Pamplemousse

Pamplemousse Knit Sweater by Thea Colman

What Is Being Made

Pamplemousse is an intermediate-level knit sweater pattern designed by Thea Colman for BabyCocktails. This downloadable PDF pattern offers eight size options ranging from 36 inches to 62.5 inches in finished bust circumference, accommodating a wide range of body measurements. The sweater is designed to be worn with 6 inches of positive ease, allowing for comfortable, relaxed fit over the body. The pattern includes detailed schematic measurements and sizing guidance to help knitters select the appropriate size based on preferred fit and fabric drape.

Techniques Used

The Pamplemousse sweater employs several key knitting techniques suitable for intermediate-level crafters. The garment is constructed in the round using circular needles, which allows for seamless construction on the body and sleeves. The pattern utilizes garter stitch as the primary stitch pattern, creating a textured, reversible fabric with excellent drape and visual interest. Garter 3/slip 1 rib is incorporated into the design, adding structural definition and elasticity to specific sections. Cable knitting techniques are referenced in the notions list, indicating decorative cable elements are featured in the design. The pattern recommends using a long circular needle for the body and a shorter circular needle for smaller circumferences, such as the collar and sleeves, demonstrating proper tool selection for different sections of the garment.

Stitches Used

• Garter stitch: The primary stitch pattern, worked flat or in the round to create horizontal ridges and texture
• Garter 3/slip 1 rib: A variation combining garter stitch elements with slip stitches for ribbed texture and elasticity
• Cable stitches: Decorative cable work incorporated throughout the design, requiring a cable needle to cross stitches

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The Pamplemousse pattern calls for Bleu Poussiere Taiga yarn, a premium yarn composed of 100% Dorset wool sourced from Quebec. Each skein contains 240 yards (220 meters) and weighs 113 grams (4 ounces), classifying this yarn as aran or heavy worsted weight. Yardage requirements vary by size, ranging from 1100 yards (1005 meters) for the smallest size up to 1900 yards (1740 meters) for the largest size. Knitters should verify the exact yardage needed for their chosen size before purchasing yarn.

Needles and Gauge

The pattern specifies US #8 (5mm) needles or the size necessary to achieve the correct gauge. Gauge is critical for proper fit and is provided for two stitch patterns: 16 stitches and 24 rows per 4 inches (10 centimeters) in garter stitch, and 20 stitches and 26 rows per 4 inches (10 centimeters) in garter 3/slip 1 rib. The pattern recommends using a long circular needle for the body to accommodate the larger circumference, and suggests considering a larger needle size for sleeve sections if preferred. A shorter circular needle is recommended for the collar and other small circumferences. Proper gauge swatching before beginning the project ensures the finished sweater will meet the intended measurements.

Additional Notions

Beyond needles and yarn, the Pamplemousse pattern requires a cable needle for cable stitch work, stitch markers to track pattern repeats and shaping, removable stitch markers for noting specific rows or sections, a darning needle for weaving in ends and seaming if needed, and waste yarn or stitch holders to secure stitches during construction.