Akebia sweater

Akebia Sweater by Maloraé Designs

What is Being Made

The Akebia sweater is a downloadable knitting pattern for an elegant pullover garment available in eight sizes, ranging from size 0 through size 7. The finished bust circumference ranges from 85 cm (33.5") for the smallest size to 155 cm (61") for the largest size, making this design versatile for various body measurements. The sweater features a length from underarm to hem of 43 cm (17") and sleeve length from underarm to cuff of 42 cm (16.5"), creating a classic, wearable silhouette with approximately 5 cm (2") of positive ease recommended for comfortable fit.

Knitting Techniques Used

This intermediate-level knitting project employs several essential techniques to create its finished structure. The pattern utilizes a three-needle bind-off method for secure finishing. Construction involves working with stitch markers and stitch holders to manage the various sections of the garment during the knitting process. The design incorporates lace stitch work, which requires careful attention to yarn overs and decreases to create the characteristic openwork patterns typical of lace-weight projects.

Stitches and Stitch Work

The primary stitch pattern used throughout the Akebia sweater is lace, which is worked on 4 mm (US 6) needles at a gauge of 21 stitches and 32 rows per 10 cm after blocking. The ribbing sections are worked on smaller 3.5 mm (US 24) needles to create definition and structure at the cuffs and hem. The lace stitch pattern requires precision in executing yarn overs and corresponding decreases to maintain proper stitch counts and create the intended openwork design.

Materials: Yarn, Needles, and Notions

The Akebia sweater is designed to be knit with two strands of mohair held together throughout the project. The yardage requirements vary by size: the smallest sizes require approximately 1460–1630 meters (1596–1785 yards), while the largest sizes require approximately 2500–2660 meters (2735–2910 yards). The pattern specifies the use of 4 mm (US 6) needles for the body and 3.5 mm (US 24) needles for ribbing sections. Additional notions required include stitch markers and stitch holders to manage stitches during construction. The pattern recommends achieving a gauge of 21 stitches and 32 rows to 10 cm in lace stitch on 4 mm needles after blocking to ensure proper finished measurements.