Lansdowne

Lansdowne Turtleneck Pullover by Laura Chau

What Is Being Made

Lansdowne is a casual turtleneck pullover sweater designed by Laura Chau. This intermediate-level knitting project features a relaxed, everyday silhouette with a classic turtleneck neckline. The sweater is designed to be worn with 0–4 inches of positive ease at the bust for a comfortable, slightly loose fit that flatters the wearer.

Design Features and Shaping

The Lansdowne pullover incorporates thoughtful construction details that combine both aesthetic appeal and functional fit. Waist shaping is achieved through slipped stitch dart lines worked on the back of the sweater, creating a flattering silhouette without relying on decreases and increases that might disrupt stitch patterns. The hem and cuffs showcase contrasting Latvian Braids, a traditional technique that adds visual interest and textural depth to these edge areas. A colourful motif serves as a graphic focal point, providing a fun pop of color against the main body of the sweater.

Knitting Techniques and Stitches

This intermediate knitting project employs several key techniques:

• Latvian Braids: A traditional braiding technique worked into the hem and cuffs using contrasting yarn, creating a decorative and textured edge
• Slipped stitch darts: Used along the back for waist shaping, this technique creates subtle contouring without disrupting the overall stitch pattern
• Motif knitting: A colorful graphic pattern is incorporated into the body of the sweater, likely worked using stranded colorwork or a similar technique
• Skein alternation: A professional yarn management technique recommended for hand-dyed yarns, where knitters work 2 rows from one skein, then 2 rows from another, twisting yarns together at the row beginning to minimize visible shade changes

Yarn and Materials

Lansdowne is worked in Lorna's Laces Haymarket, a super soft worsted weight yarn composed of 100% Blue Faced Leicester wool. This yarn is hand-dyed, which adds unique color variation to each finished garment. The yardage is 215 yards per 3.5 ounces (approximately 196 meters per 100 grams), providing a standard worsted weight that works at a comfortable pace. The pattern recommends alternating between skeins during construction to balance color variations inherent in hand-dyed yarns, ensuring a more cohesive final appearance.

Sizing and Fit Guidance

The Lansdowne is available in multiple sizes and is shown in a size 41.5 inches (105 centimeters) at the bust with 3 inches (7.5 centimeters) of positive ease. The designer recommends measuring a sweater that fits well and selecting the size closest to that measurement, rather than relying solely on standard sizing charts. This approach ensures the best fit with hand-knit garments.

Pattern Support

The Lansdowne pattern has been technically edited by Alexandra Virgiel, ensuring accuracy and clarity throughout the instructions. This downloadable PDF pattern is suitable for intermediate-level knitters who are comfortable with shaping techniques, colorwork, and traditional braiding methods.