 (28.75, 31.25, 32.75, 34.5, 37)” circumference at underarms.

Abbreviations:

k: knit

p: purl

rnd: round

st(s): stitch(es)

M1L: make 1 by picking up bar between sts through front and knit through back loop

M1R: make 1 by picking up bar between sts through back and knit

dec: decrease

ssk: (slip 1 knitwise) twice, insert LH needle into slipped sts and k2tog through back loop

ssp: (slip 1 knitwise) twice, slip sts back onto LH needle and p2tog through back loop

k2tog: knit 2 sts together

p2tog: purl 2 sts together

RH: right hand

LH: left hand

RS: right side

WS: wrong side

Directions:

Bottom Band:

With smaller needle [CO 58 (62, 68, 72, 76, 82) sts, place marker] twice – 116 (124, 136, 144, 152, 164) sts. Join, taking care not to twist sts. (video: 1:48)

Work in 1×1 (k1, p1) or 2×2 (k2, p2) rib for desired length. See info below picture showing all 3 tops for how long I made the ribbing for each top. (video: 3:37)

Bust:

Change to larger needle and knit 5 rnds, working to last st before start marker on the 5th rnd: (video: 5:59)

Inc Rnd: M1R, k1, slip marker, k1, M1L, k to 1 st before side marker, M1R, k1, slip marker, k1, M1L, k to end – 120 (128, 140, 148, 156, 168) sts. (video: 8:02)

Rep Inc Rnd every 6th rnd 2 more times, starting Inc Rnd 1 st before the start marker as before – 128 (136, 148, 156, 164, 176) sts after all inc rnds.

For the 38”, 40”, and 42” bust, or if you have a D+ bust (or if you want more coverage!), work 3 more rnds, or desired length of back. (video: 11:21)

BO Back:

K4, BO with a firm tension until there are 3 sts left before the side marker – 72 (76, 82, 86, 90, 96) sts left on needle. Cont the row as follows (you will already have 1 st on your RH needle): (video: 11:52)

Ssk, k to last 3 sts, k2tog, k1 – 70 (74, 80, 84, 88, 94) sts. (video: 13:11)

Next Row: Purl.

Dec Row: K1, ssk, k to last 3 sts, k2tog, k1 – 68 (72, 78, 82, 86, 92) sts.

Repeat last 2 rows two more times, removing markers as needed – 64, (68, 74, 78, 82, 88) sts.

Next row: P32 (34, 37, 39, 41, 44) sts, place marker to mark center, p to end. (video: 14:57)

Wearer’s Left Cup:

The Wearer’s Left Cup and strap will be worked first, then you will work the Wearer’s Right Cup and strap. If you want to work the cups simultaneously, you can join a 2nd ball of yarn at the center to work the other cup at the same time, referring to the instructions for Wearer’s Right Cup. The basic formula for the decreases is that you will decrease at the underarm every RS row, and at the neckline every row.

Row 1: K1, ssk, k to 3 sts before center marker, k2tog, k1 – 30 (32, 35, 37, 39, 42) sts. (video: 15:42)

Row 2: Turn work and P1, p2tog, p to end – 29 (31, 34, 36, 38, 41) sts. (video: 17:10)

Repeat last 2 rows until 6 sts remain. If you end after working a WS row, k across. If you end after working a RS row don’t do anything. If you end with 7 sts after a working a WS row, k4, k2tog, k1.

Straps:

Work in i-cord for desired strap length. (video: 18:13) I made my straps about 11” long – I would recommend checking the strap length of a tank top that is adjusted to fit you, then do a little extra. It’s easier to take out length if they are too long then to add it after cutting your yarn! BO and leave a 5″ tail for sewing straps to top. (video: 21:27)

Wearer’s Right Cup:

Join yarn at center of Bra Top (the first row will be on the RS of your knitting) and work as follows: (video: 22:10)

Row 1: K1, ssk, k to last 3 sts, k2tog, k1 – 30 (32, 35, 37, 39, 42) sts.

Row 2: P to last 3 sts, ssp, p1 – 29 (31, 34, 36, 38, 41) sts.

Repeat last 2 rows until 6 sts remain. If you end after working a WS row, k across. If you end after working a RS row don’t do anything. If you end with 7 sts after a WS row, k1, ssk, k to end.

Work strap same as other strap.

