Abella

Abella Knit Sweater by Maloraé Designs

What is Being Made

Abella is a downloadable knitting pattern for a fitted sweater designed by Maloraé Designs. This intermediate-level project creates a classic pullover sweater available in six sizes, ranging from a bust circumference of 90 cm (35.5") to 120 cm (47"). The pattern is designed with minimal positive ease of approximately 0-5 cm (0-2"), creating a close, tailored fit. The finished length from underarm to hem measures 42 cm (16.5"), with sleeves extending 48 cm (18.5") from underarm to cuff.

Techniques Used

Abella incorporates several intermediate knitting techniques that add visual interest and structural refinement to the garment:

• Provisional Cast-On: Used to create a flexible foundation that allows for later grafting or joining, providing a seamless construction method for specific sections of the sweater.
• Cable Without Cable Needle: A technique that creates cable textures using only the working needles, eliminating the need for an additional tool while achieving traditional cable stitch effects.
• Wrap and Turn (W&T): A short-row shaping technique that creates gradual contours and custom fit without visible holes, commonly used for tailoring sleeve caps and necklines.

Stitches Used

The primary stitch structure in Abella is stockinette stitch, which creates the smooth, classic fabric base for this sweater. This fundamental knit stitch pattern is combined with cable techniques to add textural variation and design detail throughout the garment.

Materials and Gauge

Abella is designed to be knitted with sport weight yarn. The pattern specifies Karisma from Drops as the recommended yarn, though any sport weight yarn of similar characteristics can be substituted. Yardage requirements range from approximately 950 meters (1,040 yards) for Size 1 to 1,250 meters (1,370 yards) for Size 6.

The pattern calls for two needle sizes: 4 mm (US 6) needles for the main body and 3.5 mm (US 4) needles for ribbing sections. Additional tools needed include stitch markers and stitch holders for managing stitches during construction. The gauge is established at 20 stitches and 25 rows over 10 cm (4") in stockinette stitch on 4 mm needles after blocking, which is essential for achieving the correct finished measurements.