Strathspey Pullover

Strathspey Pullover by Angela Hahn

What is Being Made

The Strathspey Pullover is a classic knitted sweater featuring set-in sleeves and a sophisticated twisted stitch texture. This intermediate-level design creates a flattering garment that skims the body without clinging, achieved through alternating waves of twisted stitches rather than traditional ribbing. The pullover is available in seven different sizes, with bracelet-length sleeves that end partway down the forearm.

Construction Techniques

The Strathspey Pullover employs a combination of seamless and flat knitting techniques to achieve its polished finish. The body is worked in the round from the bottom up to the armholes, creating a seamless torso. Once the armholes are reached, the front and back are worked flat to allow for the set-in sleeve construction. The shoulders are joined using a 3-needle bind-off, a technique that creates a strong, neat seam. The sleeves are picked up seamlessly around the armholes and worked downward; the sleeve caps are shaped using short rows, a technique that creates smooth, gradual shaping without visible decreases.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The defining characteristic of this pullover is its use of twisted stitches arranged in alternating wave patterns. These twisted stitch columns form gentle ripples throughout the fabric, creating visual interest and subtle texture without the rigid structure of traditional ribbing. The twisted stitches add a rhythmic, sophisticated quality to the design while maintaining a fabric that drapes elegantly on the body.

Materials

• Yarn: Super fine weight yarn (approximately 175 yards per 50 grams). The pattern is shown in Simply Sock Yarn, which is composed of 80% superwash wool and 20% nylon. Yardage requirements range from 1070 yards for the smallest size up to 2190 yards for the largest size, requiring between 7 and 13 skeins depending on size.
• Needles: US size 4 (3.5 mm) needles are required for this project.

Yarn Weight and Difficulty

This pattern uses super fine weight yarn, also known as fingering or sock weight, which creates a refined, drapey fabric. The Strathspey Pullover is rated as an intermediate-level project, making it suitable for knitters who have mastered basic techniques and are ready to tackle more complex shaping and stitch patterns.