Pentney in Mode at Rowan Alpaca Wool - Downloadable PDF

Pentney in Mode at Rowan Alpaca Wool Knitted Sweater

What is Being Made

The Pentney is a top-down knitted sweater designed by Quail Studio, available in two neckline variations: a classic crew neck or a V-neck option. This intermediate-level knitting project is constructed using the top-down method, allowing knitters to try on the garment as it progresses and customize the length to their preference. The sweater is sized to fit chest measurements ranging from 81–86 cm (32–34 inches) through 152–157 cm (60–62 inches), making it suitable for a wide range of body types.

Knitting Techniques Used

The Pentney employs several key knitting techniques that define its intermediate difficulty level. The top-down construction method begins at the neckline and works downward, using circular needles to accommodate the body stitches. Cable work features prominently in the pattern, as indicated by the special abbreviation C4B (cable 4 back), which involves slipping stitches onto a cable needle to create twisted, textured columns. The pattern incorporates both flat knitting sections and in-the-round knitting using circular needles and double-pointed needles for the sleeve caps and ribbed sections. Shaping techniques are used throughout to create proper garment fit, including increases for the body and decreases for sleeve caps.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The Pentney uses a combination of fundamental and decorative stitches. Knit and purl stitches form the base fabric and create textured patterning. Ribbed sections, typically worked in knit and purl combinations, provide elasticity and structure at the neckline, cuffs, and hem. Cable stitches—specifically the C4B (cable 4 back) technique mentioned in the pattern abbreviations—create raised, twisted textures that add visual interest and depth to the sweater. The stitch pattern is worked over a repeat that maintains consistency across the body and sleeves, with tension-critical measurements ensuring the cables and patterning remain properly proportioned.

Materials: Yarn and Needles

The Pentney is designed to be knitted with Mode at Rowan Alpaca Wool, a DK-weight yarn supplied in 50-gram balls. The crew neck version requires 12–23 balls depending on size, while the V-neck version requires 11–22 balls. The pattern was photographed in two colorways: Fawn 015 for the crew neck and Slate 012 for the V-neck, though the yarn is available in additional colors. Knitters will need a pair of 3.75mm (UK size 9, US size 5) straight needles for flat sections, a 3.75mm circular needle measuring no more than 90–160 cm in length depending on size, and a set of four 3.75mm double-pointed needles for working small circumferences such as sleeve caps. The pattern specifies a tension of 24 stitches and 32 rows or rounds to 10 centimeters when measured over the stitch pattern using 3.75mm needles, making accurate gauge swatching essential for proper fit. Additional notions include stitch holders, stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats and shaping points, and a cable needle for managing cable stitches.