Loren In Rowan Alpaca Sparkle - Downloadable PDF

Loren in Rowan Alpaca Sparkle – Knitting Pattern Summary

Loren is an elegant knitwear design by Lisa Richardson, published by Rowan as a downloadable PDF pattern (reference ZB381-00009-EN). The pattern offers knitters two distinct versions of the same garment — a classic sweater and a chic sleeveless top — both worked in the luxurious Rowan Alpaca Sparkle yarn. With a skill level of advanced beginner, Loren is an ideal project for those who have mastered basic knitting and are ready to tackle simple shaping techniques such as armhole and neck decreases.

The Two Designs at a Glance

Loren Sweater Version

The sweater version of Loren is a fitted, shaped pullover featuring set-in sleeves and a neat neckline finished with a neckband. It is photographed in Alpaca Sparkle shade Almond (10020), a warm, softly glowing colourway that showcases the subtle shimmer of the yarn beautifully. The sweater is worked flat in pieces — front, back, and sleeves — and then seamed together. Shaping is introduced at the armholes and shoulders, as well as at the back neck, creating a polished, structured silhouette.

• Garment type: Long-sleeved pullover sweater
• Colourway shown: Almond 10020
• Yarn quantity: 6 to 10 x 50g balls of Rowan Alpaca Sparkle, depending on size

Loren Sleeveless Version

The sleeveless version of Loren is a sleeveless top or shell, retaining the same body shaping as the sweater but omitting the sleeves entirely. It is photographed in Alpaca Sparkle shade Onyx (10025), a deep, dramatic colourway that gives the garment a sophisticated evening-ready feel. Because there are no sleeves to knit, this version requires fewer balls of yarn and works up more quickly, making it a particularly appealing option for knitters who want a faster project or a versatile layering piece.

• Garment type: Sleeveless top / shell
• Colourway shown: Onyx 10025
• Yarn quantity: 3 to 6 x 50g balls of Rowan Alpaca Sparkle, depending on size

Sizing

Both versions of Loren are offered in a generous nine sizes, designed to fit chest measurements ranging from 71–76 cm (28–30 in) up to 152–157 cm (60–62 in). The actual chest measurement of the finished garment ranges from 82 cm to 165.5 cm, incorporating positive ease for a comfortable, relaxed fit. This wide size range makes Loren an inclusive pattern suitable for a broad spectrum of body types.

Yarn: Rowan Alpaca Sparkle

Rowan Alpaca Sparkle is a DK weight yarn sold in 50g balls. As its name suggests, it combines the soft, airy warmth of alpaca fibres with a delicate sparkle or metallic element, giving finished garments a subtle luminous quality that catches the light. The yarn's lightweight, halo-like texture means that Loren drapes beautifully and has a soft, luxurious handle against the skin — ideal for both casual and occasion wear. The DK weight classification means it knits up at a relatively open, relaxed gauge on larger needles, contributing to the garment's fluid, elegant appearance.

Needles Required

• 1 pair 7mm (no 2) (US 10½) straight needles — used for ribbing and edging sections
• 1 pair 9mm (no 00) (US 13) straight needles — used for the main body fabric
• 7mm (no 2) (US 10½) circular needle, at least 60 cm long — used for working the neckband in the round