Knit a Perfect Tank Top for Summer

There is just something about Jessie Mead’s knitting patterns. They are so cute and they look great on literally everyone. I made her Ripple Bralette pattern (twice — so far) and it’s so comfortable and nice and the only bra I ever want to wear.

I feel like her Totally Tank Top pattern is going to be on repeat all summer for a lot of knitters.

This fingering weight, racerback, cropped tank top is worked from the top down. It features a scoop neck with a rolled neckline, and ribbing at the armholes and hem. It was designed to be cropped but you can of course knit it as long as you want, whether you’re looking for a bralette style or more of a traditional tank top.

Either way this design is super cute and perfect for summer. You can check it out on Ravelry, and this is one where you definitely want to take the time to look through the project gallery and see the different versions that people have made (Tanis Fiber Arts’ striped version is amazing).

Looking for more great knits for summer? Check out my collection of lace top knitting patterns (which actually includes another of Jessie’s recent designs). Or check out this post for more great ideas of things to knit during the summer.

Because even though the weather is warm, that doesn’t mean we have to stop knitting or using/wearing our knits, right? I know it’s easy to think that knitting is all about scarves, socks and sweaters (and all those things are great, don’t get me wrong!) but there are lots of other options and knit things we can make, wear and use no matter how hot it is outside. I need to take this advice myself, go buy this pattern and knit myself a whole wardrobe or racerback tank tops. Who’s with me?

[Photo: Jessie Mead.]

Whether you love the cottagecore vibe, are heading to a Renaissance faire, stitching something fun for your Halloween costume, or just want to keep cozy on your fall rambles in the woods, the Wandering Woods Knit Hood from Yarnspirations should be your next knit.

The skill rating is easy, and it calls for worsted weight yarn to knit the hood with an integrated seed stitch border worked in a contrasting color. The hood is worked flat and seamed, then you pick up stitches along the bottom to knit the cape portion.

The cape part is shaped just like a raglan sweater, with increases on each side of four points across the cape. If you’ve ever worked a raglan project before this will be simple for you. And if you haven’t you’ll be ready for your first raglan sweater after this project! The front edgings are worked at the same time as the body, and you’ll finish off with the contrasting bottom edge, as well as I-cord ties for the hood.

This cape is pretty short, just covering the shoulders, but you can knit it as long as you like and even make a full length cape if you’re going for high drama (and warmth!).

There are four size options for the cape, to fit a chest measurement ranging from 28 to 60 inches (71 to 117 cm). As shown the cape edges don’t meet in the front, so if that’s something you want you can work more increases, which will also make the project longer. I’d love a version that’s longer and with a fun clasp to make it even cozier, but you can make it your own way.

The pattern calls for Red Heart Super Saver, but this would be a great project to knit in wool or a wool blend for extra warmth.

You can grab a free copy of the pattern from Yarnspirations, and if you want to make it as shown you can also get a kit that includes the two colors of yarn you need and other supplies if you want them.

[Photo: Yarnspirations]

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