Da Capo Colourwork Jumper in Novita Venla - Downloadable PDF

Da Capo Colourwork Jumper in Novita Venla

What is Being Made

The Da Capo Colourwork Jumper is an intermediate-level knitted sweater designed by Sari Nordlund. This pullover features a striking colourwork pattern worked in two coordinating shades and is available in six sizes ranging from XS/S through 3XL, with finished body circumferences from 34¾ inches (88 cm) to 53½ inches (136 cm) and lengths from 22 inches (56 cm) to 26¾ inches (68 cm).

Knitting Techniques and Construction

This sweater is constructed using circular knitting in the round, a technique that creates seamless garments and is particularly suited to colourwork projects. The pattern employs strategic increases worked evenly across rounds to shape the garment and adjust stitch counts at key construction points. The designer uses a two-needle approach, switching between smaller and larger needle sizes to create distinct sections and manage gauge changes between the ribbed edgings and the main colourwork body.

The construction involves multiple increase rounds strategically placed to expand the piece. For example, increase round 5 adds between 24 and 52 stitches depending on size, while increase round 6 adds 20 to 48 stitches, allowing the designer to achieve proper shaping and fit across the full size range.

Stitches Used

• Stockinette Stitch – the primary stitch throughout the sweater, creating a smooth, classic fabric that provides an ideal canvas for the colourwork pattern
• Colourwork Pattern – an 8-stitch repeat pattern worked over 31 rows, repeated 37 to 42 times across the body depending on size, creating the distinctive patterned section

Materials: Yarn and Needles

This pattern is designed for Novita Venla yarn in a 4-ply weight, a lightweight yet durable yarn suitable for detailed colourwork. Two colorways are used: Oat (the primary colour, requiring 300–550 grams depending on size) and Sandy Beach (the contrast colour, requiring 50–100 grams). The pattern requires both smaller and larger circular needles to accommodate the different sections and stitch counts, though specific needle sizes are referenced within the full pattern instructions.

The 4-ply weight combined with circular knitting in the round makes this an excellent project for knitters seeking to develop their colourwork skills while creating a wearable, versatile jumper suitable for layering.