Birch

Birch Sweater by Marie Wallin

What is Being Made

Birch is a knitted sweater from the Wildwood collection, designed by Marie Wallin. This pullover-style jumper is available in five sizes ranging from Small (to fit bust 81-86 cm / 32-34 in) through to XXL (to fit bust 122-127 cm / 48-50 in). The design features a sophisticated color-work pattern incorporating multiple yarn shades from the British Breeds yarn range.

Yarn and Materials

This project uses 4-ply weight yarn in eight coordinating colors from the British Breeds collection. The primary color is Eau de Nil, with accent colors including Woad, Mulberry, Wood, Lime Flower, Dark Apple, Chestnut, and Raw. Each size requires varying quantities of the main color (ranging from 12 to 20 balls of 25gm) plus single balls of each accent color.

Needles and Tools

The pattern requires circular needles in three sizes: 2¼mm (US 1), 2¾mm (US 2), and 3¼mm (US 3). Additionally, sets of four double-pointed needles in each of these same sizes are needed for working smaller circumferences, such as the neckline and cuffs. Circular needles allow for seamless knitting in the round, which is the primary construction method for this garment.

Knitting Techniques

Birch is knitted as one piece to the armholes, a construction method that minimizes seaming and creates a smooth, professional finish. The sweater employs both plain stockinette stitch and patterned color-work techniques. The body is worked flat or in the round using the larger needles, while ribbed edgings and fitted areas utilize the smaller needle sizes to create elasticity and structure.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The primary stitch used throughout is stockinette stitch (knit on right-side rows, purl on wrong-side rows when working flat, or knit every round when working circularly). The pattern incorporates color-work elements that create visual interest across the garment. Ribbed knit sections, typically worked in knit one, purl one (1x1 rib) or similar variations, are used at cuffs, hem, and neckline to provide structure and a fitted finish.

Tension and Sizing

Achieving correct tension is essential for this project. When working plain stockinette stitch using 2¾mm (US 2) needles, the gauge should measure 28 stitches and 36 rounds over 10 cm. For the patterned color-work sections worked on 3¼mm (US 3) needles, the gauge is 28 stitches and 29 rounds over 10 cm. Accurate gauge ensures the finished sweater fits as intended across all five available sizes.

Difficulty Level

This pattern is rated as intermediate difficulty. Knitters should be comfortable with circular needle techniques, color-work patterns, and gauge adjustment before beginning this project. The seamless construction and multi-color design elements require attention to detail and familiarity with reading pattern charts.