How to replicate a tank

I bought this tank (or shell if you will) for a couple of dollars several years ago at the Goodwill and even though I’m a busty gal, it fits me well. Every time I wear it, I receive compliments and nearly always the question “Did you make it?”

Well it seemed like it would be easy enough to replicate and for many years I’ve been wanting to so I finally asked my friend and knitwear designer, Roxanne Seabright of Artfibers to help me. I hang out there every Wednesday night anyway.

As a matter of fact, Rox will help anyone design a custom pattern. It’s a lot of fun too!

The whole process was surprisingly easy and straightforward. It might seem elementary to some but bear with me here. The first thing is swatching and choosing a yarn. I chose Brioche, a nylon/cotton blend with a cool, nubby, thick/thin texture in a cool, green shade.

Next, the top was measured and the resulting figures plugged into a software program called “Knitware”.

This is where it really gets cool.

In addition to the gauge and row count you can customize the pattern using all sorts of variables such as finished length, neckline (I chose “ballet”), amount of ribbing, if you want it, and the list goes on. After everything is input, the printer spits out a pattern ready for cast on. Way cool!

Here’s current progress on the back.

My only complaint is that I wish I had chosen something with a little complexity to it. The straight stockinette is not very challenging and feels like a chore. I also wish I had done this a lot sooner so that I could be wearing the top in the current heat wave we’re having.

Hopefully it will be ready for the next one!