This versatile piece was originally intended to be a beach coverup, but it doubles beautifully as a tunic for a dressy lunch or an evening out. It is worked top down, seamlessly, in alternating bands of welting and mesh. The mesh bands are narrower at the top and gradually widen moving towards the bottom hem, flattering all body shapes.

Instructions are included for a matching bag, which is perfect for carrying those little bits you need to keep handy, such as keys and tissues. You can kill two birds with one stone by using the bag as your gauge swatch.

Level: Advanced beginner.

Skills Required: Basic increases and decreases. The only unusual stitch is a purl through the front and back, which is just the purl equivalent of knit through the front and back.

Instruction Type: Written instructions only. The mesh pattern is simple enough that even I can follow it without a chart!

Construction: Top down, seamless, raglan sleeves.

Yarn: This pattern uses sport or DK weight yarn. Best results are achieved using 100% cotton yarn with a high twist. The coverup requires 600(700, 850) yds/550(650, 800) m, and the bag requires 70 yds/65 m.

Needles: 5.5 mm (US 9) circulars. You’ll need one needle with a 24”/60 cm cable, and either a second one with a 16”/40 cm cable or a set of DPNs.

Size: S(M, L); 26(32, 39)”/66(81, 99)cm finished circumference at chest. The stitch pattern has a lot of stretch to it, so choose the size closest to your actual measurements. If you are between measurements, choose the smaller size.

Notions: 4 stitch markers, cable needle, waste yarn, tapestry needle, crochet hook (if making the bag)