Gone Sailing

Gone Sailing Sweater by Pat Menchini

What is Being Made

Gone Sailing is a knitted sweater designed by Pat Menchini, available as a downloadable PDF pattern. This intermediate-level project creates a classic pullover sweater with a nautical-inspired design, suitable for chest sizes ranging from 81-86 cm (32-34 inches) up to 132-137 cm (52-54 inches). The pattern includes six different size options to accommodate a wide range of body measurements.

Techniques and Construction Methods

This knitting project employs several key techniques to create its finished structure. The pattern utilizes reverse stockinette stitch as the primary fabric base, which creates a textured, bumpy surface that is characteristic of modern knitwear design. Cable knitting techniques are incorporated into the design, requiring the use of a cable needle to create twisted, rope-like stitch patterns that add visual interest and dimension to the garment. The sweater is constructed using a combination of different needle sizes to create varied fabric densities and shaping throughout the piece.

Stitches Used

• Reverse Stockinette Stitch (rev st st): The primary stitch used throughout the sweater, creating the main fabric texture
• Cable Stitches: Decorative twisted stitches created with a cable needle, adding structural and visual detail
• Button Band Stitches: Specialized stitching for the button closure areas

Materials and Specifications

The Gone Sailing sweater is worked using King Cole Big Value Tonal Chunky yarn in the shade Hazy 2540. This chunky-weight yarn provides quick project completion and a substantial, cozy fabric. Yarn requirements vary by size: 6 balls for the smallest size (81-86 cm chest), increasing to 9 balls for the largest size (132-137 cm chest). Each 100g ball contains 152 metres or 167 yards of yarn.

The pattern requires two sets of knitting needles: 5 mm needles (UK 6, US 8) and 6 mm needles (UK 4, US 10). The 6 mm needles are used for the main fabric, where the tension is measured at 14 stitches and 20 rows over 10 cm (4 inches) in reverse stockinette stitch. A cable needle is essential for working the cable stitch elements. The sweater features 4 buttons for closure, completing the functional and decorative elements of the design.

Finished Measurements

The sweater is designed with generous, relaxed fit measurements. Actual chest circumference ranges from 97 cm (38¼ inches) for the smallest size to 149 cm (58¾ inches) for the largest size. Length to shoulder varies between 64 cm (25¼ inches) and 70 cm (27½ inches) depending on size. Sleeve seam length ranges from 46 cm (18 inches) to 49 cm (19½ inches), providing versatile proportions for different body types and style preferences.