Sweaters in Stylecraft Monet and Jeanie - 9617 - Downloadable PDF

Stylecraft 9617: Sweaters in Monet and Jeanie – Knitting Pattern Summary

Stylecraft pattern 9617 is a downloadable PDF knitting pattern featuring two distinct sweater designs worked in Aran weight yarn. Both designs are sized to fit a wide range of bust measurements, from 81–86 cm (32–34 in) up to 122–127 cm (48–50 in), making this pattern an excellent choice for knitters who want inclusive sizing. The pattern is rated intermediate in difficulty, making it ideal for knitters who are comfortable with basic shaping techniques and are ready to tackle more structured garment construction.

Design One: Crew Neck Sweater

The first design in this pattern is a classic Crew Neck Sweater with a clean, timeless silhouette. This is a versatile, wearable garment that suits a wide range of styles and occasions. The finished actual measurements range from approximately 100 cm (39¼ in) to 140 cm (55 in) in width, with a full length of 58–69 cm (22¾–27¼ in) depending on the size chosen. Sleeve length measures 45–48 cm (17¾–19 in).

Construction and Shaping

The Crew Neck Sweater is constructed in separate pieces — back, front, and sleeves — which are then seamed together. A key design feature is the raglan sleeve shaping, which creates a diagonal seam line running from the underarm to the neckline. Raglan construction distributes the fabric across the shoulder in a relaxed, comfortable way and is a hallmark of classic knitwear design.

The back begins by casting on between 90 and 126 stitches depending on size, using 4.5mm needles for the ribbed hem. After working 3 cm (1¼ in) of garter stitch for the lower border, the knitter switches to 5mm needles and continues in stocking stitch for the main body. Raglan shaping is then worked using a combination of cast-off rows at the underarm and paired decreases — specifically skpo (slip, knit, pass slipped stitch over) and k2tog (knit two together) — positioned two stitches in from each edge to create a neat, defined raglan line.

Stitches and Techniques

• Garter stitch – used for the lower border/hem, creating a firm, non-curling edge
• Stocking stitch – the main body fabric, worked by alternating knit and purl rows
• Raglan shaping – achieved through paired decreases on right-side rows
• skpo (slip, knit, pass slipped stitch over) – a left-leaning decrease
• k2tog (knit two together) – a right-leaning decrease
• Crew neckline construction – a classic round neckline finish

Design Two: Bardot Neck Sweater

The second design in Stylecraft pattern 9617 is a Bardot Neck Sweater, offering a more fashion-forward silhouette with an off-shoulder or wide-neck styling inspired by the iconic Bardot neckline. This design has slightly different finished measurements, with actual widths ranging from approximately 98 cm (38½ in) to 138 cm (54¼ in) and a full length of 56–67 cm (22–26½ in), making it a slightly more relaxed and cropped option compared to the Crew Neck version.

Construction and Shaping

Like the Crew Neck Sweater, the Bardot Neck design is worked in pieces and seamed. The distinctive wide or off-shoulder neckline is the defining feature of this garment, lending it a contemporary, elegant feel. The Bardot neckline is a popular style in knitwear that creates a flattering, relaxed drape across the shoulders and collarbone area.

Stitches and Techniques

• Stocking stitch – used for the main body