Today’s pattern is what I’m calling the Basic Tube Top because that’s what it is — the most basic tube top you could ask for! (Or you could add straps and make it a Basic Tank Top)

KNITTING PATTERN: DIGITAL FILE ONLY
BY BUYING THIS PATTERN YOU WILL NOT RECEIVE THE PHYSICAL ITEM.

This tube top is the ESSENTIAL addition to everyone’s summer wardrobe. This little staple is so quick to make (because it’s cropped and, well, strapless) and comes with CUSTOMIZABLE SIZING so that you can adjust your bikini to fit YOUR measurements.

When you buy this pattern, you don’t only get a printable PDF… you also get a link to an Excel spreadsheet where you can input your own measurements and get personalized numbers to cast on and use! Knitting clothes that fit YOU doesn’t get easier than this.

The “Basic Tube Top” is aptly named because of its simple construction. There are two versions included in this pattern -- a version without waist shaping and a version with waist shaping, if you have a large difference between bust and waist.
You can add elastic in afterward to make your tube top more slippage-proof!

The pattern is clearly written and formatted in an easy-to-read way. Each step is carefully explained and there are diagrams included!
If you purchase this pattern, you will receive a printable PDF for download with written instructions and linked video tutorials.

SIZING
Made-to-measure. In this pattern I provide a detailed explanation on how to knit a tube top to your proportions.
There are two main versions of this pattern below: a version without waist shaping and a version with waist shaping. I knitted the version without waist shaping because my bust measurement is very close to my waist measurement.
Note: there are decreases from bust to waist in this pattern, but bust shaping is not included. This may be an issue if the top measurement of your bust is wildly different from the widest part of your bust. However, this problem can also be remedied by adding elastic into the top hem of your tube top!

MATERIALS
Any yarn. I recommend a fingering/sport/DK weight yarn in a wool/cotton blend. The wool will help prevent your tube top from stretching out, and the cotton will keep it cool.
For reference, I used DROPS Safran yarn (fingering). Since this is a cotton yarn, I have added elastic to keep it well-fitting.
Stitch markers (especially if you are knitting the version with waist shaping).
OPTIONAL: elastic (to string through the top and bottom hems of tube top so that they won’t stretch out). You can always add elastic later on as well.
Circular knitting needles (this top is knitted in the round).
Use any needle size that will create a desirable fabric when paired with yarn choice. Consider sizing down to create a more opaque fabric.
For reference, I used US 3 3.25 mm knitting needles.

GAUGE
Any gauge!

LANGUAGE
English

DIFFICULTY LEVEL
Beginner! This pattern outlines all the steps to make this tube top along with an Excel spreadsheet so you don’t have to do the math yourself!

I am quick to message back for questions or confusion about the pattern as well, so feel free to reach out.

Note: a free version of this pattern (without the Excel spreadsheet) is also available on my website, joy2create.net !)