Barley

Barley Sweater by Jennifer Wood

What is Being Made

Barley is a downloadable knitting pattern for a pullover sweater designed by Jennifer Wood. This intermediate-level garment is available in ten sizes, with finished bust measurements ranging from 31.5 inches (79 cm) to 61.5 inches (154 cm), accommodating a wide range of body types. The sweater is modeled with a slight negative ease, creating a fitted silhouette.

Knitting Techniques and Construction

This sweater employs several key knitting techniques to create its structure and visual interest. The pattern utilizes both stockinette stitch and rib stitch in its construction, with the ribbing providing elasticity and definition to the garment. Cable work is incorporated into the design, requiring the use of a cable needle during knitting. The sweater is worked in the round using circular needles, a technique that creates seamless construction and allows for efficient stitch management across large sections of fabric.

Stitches Used

• Stockinette Stitch – The primary stitch forming the main fabric body, creating a smooth, classic knit appearance
• Rib Stitch – Used for fitted edgings and textural elements, providing stretch and recovery
• Cable Stitches – Decorative twisted stitch patterns that add visual depth and dimension

Materials and Yarn Options

The Barley pattern accommodates two distinct yarn options, allowing knitters to choose based on their preferences and budget.

Primary Yarn Option: Julie Asselin Nurtured Fine, a 100% wool yarn in the DK weight category. This yarn provides 780 yards per 112-gram skein. The recommended color is Miel. Yardage requirements vary by size, ranging from 790 yards (725 meters) for the smallest size to 1,870 yards (1,710 meters) for the largest size, requiring between 1 and 3 skeins depending on the finished garment size.

Alternative Yarn Option: Julie Asselin Anatolia, a luxurious blend of 60% mohair and 40% silk, also in DK weight. This yarn provides 330 yards per 25-gram skein in the Ale colorway. This option requires 3 to 5 skeins depending on size, offering a more delicate, shimmering fabric with enhanced drape.

Needles and Gauge

The pattern calls for Size 4 (3.5mm) circular needles in both 16-inch (40 cm) and 24-inch (60 cm) lengths, along with a set of 4 or 5 double-pointed needles for working smaller circumferences. The gauge is 20 stitches and 28 rounds per 4 inches (10 cm) in stockinette stitch, and 16 stitches per 3 inches (7.5 cm) in rib stitch. Maintaining accurate gauge is essential for achieving the intended finished measurements.

Additional Supplies

Beyond yarn and needles, knitters will need stitch markers to track pattern repeats and construction sections, a cable needle for manipulating cable stitches, stitch holders or waste yarn for securing stitches during construction, and a tapestry needle for weaving in ends and seaming if needed.