Lydhia

Lydhia Pullover Slipover by Ayako Monier

What is Being Made

Lydhia is a light, airy, and relaxed pullover slipover designed by Ayako Monier in 2019. This top-down knit garment features set-in sleeves and is available in six sizes ranging from XS to XXL, with finished bust measurements from 34 inches to 55.5 inches. The design accommodates 3–5 inches of positive ease, making it a comfortable, versatile layering piece suitable for various body types and styling preferences.

Construction Technique

Lydhia is worked from the top down using a methodical construction approach. The knitter begins at the back neck, increasing stitches to shape the top portion of the back. Stitches are then picked up for the top shoulders, and all sections are gradually increased to transition into working in the round. This top-down method allows for easy customization of length and provides natural stopping points for trying on the garment during the knitting process.

Stitches and Stitch Details

• Stockinette Stitch: The primary stitch used throughout the body and sleeves, creating a smooth, classic knit fabric with a V-shaped texture on the right side
• Slipped Stitch: A unique accent stitch featured at the sleeve cuffs and body hem that creates a distinctive textured edge. The pattern notes that slipped stitch produces a tighter gauge than Stockinette stitch, with sleeve slipped stitch measuring 32 stitches and 32 rows over 4 inches, while body slipped stitch measures 25.3 stitches and 40 rows over 4 inches

Gauge and Needles

The pattern calls for a gauge of 22.5 stitches and 31 rounds over 4 inches in Stockinette stitch using US size 5 needles. Achieving proper gauge is essential for obtaining the correct finished measurements and fit. Knitters should note that the slipped stitch sections will pull tighter than the Stockinette stitch sections, which is an intentional design feature that accentuates the cuffs and hem.

Yarn and Materials

Lydhia is designed to be knitted with Heritage Silk from Cascade Yarns, a fingering-weight yarn composed of 85% Merino Superwash Wool and 15% Mulberry Silk. Each skein contains 100 grams (3.5 ounces) and provides 437 yards (400 meters) of yarn. The yardage requirements vary by size: XS requires approximately 1,100 yards, S requires 1,250 yards, M requires 1,360 yards, L requires 1,520 yards, XL requires 1,620 yards, and XXL requires 1,800 yards. The blend of Merino wool and silk creates a garment that is both breathable and lustrous, with excellent drape and a luxurious feel against the skin.

Difficulty Level

Lydhia is rated as an intermediate-level knitting project. While the primary construction uses straightforward Stockinette stitch, the top-down set-in sleeve construction, working in the round, and the incorporation of slipped stitch details require intermediate knitting skills and familiarity with techniques such as picking up stitches and managing increases across multiple sections simultaneously.