Bottineau Pullover

Bottineau Pullover by Laura Chau

What is Being Made

The Bottineau Pullover is a relaxed-fit knitted sweater designed for comfort and versatility. This pullover features an oversized cowl neckline and is available in 14 sizes ranging from 30" to 56" bust measurements (76cm to 142cm). The finished length varies from 23" to 26" (58cm to 66cm) depending on size. The design works equally well as a casual piece worn with jeans and boots or as a layering garment over dresses for evening wear.

Design Features and Construction

The Bottineau Pullover showcases a thoughtfully balanced silhouette combining ease and structure. The body and sleeves are cut with a relaxed, oversized fit that prioritizes comfort and movement. The defining design element is a slip stitch mock rib pattern that runs throughout the garment and strategically draws in at the waist, creating subtle shaping despite the loose overall fit. The signature oversized cowl neckline is worked using the same slip stitch mock rib pattern with strategic increases that allow the cowl to lay open and drape elegantly. This design choice prevents the wearer from overheating while maintaining the cozy aesthetic of the pullover.

Knitting Techniques and Stitches

This advanced-level knitting project employs several key techniques:

• Slip stitch mock rib: A textured stitch pattern that creates the visual interest and subtle shaping throughout the garment. This technique involves slipping stitches to create a ribbed appearance without the density of true ribbing.
• Increases: Strategically placed increases are used in the cowl section to create the open, draped neckline characteristic of this design.
• Relaxed fit construction: The body and sleeves are knitted with ease to achieve the comfortable, oversized silhouette.

Yarn and Materials

The Bottineau Pullover is knitted using aran weight yarn, which provides the ideal balance of warmth and drape for this design. Aran weight yarn is substantial enough to create a cozy, durable garment while remaining soft and wearable. The pattern specifies that the yarn used should be super soft, contributing to the comfort and appeal of this pullover as a go-to layering piece.

Difficulty Level

This pattern is rated as advanced, reflecting the skill required to execute the slip stitch mock rib pattern consistently throughout the garment and manage the shaping at the waist and cowl. Knitters should be comfortable with stitch techniques, reading complex stitch patterns, and making adjustments for fit.

Pattern Information

The Bottineau Pullover is a downloadable PDF pattern by independent designer Laura Chau. The pattern includes finished measurements in both inches and centimetres, with technical editing by Alexandra Virgiel. The design recommends choosing a size that matches your full bust measurement or is slightly larger for the intended relaxed fit with zero ease as shown in the size 36" sample.