Heather (Rosslyng) Sweater

Heather (Rosslyng) Sweater by Ann Iverson

What is Being Made

The Heather (Rosslyng) Sweater is a knitted pullover sweater designed by Ann Iverson for Vibrant Viking. This intermediate-level project creates a fitted sweater available in eight different sizes, ranging from petite (chest circumference 30") to generous (chest circumference 61"). The design is inspired by purple heather, one of the two national flowers of Norway, reflected in the colorway choice.

Knitting Techniques

This sweater employs fundamental knitting construction techniques suitable for intermediate crafters. The pattern uses a two-needle approach with different gauges for distinct sections: smaller needles create the ribbed edging while larger needles work the main body. The sweater features set-in sleeves with tapered arm shaping, including separate measurements at the body and elbow to create a fitted silhouette. Sleeve length varies by size to accommodate different proportions, ranging from 6.25" to 8.25" depending on the chosen size.

Stitches and Stitch Work

The pattern incorporates ribbing as a foundational stitch technique, used for the neckline, cuffs, and hem to create elasticity and a finished appearance. The body of the sweater is worked in stockinette stitch, the fundamental knit stitch that creates the smooth, classic sweater fabric. Shaping is achieved through strategic increases and decreases to form the armholes, sleeve cap, and waist shaping across the eight size options.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The Heather (Rosslyng) Sweater is designed to be knitted with The Plucky Knitter Trusty Fingering yarn, a fingering weight yarn composed of 100% superwash merino wool. Each skein provides 375 yards (343 meters) of yardage. The recommended colorway is Pinky Swear, a heather shade. Yardage requirements vary by size: the smallest size requires 800 yards (732 meters), while the largest size calls for 1500 yards (1372 meters).

Needles and Tools

The pattern requires two needle sizes to achieve proper gauge and construction:

• Size US 3 (3.25mm) needles for ribbing sections
• Size US 5 (3.75mm) needles for the main body

Finished Measurements Overview

The sweater is graded across eight sizes with the following key measurements:

• Neck circumference: ranges from 17.5" to 24.7"
• Chest circumference: ranges from 30" to 61"
• Arm circumference at body: ranges from 10.5" to 22"
• Arm circumference at elbow: ranges from 10" to 19"
• Sleeve length: ranges from 6.25" to 8.25"

This comprehensive sizing range makes the Heather (Rosslyng) Sweater accessible to knitters seeking a classic, well-fitted pullover in fingering weight yarn with intermediate-level construction techniques.