Jewel

Jewel Knitted Sweater by Pat Menchini

What is Being Made

Jewel is a knitted sweater designed by Pat Menchini, available in six sizes ranging from bust measurements of 76-81 cm (30-32 inches) through to 127-132 cm (50-52 inches). This beginner-level knitting project creates a finished garment with an actual bust measurement of 88-143 cm depending on size selection, and a length to shoulder shaping of 58-65 cm. The sweater features a classic construction with set-in sleeves measuring 44 cm in length across all sizes.

Yarn Materials

This design uses two complementary DK weight yarns to create visual interest and depth. The primary yarn is Rico Creative Melange DK, a multicolor option in shade Multicolor (017), which provides the main color palette and texture. This yarn yields 200 metres (219 yards) per 50g ball. The secondary yarn is Rico Essentials Merino DK in shade Plum (17), a solid contrast yarn offering 120 metres (131 yards) per 50g ball. Yarn requirements vary by size: smaller sizes require 4 balls of the Rico Creative Melange DK and 1 ball of the Rico Essentials Merino DK, while the largest size needs 6 balls of each yarn respectively.

Needles and Tools

The pattern requires three pairs of knitting needles in graduated sizes to accommodate different stitch techniques: 3 mm (UK 11, US 2½), 3.25 mm (UK 10, US 3), and 4 mm (UK 8, US 6) needles. Additionally, two stitch holders are needed for managing stitches during construction, particularly useful for holding stitches while working different sections of the sweater.

Knitting Techniques and Stitches

The Jewel sweater is constructed using fundamental knitting techniques appropriate for beginner-level crafters. The primary stitch used throughout the garment is stockinette stitch (st-st), which creates the smooth, classic fabric characteristic of this sweater design. The pattern employs a tension of 22 stitches and 28 rows to 10 cm (4 inches) measured over stockinette stitch using 4 mm needles, which is essential for achieving the correct finished measurements.

The graduated needle sizes serve specific purposes within the construction: the smallest needles are typically used for ribbed edgings and cuffs that require a tighter gauge, the medium needles provide a transitional gauge, and the largest needles are used for the main body fabric worked in stockinette stitch. This tiered needle approach is a standard technique for creating well-finished garments with neat edges and proper fit.

Pattern Construction Details

The sweater follows a traditional set-in sleeve construction method, with separate pieces for the front, back, and two sleeves that are later seamed together. The use of stitch holders indicates that certain stitches—likely at the armholes and neckline—are held temporarily during construction and then worked together or bound off to create finished edges. The consistent sleeve seam length of 44 cm across all sizes demonstrates that this design maintains proportional sleeve length regardless of overall garment size.

The combination of Rico Creative Melange DK's multicolor effect with the solid Plum shade from Rico Essentials Merino DK creates a sophisticated color-blocking or accent detail, allowing crafters to personalize their finished sweater through yarn placement choices.