The Carreau Top Story
This design began as an idea I pitched to I Like Knitting for their April issue. They were looking for fresh, hand knit patterns for spring, but I couldn’t help imagining how beautifully this would translate on the knitting machine. The combination of a scallop rib and a tuck check felt graphic and trendy, a fresh take on a timeless pattern for both crafts.
For the magazine sample, the editors envisioned crisp cotton in a bright, joyful palette. I chose Rowan Summerlite 4-ply, a yarn that gives the fabric a light, open quality; perfect for warm weather. Swatches are where the real work happens. I tried different color combinations, made countless tiny samples and sketched out layouts until the balance felt right. The scallop rib edging was particularly fun to figure out.
When it came time to create the machine knit version, I wanted to emphasize contrast: a simpler color palette and shaping that add curves into the square check pattern. I turned to Brown Sheep’s Nature Spun, a fingering-weight wool spun in the U.S. With over 80 colors to choose from, it was easy to find the perfect two-tone pairing. In wool, the fabric gained more coverage and structure while still being lightweight—an ideal balance for fall.
Once the hand knitting pattern was finalized, writing the machine version was straightforward, but still, testers were essential. I invited three trusted knitters to try the pattern, and their interpretations reminded me just how flexible this design could be. Each version reflected their personality, proving how much room there is to make this top your own. Thanks again Katie, Laura and Lala!
On the machine, the sweater begins with rows of tuck rib before shifting into the micro check stitch. Setting up the stitch counts takes precision, but once established, it becomes rhythmic and meditative. The shaping, though, is what makes the piece sing. Well-placed darts sculpt the fabric to the body, turning simple geometry into a personal fit. For knitters ready to go further, I always recommend Shirley Paden’s Knitwear Design Workshop and Amy Herzog’s Knit to Flatter, two incredible resources for garment customization.
Since the color layout is so simple I wanted to experiment the texture a bit. By finishing the sleeves with the wrong side out, the sweater gained an extra layer of visual interest—an unexpected detail that feels both subtle and eye catching.
Whether you’re looking for an airy spring top or a warm wool sweater, this design offers space to play, adapt, and make it your own.
✨ Get the Carreau hand knitting pattern here and the machine knitting pattern here
