1009 Starling - Jumper Knitting Pattern for Women in Valley Yarns Leverett

1009 Starling - Women's A-Line Lace Tank Knitting Pattern

What is Being Made

The 1009 Starling is a sophisticated women's sleeveless tank top designed by Julie Turjoman, featuring an elegant A-line silhouette with cap sleeves. This intermediate-level knitting pattern is specifically engineered to flatter multiple figure types through strategic decrease shaping at the sides combined with a graduated center lace panel. The design offers a modern, flattering fit with finished bust measurements ranging from 34 inches (XS) to 66 inches (5XL), and hip measurements from 38 inches to 70 inches. The pattern includes 2 inches of positive ease at the bust and 4 inches at the hips for comfortable, intentional fit.

Yarn and Materials

This tank is worked in Valley Yarns Leverett, a premium cotton-linen blend yarn composed of 70% Pima Cotton and 30% Linen. This fiber combination provides crisp stitch definition essential for showcasing the lace and cable details, while offering beautiful drape and breathability ideal for a sleeveless summer garment. The yarn is a DK weight, with each ball containing 50 grams and 109 yards. Yarn requirements range from 7 balls for the smallest size (XS) to 15 balls for the largest size (5XL). The sample shown in the pattern is knit in the Leaf colorway.

Needles and Tools

The pattern requires two sizes of circular needles to achieve proper gauge and fabric characteristics. US size 5 (3.75 mm) circular needles in both 16-inch and 32-40 inch lengths are used for the main fabric, while US size 4 (3.50 mm) circular needles in the same length options are used for ribbed edgings. Additional materials include stitch markers, with at least 2 markers in a unique color recommended for tracking pattern repeats and shaping.

Construction Techniques

The 1009 Starling employs multiple advanced knitting techniques to create its sophisticated appearance and flattering fit:

• Bottom-Up Construction: The tank is knitted from the hem upward, allowing for easy length adjustments and intuitive sizing modifications
• Seamless Knitting: Worked primarily in the round using circular needles, this technique eliminates seams and creates a smooth, professional finish
• Worked Flat Sections: Certain portions are worked flat on circular needles, providing flexibility in construction
• Lace Patterning: A graduated center lace panel serves as the visual focal point, featuring yarn overs and decreases that create an openwork design
• Cable Details: Mini-cables edge the crew neckline and hem, providing visual balance to the delicate lace center panel and adding textural interest
• Strategic Decreasing: Side shaping through decreases creates the A-line silhouette and accentuates the figure

Stitches and Stitch Work

The pattern incorporates several key stitch techniques. The lace center panel uses combinations of yarn overs and decreases to create the openwork graduated design. Cable stitches are employed for the mini-cable edgings at the crew neck and hem, adding structural detail and visual weight to frame the delicate lace. Stockinette stitch forms the primary fabric base, providing a smooth canvas for the decorative elements. Ribbing is used for the fitted neckline and hem edges, ensuring the garment maintains its shape and sits properly on the body.

Skill Level and Pattern Complexity

Rated as Intermediate difficulty, this pattern is designed for knitters with foundational skills who are ready to tackle lace and cable techniques. The combination of seamless construction, lace patterning, and strategic shaping requires attention to stitch counts and pattern repeats, making it suitable for experienced knitters seeking to expand their technical abilities. The pattern is available as a downloadable PDF for immediate access and printing.