Galina pullover

Galina Pullover by Bristol Ivy

What Is Being Made

The Galina pullover is a women's knit sweater inspired by the elegant and effortless aesthetic of classic ballet sweaters. This intermediate-level design features soft lines and beautiful drape, making it suitable for any occasion and particularly well-suited as a fall sweater. The pullover is available in seven finished bust sizes ranging from 33 ¼ inches to 56 ¾ inches (83 to 142 cm), with the design intended to be worn with 1–2 inches of positive ease for a comfortable, flattering fit.

Construction Technique

The Galina pullover employs a unique bottom-up construction method. The sweater is knit beginning at the lower body and progresses upward, with the sleeves continuing seamlessly up from the body itself. This approach contributes to the garment's signature soft lines and excellent drape, creating a cohesive design that flows naturally from the body through the sleeves.

Stitch Pattern and Techniques

The design features an interesting stitch pattern that works in conjunction with stockinette stitch to create visual interest and texture. The primary stitch used throughout the construction is stockinette stitch, which is worked in the round using circular needles. The gauge for this pattern is 24 ½ stitches and 35 rounds over 4 inches (10 cm) in stockinette stitch after blocking, providing a standard gauge for worsted-weight knitting.

The construction utilizes both circular needles and double-pointed needles, allowing the knitter to seamlessly transition between flat and in-the-round knitting as needed for the body and sleeve sections.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The Galina pullover is designed to be knit with Finch by Quince & Co., a yarn composed of 100% American wool. This yarn is classified as 4-ply weight and provides 221 yards (202 meters) per 50-gram skein. The yardage required varies by size, ranging from 5 skeins for the smallest size up to 10 skeins for the largest size. The pattern calls for the Delft colorway.

Needles and Notions

• One 32-inch circular needle in size US 6 (4mm)
• One set of double-pointed needles (dpns) in size US 6 (4mm), or size needed to obtain gauge
• Stitch marker for tracking rounds
• Stitch holder or waste yarn for holding stitches
• Tapestry needle for weaving in ends and finishing

Skill Level and Design Approach

Rated as an intermediate-level project, the Galina pullover is suitable for knitters with foundational skills who are ready to tackle more complex construction methods. The combination of bottom-up construction, in-the-round knitting, and the integration of an interesting stitch pattern makes this design an engaging project that builds technical competency while producing a sophisticated, wearable garment.