Beginner Sentro Summer Tank Top Pattern

Make this breezy Sentro Summer Tank Top Pattern with just 2 flat panels and cute crochet sleeves! Perfect for beginners—no shaping required. Looking for an easy and fast summer project? In this tutorial, I’ll show you how to make a super cute Sentro summer top using the Sentro 48 needle knitting machine. Perfect for beginners, this knit top comes together in under 2 hours and uses simple panels and easy assembly.

Get your yarn ready and let’s knit something breezy and beautiful!

There’s something so satisfying about a quick summer project, especially when it’s cute and handmade. I wanted to create a top that even a total beginner could knit on the Sentro 48 needle circular machine—and this one might be the easiest yet!

Made using two flat panels, with no increases or decreases, it’s the perfect entry-level top. And to give it a little charm? I added some simple crochet sleeves and a lacy crochet back. The result: a lightweight, beachy top that feels handmade, but polished.

Yes, it’s that easy. Let’s get into it.

Material needed for a Sentro Summer Tank Top Pattern

• Sentro 48 Needle Knitting Machine
• DK or light worsted cotton + acrylic blend yarn (approx. 150g total)
• 3.5 mm crochet hook
• Tapestry needle
• Scissors
• Stitch markers
• Optional: Ribbon or matching yarn for the bow
• Caydo Icord maker or any Icord machine (read my Icord machines review here)

Step 1: Knit Two Flat Panels

For a medium size, you’ll be making 2 identical flat panels using the Sentro.

Sizes	Stitches	Rows	Panel Length (cm)
XS	37	56	30
S	41	66	34
M	45	76	38
L	2 x 25	86	42
XL	2 x 27	96	46

How to make flat panels on Sentro?

Set your machine to flat panel mode.

Cast on 45 stitches (leaving 3 empty to work the edges). Make 4 rows with waste yarn that will be removed at the end. Crank until your panel measures around 35 cm in height, about 70 rows with a Gauge of 10cm – 4″= 20 rows.

At the end, make a full row without yarn and secure the stitches by removing them with a tapestry needle.

Tip: Keep your tension even, and don’t worry if the edges curl—we’ll block it later!

Step 2: Assemble the Body of Sentro Summer Tank Top Pattern

Place both panels sides together. Seam the sides using mattress stitch.

Bind off loosely with a crochet hook and repeat for the second panel.

✨ Try it on as you go—make the armholes and neckline as wide or narrow as you like!

Step 3: Crochet the back of Sentro Summer Tank Top Pattern

On each Sentro Summer Tank Top Pattern Panel end

Place markers by trying the summer top on and finding the best place for the sleeves. I counted 14 sts from the edge.

Join yarn with a slip stitch at 14 sts before the knitted panel edge.
Row 1: CH4 *Skip 1 DC 1 CH1 and repeat from * until you reach the next marker on the other side.
Repeat this row, turning on each end, and make rows until this part reaches the bottom of your neck. I made 11 rows.

Step 4: Add Crochet Sleeves

From the last row, make enough CHs to start the sleeve and join with a Slip stitch to the marker on the opposite side.

Row 1: SC in the 1st CH then SC1 HDC 2 (one in each CH) and *DC 1, CH1 skip 1 and repeat from * all the way to the other side working on the side of the back stitches. When you reach the other side, CH1 and Slip st into the next CH st SC for 2 st, CH 1 and repeat this row going the opposite way.

I made 5 rows for my sleeve, but you can make more or fewer depending on your preference.

We’re keeping it super simple here. This is more of a decorative sleeve cap than a full sleeve.

Step 5: Make the Bow

A little bow adds a playful touch! You can I-cord one or use ribbon. You need to make a 30 cm / 12 in long I-cord. This is super simple to make using a Caydo I-cord electric Machine.

Style It Your Way

Wear it loose and breezy, or tuck it into high-waisted shorts. The flat panel design makes this a go-to project for beginners, and with different yarns or color combos, you can easily make more than one.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this Sentro Summer Tank Top Pattern in other sizes?

Yes! Just make your panels wider or longer based on your measurements. For M/L, try 45 needles and 35 cm tall. For small, go with 41 needles wide. For L and XL make 2 panels for each side and seam with Mattress Stitch.

What yarn is best for summer tops?

Cotton or cotton-blend yarns are ideal—they’re breathable, soft, and don’t stretch too much. For summer projects on the Sentro, cotton yarn blends is your best friend. Look for DK (light worsted) or even sport weight cotton blends—they’re breathable, lightweight, and don’t make the machine jam as easily as super thick yarns. Some good options are 100% mercerized cotton or soft blends like cotton-acrylic.

Bonus tip: avoid splitty yarns to keep your cranking stress-free!

Is blocking a Sentro Summer Tank Top Pattern necessary?

It helps! Especially for curling edges. Steam blocking works great for flat Sentro panels.

Can I add full sleeves instead?

Yes! You can crochet or even knit full sleeves and attach them after seaming the body.

Can a Sentro Summer Tank Top Pattern be made on the Addi king?

Absolutely. Just adjust the panel width based on the Addi’s 46-needle size which is 43 needles instead of 45 for the Sentro, you always need 3 empty needles to work the panel edges properly.

Can beginners use a circular knitting machine for clothing?

Yes, absolutely! The Sentro is beginner-friendly and great for learning the basics of machine knitting. You don’t need to know how to hand knit or sew to start making simple clothing like tops, shrugs, or ponchos. Most beginner projects use flat panels that are joined together, so as long as you can crank and count rows, you can make wearable pieces in no time.

How do you join Sentro panels for a top?

To join Sentro panels, the most popular method is the mattress stitch or whip stitch, done with a tapestry needle and matching yarn. Just line up your two flat panels (right sides together), then sew along the sides and shoulders, leaving space for armholes and neckline. If you want a visible, decorative seam, you can also crochet the pieces together with slip stitches!

What’s the easiest Sentro Tank top pattern for warm weather?

The easiest Sentro crop top for summer is a two-panel flat top, made with 45 stitches wide and 40–45 cm long panels. You simply knit two rectangles, sew them together at the sides and shoulders, and add crochet or ribbon straps. Want to take it up a notch? Add tiny crochet sleeves or a bow to decorate it. No shaping, no increases—just fast and fun fashion!

Watch the Video Tutorial!

Conclusion

This Sentro summer top proves that simple can still be stylish. With just two panels, a touch of crochet, and a sweet little bow, you’ve got a comfy, handmade piece that’s beginner-friendly and full of charm.

Have fun experimenting with colors and trims—and don’t forget to share your makes with me!

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