Sandvoe

Sandvoe Yoke Sweater by Ella Gordon

What is Being Made

The Sandvoe is a traditionally inspired Shetland yoke sweater designed by Ella Gordon. This knitted pullover features a cropped silhouette with short sleeves, offering a modern interpretation of classic Shetland knitwear. The design is available in ten sizes ranging from 32 inches to 52 inches bust measurement, with length options from 11 inches to 12 inches measured to the underarm. The sweater is inspired by 1970s color palettes and is intended to be worn as an easy-to-throw-on layering piece for when additional warmth is needed.

Garment Specifications

• Bust Measurements: 32, 34, 36, 38, 40, 42, 44, 46, 48, 50, and 52 inches (81.25 to 132 centimeters)
• Length to Underarm: 28 to 30.5 centimeters depending on size
• Upper Arm Circumference: 28 to 35.5 centimeters across sizes
• Yoke Depth: 23 to 30.5 centimeters measured at center front
• Sleeve Length: 10.25 to 12.75 centimeters
• Recommended Ease: Pattern is shown worn with 5 centimeters (2 inches) of positive ease on the 36-inch size

Knitting Techniques and Stitches

The Sandvoe employs yoke construction, a traditional technique where the sweater is knitted from the top down, beginning with the yoke and expanding outward to create the body and sleeves. This method is characteristic of Shetland knitwear and allows for precise fit adjustments at the yoke depth. The yoke features stranded colorwork, a technique where multiple colors of yarn are carried across the back of the work to create patterned designs typical of traditional Shetland designs.

The construction method involves knitting the yoke in the round, then dividing stitches to continue the body and sleeves separately. Decreases are strategically placed within the yoke pattern to shape the garment and create the proper fit across the shoulders and upper body. The short sleeves are knitted in the round from the yoke outward, with shaping to fit the upper arm measurement. Ribbing or other edge finishes are likely used at the cuffs, neckline, and hem to provide structure and prevent curling.

Yarn and Materials

The Sandvoe is designed to be knitted in Jamieson & Smith 2ply Jumper Weight yarn, which is a fingering-weight yarn made from real Shetland wool. This yarn weight classification indicates a 4-ply construction suitable for creating fabric with excellent stitch definition and drape. Shetland wool is prized for its softness, elasticity, and traditional association with Fair Isle and Shetland knitwear patterns. The 1970s-inspired color palette suggests the use of multiple yarn colors for the stranded colorwork sections of the yoke.

Skill Level

The Sandvoe is rated as an intermediate knitting project. This difficulty level reflects the techniques required, including yoke construction, stranded colorwork, and working in the round. Knitters should be comfortable with reading charts for colorwork patterns, managing multiple yarn colors simultaneously, and executing decreases within pattern sequences. Prior experience with sweater construction and colorwork techniques is recommended before attempting this design.

Format and Designer Information

The Sandvoe is available as a downloadable PDF pattern from independent designer Ella Gordon. This format allows knitters to access the complete pattern instructions, sizing charts, and colorwork charts immediately upon purchase, making it convenient for both digital and printed reference during the knitting process.