Angelica

Angelica Knitted Sweater by Marie Wallin

What Is Being Made

Angelica is a knitted sweater from the Bloomsbury collection, designed by Marie Wallin. This intermediate-level pullover is available in five sizes to fit bust measurements from 81–127 cm (32–50 inches), making it suitable for a range of body types. The sweater is knitted in one piece to the armholes, creating a seamless construction method that reduces finishing work and ensures consistent fit.

Craft and Primary Technique

This project uses knitting as its primary craft. The sweater employs circular knitting techniques, worked primarily in the round using circular needles. The body is constructed as a single continuous piece from the cast-on edge up to the armhole shaping, which is an efficient method for creating fitted garments with minimal seaming. Double-pointed needles are also required for smaller circumference sections, such as the neckline or cuff areas.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The pattern incorporates two distinct stitch techniques. The base construction uses stockinette stitch (plain st st), which creates a smooth, classic fabric. Additionally, the design features patterned stockinette stitch, which introduces texture or colorwork detail while maintaining the fundamental stockinette structure. The tension requirements differ between these two stitch types, reflecting the density changes that occur when pattern elements are introduced.

Tension and Gauge

• Plain stockinette stitch: 28 stitches and 36 rounds to 10 cm using 3mm (US 2/3) needles
• Patterned stockinette stitch: 28 stitches and 29 rounds to 10 cm using 3¼mm (US 3) needles

Achieving the correct tension is essential for proper fit and drape. The difference in gauge between plain and patterned sections indicates that the pattern motif creates a denser fabric, requiring a slightly larger needle size to maintain consistent garment proportions.

Materials: Yarn and Needles

Yarn: The pattern calls for Rowan Felted Tweed, a DK weight yarn. Two colorways are used:

• Color A: Stone (Rowan shade 190) – the primary color, requiring 190–270 grams depending on size (6–9 x 50gm balls)
• Color B: Ancient (Rowan shade 172) – a secondary color for contrast or patterning, requiring 100–150 grams depending on size (2–3 x 50gm balls)

Needles: The project requires multiple needle sizes to accommodate different stitch densities and circumferences:

• 2¾mm (UK size 12 / US size 2) circular needle
• 3mm (UK size 11 / US size 2/3) circular needle
• 3¼mm (UK size 10 / US size 3) circular needle
• Set of 4 double-pointed 2¾mm (UK size 12 / US size 2) needles
• Set of 4 double-pointed 3mm (UK size 11 / US size 2/3) needles
• Set of 4 double-pointed 3¼mm (UK size 10 / US size 3) needles

The progression from smaller to larger needle sizes allows the knitter to work different sections of the garment at appropriate gauges, ensuring that ribbed edges remain elastic while patterned areas maintain their intended appearance.

Difficulty Level

Angelica is rated as an intermediate project. Knitters should be comfortable with circular needle techniques, gauge adjustment, and working with multiple yarn colors or pattern repeats. The one-piece construction and use of double-pointed needles for smaller sections require confidence in managing stitches across different needle types.