In Stillness

In Stillness Sweater by Alicia Plummer

What Is Being Made

The In Stillness is a knitted pullover sweater designed by independent designer Alicia Plummer. This garment is crafted as a beginner-friendly knitting project suitable for those new to sweater construction. The pattern offers an extensive range of finished bust measurements, from 29.25 inches up to 65.25 inches (74 cm to 165.5 cm), making it accessible for multiple body sizes and fit preferences. The sweater is designed to be worn with negative one to positive two inches of ease, allowing for customizable fit depending on personal preference and desired silhouette.

Craft and Techniques

In Stillness is a knitting project that employs fundamental knitting techniques appropriate for beginners. The sweater construction utilizes circular needles for seamless or nearly seamless construction, which is a common modern approach to sweater knitting. The pattern includes the option for magic loop technique or coordinating double-pointed needles (DPNs) for working smaller circumferences, such as sleeves or necklines. This flexibility in needle choice accommodates different knitter preferences and skill levels.

Stitches Used

The primary stitch structure for In Stillness is stockinette stitch, which creates a smooth, classic fabric with a flat front and textured reverse side. Stockinette stitch is fundamental to sweater knitting and is worked by alternating knit and purl rows (or knit rounds when working in the round on circular needles). This stitch pattern is ideal for beginner knitters as it is straightforward to execute while producing a professional, polished appearance suitable for everyday wear.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The In Stillness sweater is designed to be worked in worsted weight yarn. The sample shown in the pattern was created using Hudson + West Co Forge, a blend of 70% US Merino and 30% US Corriedale wool, which provides warmth, breathability, and durability. This yarn is available at 235 yards (215 meters) per 100-gram skein.

Yardage requirements vary by size, ranging from 800 yards for the smallest size (29.25" finished bust) to 2000 yards for the largest size (65.25" finished bust). Correspondingly, skein quantities range from 4 skeins for smaller sizes to 9 skeins for the largest size. The sample featured in the pattern was worked in the Ash colorway.

Needles and Gauge

The pattern calls for US size 7 (4.5 mm) and US size 6 (4 mm) circular needles, with coordinating double-pointed needles available as an alternative to magic loop technique. The gauge is established at 20 stitches and 24 rows per 4 inches (10 cm) when worked in stockinette stitch on the larger needle. Achieving proper gauge is essential for obtaining the correct finished measurements and fit. The pattern notes that many knitters prefer to use circular needles slightly shorter than their finished bust measurement, which facilitates easier handling during construction.

Skill Level and Accessibility

Classified as a beginner difficulty pattern, In Stillness is an excellent introduction to sweater knitting. The straightforward stockinette stitch construction, combined with clear sizing options and detailed schematic information, makes this project approachable for knitters developing their skills. The availability of finished measurements and schematics on page 6 of the pattern provides essential reference information for ensuring proper fit before beginning the project.