Arbus Pullover in Berroco Millstone Tweed - Downloadable PDF

Arbus Pullover in Berroco Millstone Tweed

What is Being Made

The Arbus Pullover is a classic knitted sweater designed by Alison Green, available in nine size options ranging from 38½" to 69½" bust measurement. This intermediate-level pullover features a relaxed fit with approximately 4–8" of positive ease, making it suitable for layering or a comfortable everyday wear. The back length is intentionally 1" longer than the front, creating a subtle asymmetrical silhouette. The pullover is shown in size 42½" with a finished bust measurement of 108 cm and a back length of 48.5 cm.

Knitting Techniques Used

This pullover is constructed using circular knitting techniques, which allows for seamless construction and the ability to work in the round. The pattern employs a top-down or bottom-up construction method using circular needles, with sections worked flat and in the round as needed. Stitch markers are used to track pattern repeats and the beginning of round (BOR), with one marker in a different color to clearly identify the round starting point. The pattern includes charted stitch patterns that require reading and following a visual guide, adding to the intermediate skill level.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The primary stitch used throughout the Arbus Pullover is stockinette stitch (St st), which creates a smooth, classic fabric with a V-shaped texture on the right side. The pattern incorporates charted stitch work, with Chart 1 containing 6-stitch repeats that measure 1¼" across. This charted element adds visual interest and texture variation to the garment while maintaining the intermediate difficulty level.

Materials: Yarn and Needles

Yarn: The Arbus Pullover is designed to be knitted in Berroco Millstone Tweed, a worsted-weight yarn (aran weight) in the colorway #11126 Slate. Each ball weighs 50 grams, and the yardage required varies by size, ranging from 10 balls for the smallest size (38½") to 18 balls for the largest size (69½"). Berroco Millstone Tweed is a textured, tweedy yarn that adds visual depth and warmth to the finished garment.

Needles and Notions: The pattern requires multiple needle sizes to accommodate different sections of the sweater. A 32" circular needle in sizes 7 (4.5 mm) and 8 (5 mm) is used for the main body of the pullover, with the larger size 8 needle used for stockinette stitch sections. A smaller 16" circular needle in size 7 (4.5 mm) is specified for working the neckline. Double-pointed needles or preferred small-circumference needles in both sizes 7 and 8 are needed for finishing details such as sleeve caps or ribbed edges. Additional notions include stitch markers (with one in a contrasting color), a tapestry needle for weaving in ends, and waste yarn for temporarily holding stitches during construction.

Gauge and Sizing

The recommended gauge for the Arbus Pullover is 16 stitches and 24 rows per 4" (10 cm) when worked in stockinette stitch using the larger size 8 (5 mm) needles. Achieving the correct gauge is essential for obtaining the finished measurements. The pattern offers nine sizes with bust measurements of 38½", 42½", 46½", 50½", 53½", 57½", 61½", 65½", and 69½", allowing for a customized fit across a wide range of body types.