Pacificus DK

Pacificus DK Summer Sweater by Laura Nelkin

What is Being Made

Pacificus DK is a classic summer sweater designed by Laura Nelkin, crafted using side-to-side construction with DK weight yarn. This intermediate-level knitting project features a sophisticated combination of stitch techniques that create a garment with beautiful drape and tailored finishing details. The sweater is available in eight sizes, ranging from 32 inches to 60 inches bust circumference, making it suitable for a wide range of body types.

Construction Technique

The sweater employs a distinctive side-to-side construction method, which allows the knitter to build the garment horizontally rather than in the traditional top-down or bottom-up approach. This technique offers unique advantages for fit and shaping. The design incorporates a turned hem for a polished, professional finish and features split side seams that provide both tailored aesthetics and practical flexibility in the hip area, allowing wearers to customize the fit to their body shape.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

Pacificus DK showcases a thoughtful combination of knitting stitches that work together to create the garment's signature drape and structure:

• Shetland Bead Stitch — A traditional stitch pattern used along the top of the sweater, adding visual interest and texture to the neckline and shoulder areas
• Reverse Stockinette Stitch — Used for the body of the sweater, this stitch creates a smooth, refined surface while contributing to the garment's drape characteristics
• Open Lace Work — Incorporated into the bodice area, the lace work creates an airy, open construction that allows the fabric to fall gracefully while maintaining breathability, ideal for a summer garment

Materials and Yarn Requirements

Pacificus DK is designed specifically for DK weight yarn, a medium-weight yarn that provides an excellent balance between drape and structure. The yardage requirements vary by size, ranging from 500 yards for the smallest size (32 inches) to 1,150 yards for the largest size (56 inches), with the final size (60 inches) requiring 1,220 yards. The designer used Cloudborn Fibers Pima Cotton DK (100% cotton) for the original sample, making this an ideal choice for warm-weather wear with excellent breathability and natural fiber properties. Knitters will need appropriate needles for DK weight yarn to execute the side-to-side construction and various stitch patterns effectively.

Difficulty Level

This pattern is rated as intermediate difficulty, making it suitable for knitters with some experience who are ready to tackle more complex construction methods and stitch combinations. The side-to-side building technique and combination of different stitch patterns require attention to detail and familiarity with reading patterns, but the finished result rewards the effort with a sophisticated, professionally finished garment.