Rosenlund Top

This summer project is finally off of my needles and I’m excited to share it! The Rosenlund Top is a beautiful vest with a bit of cable work and a lacy panel down the centre. The pattern is by Sari Nordlund – and I don’t think this will be my last time trying one of her patterns. 

I went off pattern a bit and constructed my version from a worsted-weight cotton yarn that I had in my stash (Wool and the Gang Billie Jean in Ecru White). The pattern calls for DK-weight yarn, which would have yielded a breezier, open-weight fabric. As it stands, my version is stiff and heavy. I’m actually ok with it, because I think it will look great over long-sleeved dresses in the fall and winter. When I make this again, and I definitely will, I’ll stick to the recommended yarn weight. 

I started this top on June 23 and finished on August 31, so that actually isn’t too long by my standards. I did run out of yarn at one point, and I also ran out of steam. I was having doubts over my yarn choice, but I had gone past the point of no return. I’m happy I stuck with it!

I loved the construction of this top. The instructions are really well written, especially since there’s a lot going on. I recently started using the Knit Companion app, which would have come in handy for the charts and instructions. I can’t wait to try it again with the app to help me along.

One thing I would definitely change next time is the neck construction. It’s really difficult to slip over my head – and that’s for a variety of reasons (my large head being only one of them). I think it would be remedied by using a DK-weight yarn, sizing up my needles for the cast off, and stitching loosely if I fold over again.

I don’t usually make the same project back to back, but I’m pretty tempted with this one! I’m itching to try it in a wool that suits the pattern recommendations. My knit wishlist is SO long right now, so I think it’ll have to wait. If you’d like to check out more of my notes and thoughts on this pattern, you can view my project page on Ravelry: 

I recommend the Rosenlund Top to anyone looking to build their skills. It’s a little complicated on the outset, but it’s easy once you get the hang of it. I also think this would make a great layering piece for fall and winter – so don’t let the upcoming cooler weather stop you. 

Happy making, 

Jackie

A little disclaimer: This blog is very small, so it almost goes without saying, but I am not affiliated with any brands mentioned in this post.