Relax

Relax Pullover by Ririko

What Is Being Made

Relax is a comfortable, oversized pullover designed by Ririko that fits like a casual t-shirt. The garment features dolman sleeves, which are characterized by their wide, draped construction that tapers toward the wrist, creating a flattering silhouette suitable for various body types. This pullover is designed as an easy-to-wear layering piece that pairs effortlessly with existing wardrobe items.

Garment Specifications

The Relax pullover is available in six sizes ranging from extra-small to extra-large:

• XS: 82.5 cm (32.5") chest circumference, approximately 1260 yards (1150 meters)
• S: 87.5 cm (34.5") chest circumference, approximately 1405 yards (1285 meters)
• M: 95 cm (37.5") chest circumference, approximately 1550 yards (1415 meters)
• L: 105 cm (41.5") chest circumference, approximately 1730 yards (1580 meters)
• XL: 115 cm (45") chest circumference, approximately 1855 yards (1695 meters)
• XXL: 125 cm (49") chest circumference, approximately 2052 yards (2052 meters)

Knitting Techniques

The Relax pullover is constructed using fundamental knitting techniques appropriate for an intermediate skill level. The garment is knit in the round using circular needles, a method that eliminates the need for seaming the body and creates a seamless, comfortable fit. The dolman sleeves are worked separately on smaller circular needles before being joined to the body, allowing for precise shaping and control over the sleeve cap and taper.

Stitches Used

While specific stitch patterns are not detailed in the pattern overview, the intermediate difficulty level suggests the use of standard knit and purl stitches combined with increases and decreases to shape the dolman sleeves and body. The construction method indicates the use of stockinette stitch or similar foundational stitches that create a smooth, wearable fabric suitable for a casual pullover.

Yarn and Materials

The Relax pattern calls for sport weight yarn, a lightweight yarn category that produces a drapey, breathable fabric ideal for comfortable everyday wear. The sample garment is knit in Madelinetosh Pashmina, a luxury blend composed of 75% Merino wool, 15% silk, and 10% cashmere, which provides softness, breathability, and subtle sheen. This yarn is available at 360 yards per 100 grams.

Essential tools required for this project include:

• One pair of JP 5 (3.6 mm) straight needles or one circular needle in the appropriate length for your bust size (for knitting the body)
• One JP 4 (3.3 mm) circular needle measuring 80–100 cm (32"–40") for working the sleeves
• One JP 4 (3.3 mm) circular needle measuring 60 cm (24")
• Stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats and shaping
• Removable markers for noting specific rows or sections
• Stitch holders for temporarily securing stitches
• Tapestry needle for weaving in yarn ends
• Straight pins for blocking and shaping the finished garment

Difficulty Level

This pattern is rated as intermediate, making it suitable for knitters who have mastered basic techniques and are ready to tackle projects involving circular needle construction, shaping through increases and decreases, and sleeve cap manipulation. The straightforward design and simple construction method make it an accessible intermediate project despite the technical skills required.