Stourhead

Stourhead Knitted Sweater by Pat Menchini

What is Being Made

Stourhead is a knitted sweater designed by Pat Menchini, available as a downloadable PDF pattern. This intermediate-level project creates a classic pullover sweater with cable detailing, offered in six size options to fit chest measurements from 81-86 cm (32-34 inches) up to 132-137 cm (52-54 inches). The finished garment features an actual chest width ranging from 94 cm (37 inches) in the smallest size to 144 cm (56¾ inches) in the largest size, with sleeve lengths between 46-48 cm (18-19 inches) and shoulder lengths of 65-69 cm (25½-27 inches).

Knitting Techniques and Construction

This sweater employs traditional knitting construction methods suitable for intermediate crafters. The pattern utilizes cable work as a primary design element, requiring the use of a cable needle to create the textured, twisted stitches characteristic of cable knit sweaters. The garment is worked primarily in stockinette stitch, which provides a smooth, classic fabric base that showcases the cable pattern details. Light pressing is recommended after completion to set the stitches and achieve the intended finished dimensions and drape.

Stitches Used

• Stockinette Stitch (st st) – The primary stitch throughout the body and sleeves, creating a smooth, V-textured fabric
• Cable Stitches – Twisted stitch patterns created using a cable needle to add visual interest and texture to the design

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The Stourhead pattern calls for WYS The Croft Shetland Tweed, a premium yarn composed of 100% Shetland Islands Wool. This aran-weight yarn provides 166 meters (182 yards) per 100-gram skein. The shade specified in the pattern is Mossbank 757. Yarn quantities are approximate and vary by size: 7 skeins for the smallest sizes (81-86 cm chest), increasing to 10 skeins for the largest sizes (122-127 cm and 132-137 cm chest).

Needles and Tools

• One pair of 4 mm (UK 8, US 6) knitting needles
• One pair of 5 mm (UK 6, US 8) knitting needles – used for the main fabric
• One cable needle – essential for creating the cable stitch patterns

Tension and Gauge

Achieving correct tension is critical for this project. The pattern specifies 18 stitches and 24 rows to 10 cm (4 inches) over stockinette stitch on 5 mm needles. The cable pattern requires 25 stitches and 24 rows to 10 cm (4 inches) on 5 mm needles after light pressing. Knitters should swatch and measure carefully before beginning, as tension directly affects the final garment measurements and fit. If substituting yarn, matching the stated tension is essential to ensure the sweater fits as intended.

Difficulty Level

Stourhead is rated as an intermediate knitting project, making it suitable for knitters with foundational skills who are ready to tackle cable work and garment construction. The pattern assumes familiarity with basic knitting techniques, shaping methods, and the ability to read and follow cable charts or written cable instructions.