Skill Level: Intermediate (skills needed: stitches listed below, knitting in the round, pick up and knit stitches, single crochet and crochet chain stitch)

A top-down shirt for a larger body can be designed to flatter by incorporating shaping and ease in areas that provide a comfortable, flowing fit. This pattern includes some gentle waist shaping and a flared hem for added ease around the hips. A scoop neckline and raglan sleeves also help with a smooth silhouette. Crocheted lace trim on the cuffs add an optional whimsy. A working knowledge of single crochet and chain stitches is required for the trim work. This shirt is designed to be easily adjustable. You can lengthen or shorten the body and sleeves, add more shaping, or skip the waist shaping altogether for a relaxed fit.

Materials:
Worsted weight yarn (approx. 900-1500 yards, depending on size)
Circular needles size US 7 (4.5 mm) and US 8 (5.0 mm) or size needed to achieve gauge
Stitch markers
Tapestry needle
Scrap yarn or stitch holders
Gauge: 18 sts and 24 rows = 4 inches (10 cm) in stockinette stitch
Sizes: 1X (2X, 3X, 4X, 5X) – pattern written for approximate bust sizes 46” (50”, 54”, 58”, 62”). The finished garment has 2-4 inches of ease at the bust for a comfortable fit.
Abbreviations:

CO: Cast On
BO: Bind Off
k: Knit
p: Purl
kfb: Knit front and back (increase)
k2tog: Knit two together (decrease)
pm: Place marker
sm: Slip marker
st(s): Stitch(es)
rnd(s): Round(s)
RS: Right side
WS: Wrong side