Emsworth

Emsworth Slipover by Isabell Kraemer

What is Being Made

Emsworth is a handknit slipover design created by independent designer Isabell Kraemer. This garment is a sleeveless pullover-style piece that offers versatile layering options for various seasons and occasions. The slipover construction makes it an excellent project for knitters looking to create a classic, timeless wardrobe staple.

Yarn and Materials

This pattern calls for approximately 684 to 1,300 yards of yarn, depending on the size selected, making it suitable for multiple garment sizes. The recommended yarn is Mominoki German Merino Light or any comparable heavy fingering weight to sport weight yarn that achieves the correct gauge and provides good stitch definition. The pattern sample is shown in the color Nutmeg. Sport weight yarn is ideal for creating garments with refined drape and excellent stitch clarity, allowing intricate stitch patterns to display beautifully.

Needles and Tools

US 2½ circular needles are specified for this project. Circular needles allow for seamless construction and the flexibility to work both flat and in the round, depending on the pattern's requirements. The cable cast-on method is used to begin this project, which creates a neat, structured edge suitable for garments.

Techniques and Stitches

Emsworth incorporates several intermediate-level knitting techniques that add visual interest and texture to the finished garment:

• Double Stitch (DS) Resolution: The pattern includes instructions for resolving double stitches, a technique where knitters treat double stitches as single stitches. On right-side rows, this is accomplished by knitting through both legs of the double stitch (kDS), while on wrong-side rows, the knitter purls through both legs (pDS). This technique is essential for maintaining stitch consistency and pattern integrity throughout the project.
• Cable Cast-On: The pattern uses a cable cast-on method to create a sturdy, professional-looking foundation edge that provides structure and elasticity to the garment opening.
• Circular Knitting: The use of circular needles indicates construction that may involve working in the round, a technique that creates seamless garments and reduces finishing work.

Difficulty Level

Rated as intermediate, Emsworth is designed for knitters with foundational skills who are ready to tackle stitch techniques beyond basic knit and purl. The inclusion of double stitch resolution and the overall construction method make this an engaging project that builds knitting competency while producing a wearable, professional-quality garment.