Bulls & Braids Boxy

Bulls & Braids Boxy Knit Sweater by Cheryl Beckerich

What Is Being Made

The Bulls & Braids Boxy is an intermediate-level knit sweater designed by Cheryl Beckerich. This downloadable PDF pattern creates a boxy-fit pullover sweater available in ten sizes to fit bust measurements from 33 inches (84 cm) to 60 inches (152.5 cm). The finished garment features a relaxed, oversized silhouette with a bust circumference ranging from 54 inches (137 cm) to 81 inches (205.5 cm), depending on size selection. The sweater length measures approximately 22 to 23 inches (56 to 58.5 cm), making it a versatile piece suitable for layering or wearing as a standalone top.

Knitting Techniques and Construction

This sweater is constructed using circular knitting techniques, which allow for seamless construction and efficient stitch management. The pattern employs both longer and shorter circular needles to accommodate different sections of the garment. The use of double-pointed needles is incorporated for smaller circumference areas, such as necklines or cuffs. The design utilizes wet blocking finishing, where the completed sweater is wet with cool water and laid flat to dry, ensuring proper shape and gauge accuracy.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The primary stitch used throughout the Bulls & Braids Boxy is stockinette stitch, which creates a smooth, classic fabric with a defined V-pattern on the right side and bumpy texture on the reverse. This fundamental knit stitch provides an ideal canvas for the sweater's clean, minimalist aesthetic and allows the yarn's color and texture to take center stage.

Yarn and Needle Requirements

The pattern specifies DK-weight or light worsted-weight yarn, with the sample shown in Knit Picks Swish in Color White 24064. Yarn requirements range from 1,300 yards (1,200 meters) for the smallest size to 2,025 yards (1,875 meters) for the largest size. The pattern provides yardage in both imperial and metric measurements for precision. Each skein of Knit Picks Swish contains 1.75 ounces (50 grams) and yields 123 yards (112 meters).

Needles required include:

• Size 6 US (4 mm) circular needle, 36 inches (91 cm) long for working the main body sections
• Size 6 US (4 mm) circular needle, 16 inches (40 cm) long for smaller circumference sections
• Size 6 US (4 mm) double-pointed needles for completing tight areas

All needles should be selected to obtain the specified gauge of 20 stitches and 26 rows per 4 inches (10 cm) in stockinette stitch after wet blocking.

Sizing and Fit Information

The Bulls & Braids Boxy accommodates a wide range of body types with ten carefully graded sizes. The pattern offers generous positive ease, with finished bust measurements exceeding intended fit sizes by approximately 21 inches (34 cm) across the smallest size, creating the characteristic boxy silhouette. This relaxed fit is ideal for those seeking comfort and movement in their knitwear.