Sweater with Side Hip Lacing

Sweater with Side Hip Lacing by Pat Menchini

What is Being Made

This is a knitted sweater featuring a distinctive side hip lacing detail. The design is available in six size options, ranging from bust measurements of 81-86 cm (32-34 inches) through to 129-134 cm (51-53 inches), with actual finished bust measurements from 91 cm to 137 cm. The sweater offers a classic pullover silhouette with set-in sleeves and a length from shoulder ranging from 58 to 63 cm depending on size. The signature element is the lacing detail at the side hip area, which adds both visual interest and a customizable fit feature to the garment.

Knitting Techniques Used

This intermediate-level knitting project employs several key techniques to create its finished design. The pattern uses stitch pattern work throughout the body and sleeves, requiring attention to tension and pattern repeats. The construction involves working separate pieces—front, back, and sleeves—which are then joined together. Set-in sleeves are incorporated, requiring shaping at the armholes and sleeve caps. The side hip lacing detail is created using a crochet hook, indicating that the pattern combines both knitting and crochet techniques. Stitch holders are used during construction to hold stitches temporarily, a common technique when working garment pieces that will later be joined or when creating openings for features like the lacing.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The pattern is worked over a stitch pattern, though the specific stitch abbreviations are not fully detailed in the provided content. The tension is given as 26 stitches and 36 rows to 10 cm (4 inches) over pattern using 4 mm needles, indicating a structured stitch pattern rather than stockinette stitch alone. The crochet hook work for the lacing detail would typically employ basic crochet stitches to create the decorative and functional lacing element at the side hip.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The sweater is designed to be knitted using Rico-Design Essentials Merino DK, a 100% wool yarn in DK (double knitting) weight. Each 50g ball provides 120 metres or 131 yards of yarn. The shade used in the pattern is Dark Green. Yarn requirements vary by size, ranging from 11 to 14 balls of 50g (550 to 700 grams total), with the exact yardage depending on the chosen size.

Needles and Tools Required

• One pair of 3.25 mm (UK 10, US 3) knitting needles
• One pair of 3.75 mm (UK 9, US 5) knitting needles
• One pair of 4 mm (UK 8, US 6) knitting needles
• One 4 mm (UK 8, US 6) crochet hook for the lacing detail
• Two stitch holders for holding stitches during construction

The pattern uses multiple needle sizes, with the 4 mm needles being the primary size for working the main fabric at the specified tension. The smaller needle sizes are typically used for ribbing or edgings to create a more elastic finish.

Difficulty Level

This pattern is rated as intermediate difficulty, making it suitable for knitters with some experience. The combination of stitch pattern work, garment shaping, set-in sleeves, and the addition of crochet lacing requires competency in multiple techniques and the ability to follow a detailed pattern with various shaping instructions across multiple sizes.

Design Notes

The side hip lacing feature is a notable design element that adds both aesthetic appeal and practical functionality to the sweater. This detail allows for adjustable fit at the hip area, making the garment adaptable to different body shapes. The use of merino wool in DK weight provides a lightweight yet warm fabric suitable for layering or wearing as a standalone piece across seasons.