Lookit what I made!
Can you see it in this terrible grainy photo? I'm going to take better pictures with the good camera as soon as I can -- I just got squirrely and wanted to post about it now.
I've named her Caliente, for she is knit with Bernat Sox "Fiesta" yarn on #5 needles. But the beauty of it is, she can be totally customized to any size with any yarn.
Caliente Summer TopYou'll need 2 stitch holders, a circular needle, and double points in the same size.
First, gauge your yarn.
#_____ stitches = 1 inch.
#_____ rows = 1 inch.
HINT: I think it's more accurate to measure gauge for 4 inches and divide by 4.
Then, take a few measurements to get a custom fit.
A) Measure around the top of your shoulders, when an off-the-shoulder top would sit.
____ inches x _____ st/inch (# from above) = _____ CO stitches
B) Measure around your upper arm.
____ inches / 2 (x ____ st/inch) = _____ stitches to bind off at armholes
C) Measure from the top of your shoulder to your waist.
____ inches x _____rows/inch = _____ total rows to work for length
Okay, begin by CO the number you got for A on a circular needle that will accommodate that many stitches comfortably. Join and work in 2x2 rib for 2 inches.
Knit the number of stitches you got for B, and move these stitches to a holder. Knit to the opposite side where you'll move another #B stitches to a holder. Knit around until you come to your first held stitch.
NOTE: calculate the number of knit stitches between stitch holders like this: [#A – (#B+#B)] / 2 = ____. Isn't algebra fun!
Now, CO #B. Knit to the opposite held stitches and CO #B again.
Work even in StSt until piece measures #C. Work in 2x2 rib for another 2 inches. BO VERY LOOSELY – move up a few needle sizes to be on the safe side.
To finish the armholes, divide one set of stitches from a holder onto two double pointed needles. Pick up #B stitches from the BO side of the armhole and divide those between 2 more DP needles. If you don't have a multiple of 4 for the 2x2 rib, knit a few stitches together on the BO side as you go. Work in 2x2 rib for 1 inch. BO VERY LOOSELY.
Repeat the procedure for the other armhole.
Fin!
Let me know if you have any questions.
