Clematis sweater

Clematis Round Neck Sweater by Dorothy Shaw

What is Being Made

The Clematis is a classic round neck pullover sweater designed by Dorothy Shaw. This intermediate-level knitting project creates a fitted, elegant sweater available in four sizes ranging from UK size 10 to 16, with chest measurements from 34 inches (86cm) to 40 inches (101.5cm). The sweater features a traditional construction with ribbed cuffs and a simple, timeless silhouette suitable for everyday wear.

Knitting Techniques Used

This sweater employs fundamental knitting techniques appropriate for intermediate crafters. The construction begins with a thumb method cast-on, establishing the foundation stitches with precision. The garment utilizes flat knitting on single-pointed needles, worked in separate pieces before assembly. Shaping is achieved through standard decreasing methods including knit two together (K2tog) and purl two together (P2tog) reductions. The design incorporates slip stitch decreases (s1, psso) for refined edge finishing. Assembly involves seaming using a tapestry needle to join the front, back, and sleeve pieces together, creating a cohesive garment.

Stitches Used

• K2P2 Rib: A knit 2, purl 2 ribbed pattern creating elastic, textured edges at the cuffs and hem for a snug fit
• Stocking Stitch (St. st.): The primary fabric stitch, alternating knit rows and purl rows to create a smooth, classic sweater fabric
• Knit (K) and Purl (P) stitches: The foundational stitches forming the basis of all pattern work
• Decrease stitches: K2tog (knit two together), P2tog (purl two together), and slip stitch decreases (s1, psso) for shaping the armholes, neckline, and sleeve caps
• Slip stitches: Used in combination with pass slip stitch over (psso) for decorative and functional decreasing

Materials and Specifications

Yarn: Stylecraft Special 4-ply, a lightweight worsted-weight yarn requiring 3 balls for the main color, plus small amounts of 2 contrasting colors for accent details. The 4-ply weight creates a refined, drapable fabric suitable for a fitted sweater.

Needles: The pattern requires two pairs of single-pointed needles. Smaller 2.75mm needles (UK size 12), at least 20cm long, are used for the ribbed sections to maintain elasticity. Larger 3.25mm needles (UK size 10), at least 30cm long, are used for the main stocking stitch body to achieve the correct fabric gauge.

Accessories: A safety pin serves as a stitch marker for tracking pattern progress, while a stitch holder temporarily secures stitches during construction. A tapestry needle facilitates seaming the finished pieces together.

Tension: The pattern is worked to a tension of 26 stitches and 31 rows over 10 centimeters using the 3.25mm needles in stocking stitch. Achieving correct tension is essential for proper garment fit and is measured on the main fabric rather than the ribbed sections.