Finishing:

Pin straps to back edge of bra top. Try on and adjust strap placement and length as needed. Using a tapestry needle, sew straps to back edge of bra top. (video: 24:27)

Weave in ends and enjoy! If you liked this pattern, make sure to check out more of my patterns at girlyknits.com/patterns!

Dec 11
2014

Knitted Wall Art

by Lauren

So a couple months ago, I posted this picture on my Facebook Fan Page and Instagram, and I couldn’t believe how many of you loved the idea of knitted wall decor!

I got really excited about this concept, and in flooded a million ideas of cute knitted things you could frame and put on your wall. Whether you want a little wooly decor in your home, or you need a quick knitted present to gift to a loved one, Knitted Wall Art is guaranteed to please 🙂

I ended up creating more than 20 Knitted Wall Art designs, including colorwork, cables, textures, and more. Some designs even have added knitted elements to give them a 3-dimensional look!

I made a video for you explaining how Knitted Wall Art works, including what to look for in a frame.

Here are 5 reasons that Knitted Wall Art is super awesome and why I’m so obsessed!:

1) Knitted Wall Art is an inexpensive project! The frames used are from IKEA (the Virserum frame) and only $1.99 – $2.99 each. The wool used is Knit Picks Wool of the Andes Sport which is only $2.69/ball. You won’t need more than 1 ball of each color used for any set, so you can definitely make a set of 3 knitted wall art designs for under $20 (and have some yarn left over)!

2) Knitted Wall Art is a quick knit! Each framed knitted piece will only take a few hours to make – the 4×6″ size will take about 2-3 hours, while the 5×7″ size will take about 3-4 hours. You can definitely make a whole set in a weekend!

3) Knitted Wall Art is interchangeable! Each design is actually a frame cozy that wraps around the back piece of your frame. This makes it super easy to get on and off your frame and have the ability to switch it out with other designs in a jiffy. It looks nice and neat in the back too!

4) Knitted Wall Art can be made seamless! In each pattern there is a full page photo tutorial on how to seam your cozy as you so, so you won’t have to do any seaming at the end. Woohoo!

5) You can design your own Knitted Wall Art! In each and every pattern, there is a blank template at the end where you can design your own colorwork chart, cable chart, or knit purl pattern. I can’t wait to see what you come up with!

All of the Knitted Wall Art patterns can be found in my Ravelry shop for $6 each, or you can get the full collection of all 7 sets which has more than 20 Knitted Wall Art designs for only $18 here!

Hope you enjoy making knitted wall art, I can’t wait to see what you make!

Aug 7
2014

New Summer Collection “Boardwalk Beauties”!

by Lauren

I am so super excited to share with you my brand new collection of knitting patterns “Boardwalk Beauties”! It is a collection of 5 sunshine loving designs that you will not only love knitting, but will love wearing when you’re out having fun in the sun! Inspired by everything lovely about Summer and my favorite new fashion trends, you will love these fashionable tank top, t-shirt, and skirt designs. They are all knitted with lightweight summery fibers like cotton and bamboo to keep you cool in the warm weather. I hope you love these patterns as much as I loved designing them!

Below you will find a video of me doing a show and tell of the collection, going into more detail about the inspiration behind the collection, and the different ways you can customize each design!

These patterns can be purchased through my Girly Knits pattern stores on Ravelry and Etsy, as well as through my website, girlyknits.com! They are $7 each, or can be purchased as a full collection for only $21 here. Here are all of the patterns in the collection and their descriptions below:

“She’s Electric” Aztec Pattern Bodycon Skirt

Be the belle of the boardwalk this Summer is this electrifyingly cool skirt! The unique Aztec inspired texture of this skirt will not only turn heads, it is a blast to knit too! The skirt is deceptively simple, composed of simple knit and purl patterns that create a beautiful knit fabric that will fit and flatter your curves. The skirt is finished off with a fold-over waistband to enclose an elastic that will make this skirt fit you like a glove. Made with Knit Picks Shine Sport, you are sure to emit extra super shiny electric waves! In the words of Oasis “She is electric, can I be electric too?” the answer is YES! Just knit this skirt 😉 For more details and to instantly download this pattern, check it out on Ravelry.

