September Storms

September Storms by Christina Loman

What is Being Made

September Storms is a top-down raglan sweater designed for fall weather. This knitted garment features bold color blocking and is constructed using a classic raglan sleeve construction method, starting from the neckline and working downward. The sweater is available in seven sizes ranging from XS to 3X, with finished chest measurements from 29.5 inches to 53.5 inches and lengths from 23.25 to 26.25 inches. The design combines lightweight merino wool in jet black as the main color with a contrasting accent color, creating a striking visual impact perfect for crisp autumn days.

Knitting Techniques

This intermediate-level knitting project employs several key techniques that make it suitable for knitters with some experience. The top-down raglan construction method begins at the neckline and increases stitches strategically along raglan lines as you work toward the body and sleeves. This approach allows for easy fitting adjustments and the ability to try on the garment as you progress. The pattern uses circular needles for working in the round, which is a fundamental technique for seamless garment construction. The sleek simplicity of the design emphasizes clean lines and straightforward shaping, making it an excellent project for practicing fundamental sweater construction skills.

Stitches Used

The primary stitch used throughout September Storms is stockinette stitch, which creates the smooth, classic fabric visible in the finished garment. Stockinette stitch is achieved by knitting all stitches on right-side rows and purling all stitches on wrong-side rows when working flat, or by knitting every round when working in the round. This fundamental stitch is worked at a gauge of 22 stitches and 32 rows over 4 inches, which is essential information for achieving the correct finished measurements. The straightforward stitch pattern allows the bold color blocking to be the focal point of the design.

Materials and Tools

September Storms requires two distinct yarns to achieve its striking color-blocked effect. The main color [MC] Crystal Palace Yarns Mini Solid in color 1198 Jet Black is a lightweight wool blend containing 80% merino and 20% nylon, providing durability and a smooth finish. This yarn provides 195 yards per 50-gram skein, with yardage requirements ranging from 3 skeins for smaller sizes to 5 skeins for the largest sizes. The contrast color [CC] Zitron Unisono in color 1220 is 100% merino wool, offering 328 yards per 100-gram skein. Only 1 to 3 skeins of the contrast color are needed depending on size, allowing for creative color experimentation while keeping yardage minimal.

For needles, the pattern calls for 1 32-inch US #4/3.5mm circular needle for the main construction, with the optional addition of 1 set US #4/3.5mm double-pointed needles (DPNs) for working the sleeves in the round if preferred. Additional notions include a yarn needle for weaving in ends and stitch markers for tracking raglan increases and pattern sections. The lightweight merino blend provides just enough warmth for fall weather without excess bulk, making this sweater versatile for layering or wearing alone on moderately cool days.

Design Summary

September Storms is an ideal intermediate knitting project that combines accessible construction techniques with bold, modern styling. The top-down raglan method makes this sweater forgiving and adjustable, while the clean stockinette stitch background showcases the color blocking. Whether worn for a night out on the town or an afternoon in the park, this design offers the perfect balance of style and functionality for the transitional fall season.