Prairie in MODE at Rowan Alpaca Cotton - Downloadable PDF

Prairie Sweater by Quail Studio

What is Being Made

Prairie is a knitted sweater designed by Quail Studio and published by MODE at Rowan. This pullover garment is available in six sizes ranging from XS to XXL, with actual chest measurements from 42½ inches (108 cm) to 53¼ inches (136 cm). The sweater is photographed in Foilage Green 018, showcasing a classic, versatile design suitable for various occasions and body types.

Knitting Techniques Used

This advanced beginner level pattern employs fundamental knitting construction methods combined with textured stitch work. The garment features ribbed edging worked using the double-strand yarn technique, which creates a structured, elastic finish at cuffs and hem. Stockinette stitch forms the primary fabric base, providing a smooth, classic appearance. The pattern incorporates strategic shaping through increases and decreases, including cast-off sections that create armhole and neckline shaping. Stitch markers and stitch holders are essential tools for managing multiple stitches and tracking pattern repeats throughout the construction process.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

• Stockinette Stitch (st st): The main fabric, created by alternating knit and purl rows, producing a smooth V-pattern texture on the right side
• Ribbing: A combination of knit and purl stitches (K3, P2 repeat noted in pattern) that creates vertical columns of texture, used for fitted edges and cuffs
• Cast-off shaping: Structured decreases at armholes and neckline to create proper garment fit

Materials and Yarn Specifications

Prairie is designed to be worked with MODE at Rowan Alpaca Cotton yarn in the DK (double knit) weight category. The pattern requires 15 to 20 balls of 25-gram yarn depending on size selection, with the sample garment using 17 balls. The yarn is held double throughout construction, effectively creating a worsted-weight fabric from the lighter DK yarn. This doubling technique provides enhanced structure and drape while maintaining the luxurious qualities of the alpaca-cotton blend.

Needles and Gauge

The pattern calls for one pair of 4.5mm (US size 7) needles throughout. Achieving proper gauge is critical for garment fit. When working stockinette stitch with yarn held double, the target gauge is 19 stitches and 26 rows over 10 centimeters. For ribbed sections, the gauge measures 25 stitches and 29 rows over 10 centimeters. These gauge measurements ensure the finished sweater will achieve the intended chest measurements and overall proportions across all six size options.