Yukon

Yukon Knitted Sweater by Verena Cohrs

What is Being Made

Yukon is a knitted sweater design by independent designer Verena Cohrs, available as a downloadable PDF pattern. The design offers 12 size options across kids and adult ranges, with finished chest circumferences ranging from 66.25 cm (26") for the smallest kids' size to 142.5 cm (56") for the largest adult size. The pattern is designed to be worn with positive ease, ranging from 0–10 cm depending on the chosen size, allowing for comfortable layering and movement.

Knitting Techniques and Construction

This intermediate-level knitting project uses circular needles to construct the sweater in the round, a technique that minimizes seaming and creates seamless garments. The pattern employs a two-needle system: a primary 5 mm / US 8 circular needle with a cable length of at least 80 cm (32") for the main fabric, and a smaller 4.5 mm / US 7 circular needle for ribbed sections such as cuffs and waistbands. This needle-size contrast creates definition and elasticity in ribbed areas while maintaining consistent gauge in the body of the sweater.

Stitches and Stitch Work

The pattern incorporates ribbed knit and purl stitches for fitted edges and cuffs, which provide structure and prevent rolling. The use of circular needles allows for continuous knitting in the round, eliminating the need for side seams and creating a smooth, professional finish. Stitch markers are used throughout to track pattern repeats and shaping increases or decreases.

Yarn and Materials

Yarn: The pattern calls for De Rerum Natura Cyrano in aran weight. This yarn is composed of 100% Merino wool, offering softness, breathability, and natural temperature regulation. Each 100 g skein provides 150 metres (164 yards) of yardage, making it suitable for the aran weight category—a medium-weight yarn ideal for sweaters that knit at a moderate gauge.

Needles and Notions: Knitters will need 5 mm / US 8 and 4.5 mm / US 7 circular needles, each with a cable length of at least 80 cm (32"). Additional supplies include a darning needle for weaving in ends, scrap yarn or a stitch holder for holding stitches temporarily, stitch markers to track pattern sections, a tape measure for checking gauge and finished measurements, and optional blocking tools to finish the sweater to its final dimensions and shape.

Difficulty Level

Yukon is rated as an intermediate knitting project, suitable for knitters with foundational skills in circular needle techniques, gauge management, and basic shaping methods. The pattern assumes familiarity with reading knitting instructions and working with stitch markers and multiple needle sizes.