Heartbeat Pullover

Heartbeat Pullover by Therese Chynoweth

What is Being Made

The Heartbeat Pullover is a long sleeve raglan pullover sweater designed by Therese Chynoweth as an intermediate-level knitting project. This garment features a standard fitting silhouette and is available in seven sizes ranging from XS to 3XL, with finished bust measurements from 31½ inches (80 cm) to 55 inches (139.5 cm) and lengths from 23¼ inches (59 cm) to 27¾ inches (70.5 cm). The pullover is shown in size Medium and is designed to be worn with 2–4 inches (5–10 cm) of positive ease for comfortable wear.

Techniques and Construction

This knitting project uses raglan construction, a classic sweater-building technique where the sleeves are increased gradually from the neckline down to the armholes, creating diagonal raglan lines from the neck to the underarms. The raglan method is popular for achieving a comfortable, well-proportioned fit and allows for straightforward shaping throughout the body and sleeves. The design is worked as a pullover style, meaning it is pulled over the head rather than buttoned or zippered.

Stitches and Pattern Details

While specific stitch patterns are not detailed in the provided pattern information, the Heartbeat Pullover is constructed using fundamental knitting stitches appropriate for an intermediate skill level. The pattern includes written instructions scaled for all seven sizes, with the smallest size (XS) given as the base measurement and larger sizes provided in parentheses throughout. Where only one number appears in the instructions, that specification applies uniformly across all sizes.

Yarn and Materials

The Heartbeat Pullover is designed to be knitted with DK weight yarn (also classified as Light #3 weight), a versatile yarn weight suitable for creating garments with good drape and definition. The pattern requires between 813 yards (743 meters) for the smallest size and 1514 yards (1384 meters) for the largest size. The design is shown in Knit Circus Driftless DK, a premium blend yarn composed of 80% Rambouillet and Targhee wool with 20% alpaca, available in small cakes of 115 yards (105 meters) or large cakes of 230 yards (210 m). For the Medium size shown, 9 small cakes or 5 large cakes are required in the Wildcat Mountain colorway. This yarn is sold by length rather than weight, allowing knitters to purchase the exact yardage needed for their chosen size.

Skill Level and Sizing

Rated as an intermediate difficulty project, the Heartbeat Pullover is suitable for knitters with foundational skills who are ready to tackle garment construction with shaping and sizing considerations. The pattern provides comprehensive size grading across seven options, enabling a wide range of body types to find an appropriate fit. Knitters are advised to choose their size based on desired positive ease rather than their exact bust measurement, ensuring the finished garment will drape comfortably on the body.