Sweater in Hayfield Bonus DK - 10598 - Downloadable PDF

Sweater in Hayfield Bonus DK

What is Being Made

This is a classic knitted sweater designed in Hayfield Bonus DK yarn, available in six sizes ranging from 81cm to 137cm chest measurement (32 inches to 54 inches). The sweater offers a comprehensive size range from Small through to XXXL, making it suitable for various body types. The full length ranges from 60cm to 70cm depending on size, with consistent sleeve lengths of approximately 44cm to 46cm across the size range.

Techniques Used

The sweater construction employs fundamental knitting techniques suitable for intermediate-level knitters. The pattern requires working with two different stitch patterns to create textural interest and structure. Fisherman's Rib is used in specific sections of the garment, creating a dense, elastic fabric with excellent recovery properties. This stitch is particularly valued for cuffs and waistbands as it maintains its shape well. Stocking Stitch forms the main body of the sweater, providing a smooth, classic appearance. The pattern involves working flat pieces that are subsequently seamed together, with the use of stitch holders to manage live stitches during construction.

Stitches Used

• Fisherman's Rib: Creates a textured, highly elastic fabric used in ribbed sections. This stitch requires working into stitches from the previous row, producing a distinctive appearance with excellent stretch and recovery.
• Stocking Stitch: The primary stitch used for the main body of the sweater, creating a smooth, flat fabric with a distinctive V-pattern on the right side. This classic stitch is worked by alternating knit and purl rows when working flat.

Materials and Specifications

The sweater is designed to be knitted in Hayfield Bonus DK yarn in shade 997 Signal Red. DK (Double Knitting) weight yarn is a medium-weight yarn that works efficiently for garments, providing good stitch definition while maintaining reasonable knitting speed. The yardage requirements vary by size, ranging from 5 balls for the smallest size (S) to 8 balls for the largest size (XXXL), with each ball weighing 100g.

Two pairs of knitting needles are required: 4mm needles (UK size 8, USA size 6) for the main fabric and 3¼mm needles (UK size 10, USA size 3) for the ribbed sections. The smaller needle size creates the tighter gauge needed for Fisherman's Rib, while the larger needles accommodate the more relaxed stocking stitch sections. Stitch holders are necessary to temporarily hold stitches during neck and armhole shaping.

Tension Requirements

Achieving the correct tension is essential for this pattern. When working Fisherman's Rib on 4mm needles, the tension should measure 19 stitches and 42 rows over 10cm (4 inches). For Stocking Stitch on 4mm needles, the tension should be 22 stitches and 28 rows over 10cm (4 inches). These tension specifications ensure the finished sweater achieves the intended measurements and drape. Knitters should always knit a tension swatch before beginning the project to verify their personal gauge matches these requirements.