Starboard

Starboard Knit Sweater by Alicia Plummer

What is Being Made

Starboard is a children's knit sweater designed by Alicia Plummer, available in five sizes to fit ages approximately 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10 years old. The sweater features chest measurements ranging from 24 inches to 31 inches (61 to 79 centimeters) and is intended to be worn with 2 to 3 inches (5 to 7.5 centimeters) of positive ease at the chest for comfortable wear. This downloadable PDF pattern provides complete instructions for creating a fitted, wearable garment suitable for children.

Construction Techniques

Starboard employs a hybrid construction method that combines flat knitting with circular knitting. The sweater is worked flat initially, then joined in the round at the front once the front neck shaping is completed. This technique allows for precise shaping of the neckline while maintaining the efficiency of circular knitting for the body sections. The pattern incorporates short rows as a shaping technique, which are used to create three-dimensional fit and contour in specific areas of the garment. Knitters are directed to external resources for detailed short-row tutorials to ensure proper execution of this intermediate-level technique.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The primary stitch used in Starboard is stockinette stitch, which creates a smooth, classic fabric with a flat appearance on the right side. The pattern incorporates raglan shaping, indicated by the use of four raglan place markers throughout construction. A stretchy bind off is specified for the final edge, ensuring that the neckline and cuffs maintain elasticity and comfort against the wearer's skin. This bind-off technique is referenced to external knitting resources for detailed instruction.

Yarn and Needles

Starboard is designed for DK weight yarn, requiring between 480 and 850 yards (440 to 777 meters) depending on the selected size. The yardage increases with each size increment to accommodate the larger dimensions of older children. Knitters will need two sets of circular needles: US 7 (4.5 mm) needles in 24-inch (61 cm) length for the main fabric worked in stockinette stitch, and US 5 (3.5 mm) needles in 24-inch (61 cm) length for ribbed edgings or areas requiring a tighter gauge. Double-pointed needles (DPNs) are acceptable alternatives to circular needles. The pattern specifies a gauge of 20 stitches and 28 rows over 4 inches (10 centimeters) in stockinette stitch on the larger needles, making accurate gauge swatching essential before beginning the project.

Additional Notions and Tools

• Five place markers (four for raglan increases and one for marking the beginning of round)
• Darning needle for weaving in yarn ends after completion

This intermediate-level knitting project is suitable for knitters with experience in garment construction, shaping techniques, and working with circular needles.