Herrvik

Herrvik Pullover by Cornelia Tuttle Hamilton

What is Being Made

The Herrvik Pullover is a classic knitted sweater designed by independent designer Cornelia Tuttle Hamilton. This pullover is a versatile, everyday garment available in four sizes ranging from Small to Extra Large, with finished chest measurements from 44 inches (112 cm) to 54 inches (137 cm) and a consistent length of approximately 26 to 27.5 inches (66 to 70 cm). The sweater features set-in sleeves with a standard length of 21 inches (53 cm) across all sizes, making it suitable for various body types and proportions.

Knitting Techniques and Construction

This intermediate-level knitting project employs several key techniques to create a well-constructed pullover. The garment is worked using the fundamental method of knitting separate pieces—front, back, and sleeves—that are later seamed together. The pattern incorporates shaping techniques including strategic decreases at the armholes and neck to create a fitted silhouette. The neck shaping is executed by binding off stitches at regular intervals (10 or 11 stitches once, 4 stitches once, 2 stitches once, and 1 stitch twice, depending on size) over alternating rows, creating a gradual and professional-looking neckline. The pattern also includes reverse shaping instructions for the right side of the neck, demonstrating symmetrical construction principles.

Stitches Used

The Herrvik Pullover features two primary stitch patterns that create visual interest and texture:

• Broken Rib Stitch (BR ST): This is the main stitch pattern used throughout the body of the sweater, creating a subtle textured fabric that provides both elasticity and structure to the finished garment.
• Half-Twisted Rib Stitch (HTR ST): This stitch pattern is incorporated into the design, adding variation and visual detail to specific sections of the sweater.
• Twist 2 Back (T2B): A cable technique where one stitch is slipped to a cable needle and held at the back of the work while the next stitch is knitted from the left-hand needle, then the stitch from the cable needle is knitted, creating a twisted cable effect that adds sophistication to the design.

Materials and Gauge

The Herrvik Pullover is designed to be worked in Noro KUREYON yarn in colorway #51, a worsted-weight yarn. The pattern requires 14 to 17 balls of yarn depending on the finished size, with each ball containing 50 grams and 110 yards (100 meters) of fiber. This high-quality, variegated yarn creates beautiful color variation throughout the finished sweater.

The project is worked on US 7 and US 8 needles (4.5 and 5 mm), with the smaller needle size typically used for ribbed edges and the larger size for the main body fabric. The recommended gauge is 18 stitches and 22 rows over 4 inches (10 cm) in Broken Rib stitch, which is essential for achieving the correct finished measurements. Working to gauge ensures that the sweater will fit properly and drape as intended by the designer.