“Sunshine and Lollipops” Braided Strappy Back Tank Top with Geo Lace Edge

Sunshine, lollipops and rainbows everything that’s wonderful is what I feel a-when I’m wearing this tank top…hehe well that is how I feel when I wear this tank top, and I hope you feel wonderful and bust out into song when you wear it too! There is lots to love with this sunshine seeking tank top with it’s super chic chunky geo lace edge and unique braided straps that show off your beautiful back! Braiding these straps will bring back memories of Summer Camp and friendship bracelets and all that is wonderful about Summer. An option is also included for a trendy t-strap back, as well as a cropped or regular length fitted tank to give you lots of options to suite your unique preferences. For more details and to instantly download this pattern, check it out on Ravelry.

“Bow Crazy” Chevron Lace Open Back Tank Top with Bow

Go crazy with your love for bows and everything girly with this pretty little lacy flirty oh-so-cute tank top! With sweet and feminine details like a lace ruffled waist, a picot neckline, and cable braided straps, this tank top is sure to make you feel pretty. With the option of making a festival ready solid tank top, or a retro-inspired beach ready striped tank top, you can let your imagination run wild with the adventures you will have when you rock it! Knit with a lustrous mercerized cotton, this tank not only keeps you cool in it’s sassy open-back design, but keeps you looking cool in it’s fashionable chevron lace pattern. The bow on the back is a super sweet touch that will make you go bow crazy! For more details and to instantly download this pattern, check it out on Ravelry.

“With Sprinkles on Top” Ice Cream Bow Back T-Shirt

What is your favorite flavor of ice cream during the Summer? Vanilla with multicolor sprinkles? Mint with chocolate sprinkles? Plain chocolate? Show it off in this super fun perfect for Summer t-shirt! Made with Knit Picks Comfy Sport, it is not only knit with a lightweight cotton yarn, it is soft, comfy, and machine washable too! The ice cream intarsia chart is a blast to knit and wear, and the bows on the back offer some flirtiness and flair. Adorn the bows with your favorite buttons and your back will be the talk of the town. The bow on the back is a super sweet touch that will make you go bow crazy! For more details and to instantly download this pattern, check it out on Ravelry.

“Heart to Heart” Embellished Tank Top with Heart Cut Out Back

If you want to sparkle this Summer and show off the amazing knitting superstar you are, “Heart to Heart” is your one stop tank top! Featuring two of fashions hottest trends, jewel embellished necklines and heart cut out backs, you will have everyone saying “Who is that girl? I want to know her!” Knit with your choice of sugar cane or cotton yarn, you will be keeping cool and looking fabulous. Warning: I would recommend making 2 of these beauties, because you just know your BFF is going to want one too! For more details and to instantly download this pattern, check it out on Ravelry.

Thanks so much for checking out the “Boardwalk Beauties” collection! These patterns can be purchased through my Girly Knits pattern stores on Ravelry and Etsy, as well as through my website, girlyknits.com! They are $7 each, or can be purchased as a full collection for only $21 here. I hope you enjoy!

♥Lauren

May 9
2013

“Blossoming Beauty” Knit Along Results!

by Lauren

The Spring Knit Along has commenced and it was so much fun! All of the girls who participated were so awesome and supportive of one another, and came out with some super cute tank tops and dresses! If you would like to check out the forum thread we used for the knit along and the fun progress pics posted along the way, you can check it out on Ravelry here! The pattern we used can be found here 🙂 Can’t wait to do another one, if you have any requests, please do let me know!

Apr 3
2013

How to Knit Daisy Lace

by Lauren

how to knit daisy lace tutorial Hey there! Today I am very happy to be sharing a video tutorial with you on how to knit daisy lace! Even if you are new to knitting lace, you will be able to watch the video and follow along with the lace pattern written out below. Hopefully you will find that knitting lace is quite fun!

Once you learn the basics of lace though knitting this lace pattern, you will find that other lace patterns use similar techniques to create a variety of designs.

This daisy lace pattern is used in my original design “Blossoming Beauty“, so if you like it, you can incorporate it into a tank top or dress using my pattern! I am also hosting a Spring Knit-Along from April 5th – May 5th, so if you decide to knit this pattern, please join in on the knit-along forum on Ravelry here!

