Sanctuary

Sanctuary Sweater by Geekymumma

What Is Being Made

Sanctuary is a versatile knitted sweater designed by independent designer Geekymumma. This garment is crafted to transition seamlessly between casual occasions—from weekend relaxation with a warm beverage to social outings like brunch with friends. The sweater embodies the concept of comfort and safety through its thoughtful construction and wearable design, making it a go-to winter garment for everyday wear.

Construction Method

Sanctuary is worked top down in the round, a construction technique that allows for seamless integration of body and sleeve sections. This method provides flexibility for fit adjustments and eliminates the need for seaming, resulting in a more comfortable garment with continuous fabric flow from neckline to hem.

Stitches and Texture

The pattern incorporates stocking stitch as the primary stitch structure, paired with fisherman's rib for textured detailing. Fisherman's rib is a dimensional, elastic stitch that creates visual interest and adds warmth through its thick, cushioned texture. This combination of smooth and textured stitches provides both aesthetic appeal and functional insulation.

Yarn and Materials

Sanctuary is designed for DK weight yarn, offering a balanced fabric weight suitable for layering and year-round wear. The sample shown uses Yarn Therapy Tweedy 8ply, which provides 211 meters (231 yards) per 100 grams. Total yardage requirements range from 1055 to 2539 yards depending on size, with the sample requiring 760 grams (1604 meters / 1754 yards) of yarn.

Needles and Gauge

The pattern requires 4mm needles for fisherman's rib sections. Achieving correct gauge is essential for proper fit: the pattern specifies 22 stitches and 30 rows over 10 centimeters (4 inches) in stocking stitch, and 16 stitches and 36 rows in fisherman's rib over 10 centimeters (4 inches). These gauge measurements ensure the sweater achieves its intended dimensions and drape.

Sizing and Fit

Sanctuary is available in multiple sizes with the displayed sample shown in body size 110 centimeters (44 inches) with 45 centimeter (18.25 inch) sleeves. The sweater is designed to be worn with 10 to 15 centimeters (4 to 6 inches) of positive ease, providing comfortable room for movement while maintaining a flattering silhouette. Specific measurements for the sample include upper bust of 105 centimeters (42 inches) and full bust of 120 centimeters (48 inches), with upper arm circumference of 44 centimeters (17.5 inches).

Difficulty Level

This pattern is rated as intermediate difficulty, suitable for knitters with foundational skills who are ready to tackle more complex stitch patterns and construction techniques. The combination of top-down seamless construction and textured stitchwork requires comfort with in-the-round knitting and stitch manipulation.

Additional Resources

Detailed tutorials for specific techniques used in this pattern are available on the designer's website at geekymumma.com/tutorials, providing additional support for knitters working through the pattern.