Blue Betty

Blue Betty Knit Sweater by Triona Murphy

What is Being Made

Blue Betty is a knitted sweater designed by Triona Murphy, available in seven sizes ranging from extra small through 3X. The finished bust measurements span from 29.5 inches (75 cm) for the XS size up to 57.25 inches (146 cm) for the 3X size, accommodating a wide range of body types. The sample shown in the pattern is knitted in size S and modeled with approximately 3 inches of negative ease, creating a fitted silhouette.

Knitting Techniques and Construction

This intermediate-level knitting project uses circular needle construction, a technique that allows for seamless knitting in the round. The pattern employs both flat and circular knitting methods: the main body is worked on a 29-inch circular needle, while the sleeves are worked in the round using double-pointed needles or the preferred method for small circumference knitting. The sweater incorporates color work, utilizing a main color (MC) and a contrasting color (CC) to create visual interest in the design.

Stitches and Stitch Techniques

The pattern uses fundamental knitting stitches and shaping techniques appropriate for an intermediate skill level. Key abbreviations include knit (k) and purl (p) for basic stitches, k2tog (knit two together) for right-leaning decreases, and ssk (slip, slip, knit) for left-leaning decreases. The pattern also incorporates place marker (pm) and slip marker (sl m) techniques to track pattern repeats and construction sections. Cast-on (CO) stitches establish the foundation for the garment.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

Blue Betty is designed to be knitted with worsted-weight yarn. The pattern calls for Madelinetosh Tosh Vintage, a premium yarn composed of 100% superwash merino wool. Each skein contains 200 yards (183 meters) and weighs 110 grams. Yardage requirements vary by size: the XS, S, and M sizes require 5, 5, and 6 skeins respectively of the main color (Betty Draper's Blues), while the L, 1X, 2X, and 3X sizes require 6, 7, 8, and 9 skeins. One skein in the contrasting color (Antler) is needed for all sizes.

Needles Required

The pattern specifies the following needle sizes for proper gauge and construction:

• One US #6 [4.0 mm] circular needle, 29 inches long
• One US #7 [4.5 mm] circular needle, 29 inches long
• One set of US #6 [4.0 mm] double-pointed needles for working sleeves in the round
• One set of US #7 [4.5 mm] double-pointed needles for working sleeves in the round
• One spare set of double-pointed needles or spare circular needle in US #7 or smaller size

The pattern emphasizes checking gauge and adjusting needle size as needed to achieve proper fit and fabric characteristics.