Snakes and Ladders Gansey

This sweater is based on the traditional ganseys of the UK. These were sweaters worn by the fishermen along the coasts of England and Scotland and were often made of young boys as well. They are comfortable sweaters that fit well, owing to the underarm gusset, and are very straightforward to knit as they are drop-shouldered. It is a seamless garment, work in the round for the cast-on to the underarm, then the pullover is knitted flat to the shoulders. After the shoulders are joined, the sleeves are picked up and knitted down to the cuffs.

The sweater is worked in sport-weight yarn (or traditional Gansey yarn) and includes the following design details: the knotted cast-on, circular garter welt, three-stitch seam, plain area, the historic Snakes and Ladders motif, underarm gusset, three-needle bind-off with ridge on RS, shaped neckline, and a choice of a rolled or ribbed neckband.

The pattern includes charts, photos, theory boxes, and technique boxes for increases and the cast-on.