Here is the stitch pattern that I use in the video tutorial (which you will find at the bottom of the page) so you can follow along:

Abbreviations:

k2tog: knit 2 stitches together

psso: pass slipped stitch over

sl: slip

tbl: through back loop

yo: yarn over

Directions:

Note: This will make a square swatch of 2 repeats of the daisy lace stripe pattern. In the video I used US Size 5 needles and a worsted weight yarn so that you would be able to see my work more clearly, though the “Blossoming Beauty” tank top and dress design uses a US Size 4 needles a sport weight cotton yarn, Paton’s Grace.

CO 33 sts.

Knit 4 rows.

Work center 25 sts in St st for 12 rows, keeping first and last 4 sts in Garter St.

Work Daisy Lace Pattern below over center 25 sts for next 12 rows, keeping first and last 4 sts in Garter St.

Row 1: K2, [k2tog, yo, k1, yo, k2tog tbl, k3] x 2, k2tog, yo, k1, yo, k2tog tbl, k2.

Row 2 and all following even numbered rows: Purl.

Row 3: K1, [k2tog, yo, k3, yo, k2tog tbl, k1] x 3.

Row 5: K3, [yo, sl1, k2tog, psso, yo, k5] x 2, yo, sl1, k2tog, psso, yo, k3.

Row 7: K1, yo, k2tog tbl, k3 [k2tog, yo, k1, yo, k2tog tbl, k3] x 2, k2tog, yo, k1.

Row 9: K2, yo, k2tog tbl, k1, [k2tog, yo, k3, yo, k2tog tbl, k1] x 2, k2tog, yo, k2.

Row 11: K1, yo, k2tog, k4, yo, sl1, k2tog, psso, yo, k5, yo, sl1, k2tog, psso, yo, k4, k2tog tbl, yo, k1.

Repeat last 24 rows once more.

Knit 3 Rows.

BO.

I hope this tutorial was helpful for you!

♥Lauren

Feb 18
2013

Vday Project Contest Winners!

by Lauren

Thanks so much to everyone who entered and voted in the “Follow Your Heart” Valentine’s Day project contest! It was so much fun to see everyone’s projects, they were all so awesome! A total of 23 fabulous projects were entered, which you can check out on my facebook fan page photo album here.

Even though I said there would only be 2 winners (one winner by votes, and one at random), I wanted to award the 2nd and 3rd place winners as well and spread the love some more ;). All 4 will be getting a fun little Vday package from me, as well as a Girly Knits pattern of their choice, yay!

Here are the winners:

1st Place:

“Heart Me Forever” by Celeste! Celeste did a beautiful job photographing her knitting in progress, her finished work, and modeling her skirt! Celeste actually entered a total of 5 awesome projects into the contest, but this one was the clear fan favorite. Congratulations Celeste! You can find her project details for this skirt on Ravelry here, and see more of her knitted creations for her and her two adorable daughters here.

2nd Place:

“Be My Valentine” by Denyse! Denyse made fingerless mittens for all 3 of her daughters, making each pair unique by using different color combos and interchanging the word charts. The photo of all of their hands together is so super sweet! These were a Valentine’s Day gift for her daughters, and the photos really do give a fun representation of the Holiday ♥ Congratulations Denyse! You can find details on these fun fingerless mittens on her project page here, and see more of her beautiful creations here!

3rd Place:

There was actually a tie for 3rd place, and the projects were by the same knitter! Congrats to Grisleda for her “Your Time to Shine” and “Eye Candy” projects! Griselda did a wonderful job photographing her projects using fun colorful backgrounds, and flashing us with her beautiful smile 😉 I also love how she made each project her own. You can check out all of her wooly wonders on Ravelry here!

“Winner at Random”

For the “winner at random”, I used a random number generator to determine who it would be, and the winner is…drumroll please…Jen! Jen actually entered two projects, “Sweeter then a Cupcake” and “Your Time to Shine“. Jen took fun progress shots of her projects and made some pretty sweet hats 😉 Congrats Jen! Check out more of her projects (which include a ton of fun hats!) on Ravelry here.

Thanks again to all of the awesome knitters who entered the contest, and congratulations to the winners! You can find out more about the fun knitting patterns used for these projects here:

http://knittingisawesome.com/followyourheart/

Happy Knitting!

♥Lauren

Feb 14
2013

Happy Valentine’s Day! ❤

by Lauren

girly knits valentine gk

All you knit is love…so true 😉 Katie is modeling the “Heart Warmers” leg warmers in this super sweet photo. Hope you have a wonderful day full of love and warm knitted things!

❤Lauren