Donegal Pullover

Donegal Pullover by Teti's Knit Garden

What is Being Made

The Donegal Pullover is an unisex raglan pullover sweater designed for knitters of all skill levels. This pattern features a simple construction with a wide standing mock neck, making it an ideal first pullover project. The sweater is worked top down in the round, allowing for a seamless construction and easy fitting adjustments throughout the knitting process.

Sizing and Fit

The pattern is available in nine generous sizes, ranging from size 1 to size 9, with bust circumferences from 74 cm (29 inches) to 154 cm (61 inches). Sizes 1 through 5 include approximately 8 cm (3 inches) of positive ease, while the larger sizes 6 through 9 feature approximately 12 cm (4.7 inches) of positive ease for a comfortable, relaxed fit.

Construction Techniques

The Donegal Pullover employs several key knitting techniques that keep this project beginner-friendly:

• Top-down construction: The sweater is worked from the neck downward in continuous rounds, eliminating the need for seaming
• Raglan shaping: Gradual increases are worked along the raglan lines to create the armhole and sleeve cap shaping
• Short rows: A few strategic short rows are incorporated to shape the neckline and improve the fit around the shoulders
• Mock neck: A wide standing mock neck provides a classic, comfortable neckline finish

Stitches Used

While specific stitch details are referenced in the pattern instructions, the Donegal Pullover utilizes fundamental knitting stitches appropriate for a beginner-level project. The pattern provides stitch counts in brackets for each size to guide knitters through the increases and shaping required for the raglan construction.

Yarn and Materials

The Donegal Pullover is designed to be worked in Aran Tweed by Donegal Yarns, a 100% wool yarn in the Aran and heavy worsted weight category. Yarn requirements vary by size, ranging from 380 grams (approximately 1,340 yards) for size 1 to 780 grams (approximately 2,740 yards) for size 9. Knitters will need circular needles appropriate for Aran weight yarn to accommodate the top-down, in-the-round construction method.

Difficulty Level

Rated as a beginner pattern, the Donegal Pullover is specifically designed to be accessible to new knitters attempting their first pullover project. The straightforward raglan construction, combined with the top-down method that allows for easy try-ons and adjustments, makes this an excellent introduction to garment knitting.

Pattern copyright belongs to Teti Lutsak and Nutsknitwear. This pattern is for private use only.