Sideways Sweater

Sideways Sweater by 10 rows a day

What is Being Made

The Sideways Sweater is a knitted pullover garment designed by Maryna Shevchenko and available as a downloadable PDF pattern. This sweater is engineered in 18 different sizes to accommodate a wide range of body types and ages. The size range includes five children's sizes (to fit chest 55–68 cm, approximately ages 2–10), three slim women's sizes (to fit bust 76–84 cm), five regular women's sizes (to fit bust 88–104 cm), and five curvy women's sizes (to fit bust 110–134 cm). The sweater features a close, fitted silhouette, though knitters can select a larger size for a more relaxed fit if desired.

Construction Technique

This sweater is constructed using a sideways knitting method, meaning the garment is knitted horizontally from one side seam to the other rather than from the bottom up or top down. This sideways approach offers several advantages: it allows for easy customization of length, provides natural waist shaping opportunities, and can create interesting stitch pattern effects that run vertically on the finished garment. The pattern provides clear instructions for all size groups, with measurements separated by forward slashes to accommodate the 18 different options simultaneously.

Stitches and Techniques

While the complete stitch list is not detailed in the provided content, the pattern uses fundamental knitting stitches suitable for a beginner-level project. The sideways construction method requires understanding how to work increases and decreases to shape the garment as it grows horizontally. Knitters will need to be comfortable with basic knit and purl stitches, cast-on and bind-off methods, and seaming techniques to join the side seams after the main body is complete.

Materials Required

This pattern calls for DK weight yarn, a lightweight yarn that produces a fabric with excellent drape and breathability—ideal for a fitted sweater design. The specific yardage requirements vary by size, with children's sizes requiring less yardage than adult sizes, particularly the curvy women's sizes. Knitters will need appropriately sized needles compatible with DK weight yarn, typically in the US 4–6 range, though the pattern will specify exact needle requirements. The pattern is presented as a downloadable PDF, making it accessible for immediate use after purchase.

Sizing and Fit

The Sideways Sweater accommodates diverse body shapes through its extensive size range. The pattern emphasizes measuring a favorite sweater's bust measurement and comparing it to the finished measurements provided to ensure the best fit. Because the sweater has a close fit, knitters who prefer more ease are advised to choose one or two sizes larger than their actual measurements. This thoughtful approach to sizing makes the pattern inclusive and practical for a broad audience of knitters.

Difficulty Level

Rated as a beginner-level project, the Sideways Sweater is accessible to knitters new to garment construction. The sideways knitting method simplifies certain aspects of sweater making, and the clear, organized instructions make it straightforward to follow along. Beginners will gain valuable experience in garment shaping, seaming, and working with multiple sizes simultaneously.