Flying Fox

Flying Fox Sweater by Teresa Gregorio

What is Being Made

The Flying Fox is an intermediate-level knitted sweater designed for approximately a 36" bust and 27" waist. This downloadable PDF pattern from independent designer Teresa Gregorio (published via CanarySanctuary/canaryknits.blogspot.com) provides instructions for creating a classic pullover sweater using modern knitting techniques that combine circular and flat construction methods.

Construction Technique and Method

The Flying Fox employs a hybrid knitting approach that begins in the round and transitions to flat (back-and-forth) knitting. The garment starts with a circular cast-on at the waistband, then progresses upward with strategic increases that shape the body. After the ribbed waistband section, the pattern introduces a transition row that converts the circular knitting to flat construction, allowing the front and back pieces to be worked separately. This technique provides shaping control while maintaining the efficiency of circular knitting for the initial waistband.

Stitches and Stitch Details

• 2x2 Ribbing: The foundation stitch used for the waistband, worked for 11 inches to create an elastic, fitted edge that helps the sweater stay in place
• Stockinette Stitch: The primary fabric stitch used throughout the body of the sweater, created by alternating knit rows (right side) and purl rows (wrong side)
• Increase Stitches: Strategic increases worked into stitches at specific intervals to shape the sweater body and create the proper fit across the bust and torso

Yarn and Materials

The Flying Fox pattern calls for Elsebeth Lavold Silky Tweed yarn, with approximately 5 skeins required to complete the sweater. This yarn choice provides a refined texture suitable for an intermediate project. The pattern specifies 4mm circular needles sized appropriately for the 36" bust measurement, with a gauge of 22 stitches over 4 inches on 4mm needles. Knitters should verify their personal gauge before beginning to ensure proper fit and finished measurements.

Pattern Specifications

The sweater begins with a cast-on of 108 stitches worked in the round with 2x2 ribbing maintained for 11 inches at the waistband. The increase row introduces shaping that expands the front to 95 stitches while the back is worked separately. Additional stitches are cast on for the front armhole shaping, establishing the structure for the upper body and sleeve cap areas. This systematic approach to increases and cast-ons creates the necessary shaping for a well-fitted sweater silhouette.