Wartime Tank Top

Inspired by a photograph of a model wearing a 1940s textured ‘v’ neck tank top with a pair of high-waisted tailored trousers. It is knit using double double-moss-stitch (K2, P2 for two rows, P2, K2 for two rows) to create a textured fabric typical of ’40s knits.

The pattern includes instructions on how to knit a neat seam by using short rows to create the shoulder shapings and then knitting both pieces together. Plus a guide to adapting the pattern to create a Fair Isle tank top.

MATERIALS
4 50g balls of Adriafil Calzasocks wool (or other 4-ply sock wool)
1 pair of 3mm (UK no 11) and 1 pair of 3.25mm (UK no 10) knitting needles
Stitch holders
A safety pin
A tapestry needle

TENSION
30sts and 40 rows over 10cm square using 3.25mm knitting needles

MEASUREMENTS
Back - 20 inches; Underarm to hem side seam - 12 inches (adjustable)

TECHNIQUES
(double) double moss stitch, short rows (for shoulder shapings), casting on, casting off, stretchy rib cast on (photo-illustrated technique), ribbing - K1 P1 rib, increasing and decreasing

DIFFICULTY
Easy