Cycle tracks

Cycle Tracks Unisex Pullover Sweater

What Is Being Made

Cycle Tracks is a classic unisex pullover sweater designed by Rita Taylor, featuring a round neckline and set-in sleeves. This downloadable knitting pattern is available in three sizes to fit 38/40 inch, 42/44 inch, and 48/50 inch chest measurements, making it suitable for a range of body types and fitting preferences.

Craft and Technique Overview

This is a knitting project classified as beginner level, making it an excellent choice for knitters who have mastered basic techniques and are ready to tackle a full garment with shaping. The pattern involves fundamental garment construction techniques including ribbed edging, armhole shaping through strategic decreases, and shoulder shaping to create a properly fitted pullover.

Stitches Used

• Rib stitch – Used for the initial 3-inch cuff at the lower edge, worked in a structured pattern of knit and purl stitches (k3, p1, k1, p1, k5, p1, k1, p1) to create elasticity and a finished edge
• Broken rib pattern – The main stitch pattern for the body of the sweater, alternating rows of the rib sequence with purl rows to create visual texture and structure
• Stockinette stitch elements – Incorporated within the pattern rows through the knit stitches
• Decreases – Used strategically for armhole shaping (single stitch decreases on alternate rows) and cast-off techniques for shoulder shaping

Materials and Needles

This project requires DK weight yarn in quantities of 650 grams (smallest size), 700 grams (medium size), or 750 grams (largest size), depending on which size you are knitting. The pattern calls for three needle sizes to accommodate different sections: 3.00mm needles for initial setup, 3.25mm needles for the ribbed cuff, and 4.00mm needles for the main body and broken rib pattern work.

Tension and Gauge

Achieving the correct tension is essential for proper fit. The pattern specifies a tension of 24 stitches by 30 rows over the broken rib pattern when working on 4mm needles. Checking your gauge before beginning the project ensures your finished sweater will match the intended measurements.

Pattern Construction Details

The back piece begins with casting on between 129 and 157 stitches depending on size, with 3 inches of ribbed edging worked on 3.25mm needles to create a neat, elastic lower edge. The body is then worked in the broken rib pattern on 4mm needles until the piece reaches 17 inches or your desired length. Armhole shaping is achieved by casting off stitches at the beginning of rows, followed by single stitch decreases on alternate rows to create a tapered armhole. The shoulders are shaped through a series of cast-offs to create proper shoulder seams, with stitches remaining on a holder for the neckline. The front is worked following the same instructions as the back through the armhole shaping point, with additional shaping details provided in the pattern.