Sunbleached Sweater

Sunbleached Sweater by Ashleigh Kiser

What Is Being Made

The Sunbleached Sweater is a lightweight, drapey knitted pullover designed for warm weather wear. This beginner-friendly pattern creates a summery garment with an oversized, relaxed fit available in seven sizes ranging from XS to 3XL. The sweater features a simple construction ideal for knitters new to garment-making.

Knitting Techniques and Construction

This pattern employs straightforward knitting techniques that make it accessible to beginners. The primary construction method uses circular knitting needles, which allows for seamless or nearly seamless garment assembly. The design minimizes complex shaping, making it an excellent project for developing fundamental knitting skills while producing a wearable, fashionable result.

Stitches Used

• Garter Stitch: The main stitch throughout the sweater body, created by knitting every row. Garter stitch produces a textured, reversible fabric with excellent drape and is one of the most fundamental knitting stitches.
• 1x1 Ribbing: Used for finishing edges and cuffs, this alternating knit and purl pattern creates elasticity and helps edges maintain their shape.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The Sunbleached Sweater pattern calls for Lion Brand Collection Cotton Jeans Yarn in the colorway Sunbleached. This yarn is a DK to sport weight yarn (Weight 3/Light), with each ball containing 3.5 ounces (100 grams) and 218 yards (200 meters) of yardage. Yardage requirements vary by size, ranging from 4 balls for the smallest size (XS) to 7 balls for the largest sizes (XL, 2XL, and 3XL).

Needles and Tools

• Size 6/4mm circular knitting needles with 16-inch and 20-inch cord lengths for ribbing and initial cast-on
• Size 7/4.5mm circular knitting needles with 20-inch cord length for the main garter stitch body
• Tapestry needle for weaving in ends and seaming if needed
• Measuring tape and scissors for finishing

Gauge and Finished Measurements

The pattern specifies a gauge of 18 stitches by 20 rows over 4 inches in garter stitch after blocking. Accurate gauge is essential for achieving proper fit. Finished bust measurements range from 32 inches (XS) to 56 inches (3XL), with sweater lengths between 21 and 24.5 inches depending on size. Armhole depth ranges from 6.5 inches to 9.5 inches, and sleeve length varies from 16 to 17.5 inches across the size range.

Difficulty Level

Rated as a beginner-level project (skill level 2/easy), the Sunbleached Sweater is designed for knitters with basic knowledge of casting on, knitting, purling, and binding off. The simple stitch combination and straightforward shaping make this an ideal first sweater project.