Willow Creek

Willow Creek Knit Pullover by Justyna Lorkowska

What Is Being Made

Willow Creek is a knitted pullover sweater designed by independent designer Justyna Lorkowska. This downloadable PDF pattern provides instructions for creating a classic crew-neck pullover available in six sizes ranging from XS to XXL, with finished chest measurements from 80 cm (32 inches) to 125 cm (50 inches). The sweater is designed to be worn with approximately 2.5 cm (1 inch) of positive ease for a comfortable, relaxed fit. The sample shown in the pattern is knitted in size M on a 93 cm (37 inch) bust.

Knitting Techniques and Construction

Willow Creek is constructed using circular knitting techniques, worked in the round to create a seamless garment. The pattern employs a multi-needle approach with several needle sizes to achieve proper gauge and shaping throughout the sweater. The construction method involves working the body and sleeves using circular needles of varying lengths, with double-pointed needles (dpns) used for smaller circumference sections. The pattern includes a cast-on edge and bind-off techniques, with a larger needle size (6.0 mm / US #10) reserved specifically for the bind-off to ensure a stretchy, comfortable neckline and cuff edges.

Stitches and Stitch Details

The primary stitch used throughout Willow Creek is stockinette stitch (St st), which creates the classic smooth, V-textured fabric characteristic of traditional knit sweaters. Stockinette stitch is worked in the round, meaning knit stitches are worked on every round to achieve the proper appearance and drape. This fundamental stitch choice makes Willow Creek an excellent project for beginner knitters, as stockinette stitch is one of the most essential and straightforward stitches in knitting.

Materials: Yarn and Needles

Yarn Requirements: Willow Creek calls for Western Sky Knits Willow Worsted yarn in a worsted weight. The yardage required varies by size: 4 skeins for sizes XS, S, and M; 5 skeins for size L; and 6 skeins for sizes XL and XXL. Each skein contains 116 grams and 210 yards of yarn. The fiber content is 100% superwash merino wool, which provides durability, breathability, and easy care through machine washing. The sample garment shown in the pattern is knitted in the Velvet colorway of Western Sky Knits Willow Worsted.

Needle Requirements: The pattern specifies a graduated needle system using circular needles and double-pointed needles in five different sizes to achieve proper gauge and construction:

• 5.5 mm / US #9 circular needle (80 cm / 32" long) and dpns for main body knitting
• 5.0 mm / US #8 circular needle (40 cm / 16" long) or dpns for ribbed sections
• 4.5 mm / US #7 circular needle (40 cm / 16" long) or dpns for finer ribbing
• 4.0 mm / US #6 circular needle (80 cm / 32" long) and dpns for detailed shaping
• 6.0 mm / US #10 circular needle or dpn used exclusively for bind-off

Gauge and Finishing Details

The pattern specifies a gauge of 16 stitches and 22 rows over 10 cm (4 inches) in stockinette stitch worked in the round using the 5.5 mm / US #9 needle. Achieving proper gauge is essential for this project, as it directly affects the finished measurements and fit of the sweater. The pattern emphasizes the importance of gauge checking before beginning the project.

Additional materials and tools required include stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats and shaping points, a tapestry needle for weaving in yarn ends, and stitch holders or scrap yarn for securing stitches during construction.