Imogen Sweater

Imogen Sweater by Jo Sharp

What is Being Made

The Imogen Sweater is an elegantly shaped dolman sleeve sweater designed by Jo Sharp. This downloadable knitting pattern offers two distinct versions to suit different style preferences. Version 1 features a firmly fitted long bodice rib band, while Version 2 provides a more relaxed rib with a shorter bodice for a slouchy aesthetic. Both versions showcase the same sophisticated construction with dolman sleeves, making this pattern versatile for knitters seeking either a tailored or casual fit.

Techniques Used

The Imogen Sweater employs several key knitting techniques to achieve its distinctive appearance and structure. The pattern utilizes alternating yarn types and needle sizes worked in alternating rows to create a textured fabric. Edge-to-edge stitch is used to join the sides and sleeve seams, including the sleeve ribs, ensuring neat and professional finishing. The construction method involves picking up stitches along the sleeve edge and working in ribbed sections, demonstrating intermediate shaping techniques suitable for beginner-level knitters with basic experience.

Stitches Used

• Stocking Stitch: Forms the primary fabric of the sweater body
• Garter Stitch: Contributes to the textured fabric composition
• K2, P2 Rib: Used for the bodice rib band and sleeve ribs, providing elasticity and structure
• Stripe Pattern: Created by alternating colors and needle sizes across rows to enhance visual texture

Materials

The Imogen Sweater pattern calls for two distinct yarn types worked in combination. Jo Sharp New Era Merino DK Superwash and Jo Sharp Mulberry Silk Georgette are alternated throughout the pattern to create the signature textured fabric. The pattern requires multiple needle sizes: 4.00mm needles for the ribbed sections, 5.50mm needles for certain pattern elements, and 9.00mm needles for the main fabric and stripe pattern work. The varied needle sizes, combined with the two complementary yarns, work together to produce the soft, textured appearance characteristic of this design.

Tension

Achieving correct tension is essential for this pattern. The main fabric tension is 24 stitches and 30 rows measured over 10cm (approximately 4 inches) of unstretched Stocking and Garter stitch. The sleeve rib tension is 16 stitches and 30 rows measured over 10cm (approximately 4 inches) of K2, P2 rib using 4.00mm needles. Knitters should swatch carefully before beginning to ensure proper fit, particularly given the fitted bodice option in Version 1.