Territory

Territory Pullover by Laura Chau

What Is Being Made

Territory is a cozy, stylish pullover sweater designed by Laura Chau featuring a beautiful slip-stitch colorwork pattern on the body. This intermediate-level knitting project creates a classic pullover silhouette with long set-in sleeves and a ribbed collar. The sweater is designed to be worn with negative 1 to 2 inches (negative 2.5 to 5 centimeters) of ease at the bust for a fitted, contemporary fit. The finished bust measurements range from 30.25 inches (76 centimeters) to 55.5 inches (139.7 centimeters), offering multiple size options for different body types.

Techniques Used

Territory employs several key knitting techniques to create its finished design. The sweater is constructed using the flat knitting method, with all pieces worked flat from the bottom up rather than in the round. After the individual pieces are completed, they are seamed together using a joining technique before the ribbed collar is added to finish the neckline. The slip-stitch colorwork pattern is strategically used to create visual interest while remaining accessible to intermediate knitters. The Frieze pattern that decorates the body is echoed on the cuffs of the sleeves, creating a cohesive design element throughout the garment.

Stitches Used

The primary stitch structure in Territory is Stockinette stitch, which creates the smooth, classic fabric base for the sweater. The long set-in sleeves are worked entirely in Stockinette stitch, providing a simple, elegant contrast to the patterned body section. The colorwork is achieved through slip-stitch technique, which allows the knitter to work with only one color at a time despite the complex appearance of the finished pattern. This approach makes the colorwork more manageable than traditional stranded colorwork methods. The Frieze pattern is the featured stitch pattern, appearing on both the body and the cuffs. The sweater is finished with ribbed knit at the collar to create a fitted, stretchy neckline.

Materials and Specifications

Territory is designed to be knitted with sport weight yarn, a lightweight yarn that creates a drapey, comfortable fabric suitable for a cozy pullover. The pattern is shown in Cascade 220 Sport, which is composed of 100 percent Peruvian Highland Wool. This yarn provides 164 yards (150 meters) per 1.75 ounces (50 grams) per skein. The pattern was photographed in the size 41 inches (103 centimeters) with zero ease. Knitters will need appropriate needles for sport weight yarn, though specific needle sizes should be referenced in the complete pattern documentation. The use of hot pink as a contrast color on the back of the sweater provides an unexpected, modern update to this classically styled garment, while the primary color choice remains flexible for individual preference.