DownEast

DownEast Sweater by Alicia Plummer

What Is Being Made

The DownEast is a seamless, top-down knitted sweater designed by Alicia Plummer. This intermediate-level pullover features a classic construction worked entirely in the round using circular needles and double-pointed needles. The sweater is available in six size options with finished bust measurements ranging from 31 inches to 49 inches, making it suitable for a variety of body types.

Knitting Techniques Used

This sweater employs several essential knitting techniques that make it ideal for intermediate crafters. The garment is constructed using top-down seamless construction, a method that allows knitters to try on the piece as they work and make adjustments as needed. The sweater is worked entirely in the round, which eliminates the need for seaming and creates a polished, professional finish. The pattern includes chart reading, requiring knitters to follow a visual pattern diagram while working, reading the chart from right to left on every row. Additionally, the pattern incorporates increases using the M1L (make one left) technique to shape the garment appropriately.

Stitches Used

The DownEast sweater features two primary stitch patterns. The main fabric is worked in Stockinette Stitch, which creates a smooth, classic knitted appearance. The design also incorporates an Interrupted Rib Pattern, which alternates between knit and purl stitches (K1, P1) to create textural interest and structure. The rib pattern is worked for 14 to 26 rounds depending on size, adding elasticity and definition to the sweater.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The DownEast is designed to be knitted with Swan's Island Pure Blends Bulky yarn in the Seasmoke colorway. This chunky-weight yarn requires between 780 and 1,430 yards (710 to 1,300 meters) depending on the finished size selected. The pattern calls for US size 11 (8.0 mm) circular needles in 16-inch, 24-inch, and 32-inch lengths, as well as US size 10.5 (6.5 mm) double-pointed needles in 32-inch length for working the smaller circumferences at the neckline and cuffs. A darning needle is needed for weaving in yarn ends upon completion.

Gauge and Finishing Details

To ensure proper fit, knitters should achieve a gauge of 13 stitches and 16 rows in Stockinette Stitch over a 4-inch (10 cm) square using the larger US size 11 needles. The pattern requires 4 place markers to track increases and pattern repeats throughout the construction. The downloadable PDF format provides complete instructions for this intermediate knitting project, making it accessible for crafters with some prior knitting experience who are ready to tackle seamless, in-the-round construction techniques.