Interrupted rib

Interrupted Rib Sweater by Kiri FitzGerald

Garment Overview

The Interrupted Rib is an intermediate-level knitted sweater designed by Kiri FitzGerald. This pullover-style top features a distinctive interrupted rib stitch pattern that creates visual texture and interest throughout the garment. The sweater is constructed using a combination of circular and flat knitting techniques, making it an engaging project for knitters with some experience.

Construction Method

This sweater employs a sophisticated mixed-method construction approach. The body is worked from the bottom up in the round using circular needles, continuing to the armpits in seamless construction. Once the armpits are reached, the front and back are worked separately in rows using flat knitting techniques, maintaining the seamless aesthetic. The sleeves utilize dolman construction and are worked in conjunction with the body, creating a cohesive garment without traditional seaming.

Stitch Techniques

The primary stitch pattern is the interrupted rib, which combines ribbed elements with strategic breaks in the pattern to create visual variation. This technique requires understanding of basic knit and purl stitches combined in a structured pattern repeat. The interrupted rib pattern is worked after blocking to achieve the specified tension of 21 stitches and 28 rows per 10 centimeters (4 inches).

Yarn and Materials

• Yarn Weight: DK weight yarn
• Yardage Required: 1155 to 1465 meters (1263 to 1602 yards) depending on size
• Sample Yarn: Debbie Bliss Rialto DK in 8ply, 100% Superwash Merino, knit in Indigo colorway
• Yardage per Ball: 105 meters (50g balls)
• Balls Required: 11 to 14 balls depending on size

Needles and Notions

• Circular Needle: 4.5mm (US 7) in 80cm/32" length for working the body in the round
• Small Circumference Needles: 4.5mm (US 7) needles in preferred type (double-pointed needles, circular needles, or other preferred method) for working small circumference sections in the round
• Additional Notions: Waste yarn for stitch holders, tapestry needle for finishing, and 2 buttons measuring 2cm/¾" each

Sizing and Fit

The Interrupted Rib sweater is available in six sizes with finished bust measurements ranging from 87 centimeters (34¼ inches) to 110.5 centimeters (43½ inches). The garment is designed to be worn with positive ease of 7.5 to 10 centimeters (2 to 4 inches), meaning the finished garment will measure larger than the wearer's actual bust measurement for a comfortable, relaxed fit.

Difficulty Level

Rated as intermediate difficulty, this pattern is suitable for knitters who have mastered basic techniques and are ready to tackle more complex construction methods. The combination of circular knitting, flat knitting, and dolman sleeve construction requires understanding of multiple techniques and the ability to follow detailed instructions.

Design Details

The sweater features button closures, with two buttons incorporated into the design. The shoulder stitches are joined using a seamless method, contributing to the polished, professional appearance of the finished garment. The seamless construction throughout the body and sleeves eliminates the need for seaming, resulting in a smooth, comfortable wear.