Boxes

Boxes Knitted Sweater by Pat Menchini

What is Being Made

Boxes is a knitted sweater design available in five sizes to fit bust measurements from 76-81 cm up to 117-122 cm (30-32 inches to 46-48 inches). The finished garment features an actual bust measurement ranging from 91 cm to 132 cm depending on size selection. This intermediate-level knitting project produces a pullover sweater with a length to shoulder shaping between 57 and 62 cm (22½ to 24½ inches) and consistent sleeve length of 27 cm (10½ inches) across all sizes.

Techniques and Construction Methods

The Boxes sweater employs fundamental knitting techniques suitable for intermediate crafters. The garment is constructed using the stocking stitch as the primary fabric, which creates a smooth, classic knit surface. The pattern requires working with both straight needles and circular needles, allowing for both flat pieces and seamless construction depending on the builder's preference. Tension control is essential to this project's success, with specific gauge requirements that must be met before beginning.

Stitches Used

The primary stitch throughout the Boxes sweater is stocking stitch (stockinette stitch), which alternates knit and purl rows to create the characteristic smooth fabric face. The pattern also incorporates stitch holder techniques for managing live stitches during construction, a standard intermediate skill for shaping necklines and managing garment sections.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

This pattern calls for King Cole Merino Blend DK yarn, a double-knit weight fiber that provides excellent drape and wearability. The yarn is supplied at 104 metres (115 yards) per 50g ball. The design utilizes a four-color palette:

• Color A (Plum, shade 3294): 7 to 9 balls depending on size
• Color B (Truffle, shade 1989): 1 to 3 balls depending on size
• Color C (Aran, shade 46): 2 to 4 balls depending on size
• Color D (Lavender, shade 927): 1 to 3 balls depending on size

The multicolor approach creates the distinctive "boxes" visual element that defines this sweater design.

Needles and Tools Required

Construction requires two pairs of straight needles: one pair in 3.25 mm (UK 10, US 3) size and one pair in 4 mm (UK 4, US 6) size. Additionally, a set of four 3.25 mm circular needles is needed for ribbed sections or seamless construction. A stitch holder completes the essential tools for this project. The 4 mm needles are used for the main fabric to achieve the required tension of 22 stitches and 28 rows over 10 cm (4 inches) in stocking stitch.

Tension and Gauge Information

Achieving the correct tension is critical for this intermediate project. The pattern specifies 22 stitches and 28 rows to 10 cm (4 inches) measured over stocking stitch using 4 mm needles. Knitters must test their tension before beginning to ensure proper fit and finished measurements, as variations in tension will directly affect the final garment dimensions.