Syngonium Sweater

Syngonium Sweater by Knitatude - Chantal

What Is Being Made

The Syngonium Sweater is a top-down knitted pullover sweater designed with botanical inspiration. Named after the syngonium plant, this garment features decorative lace details on the lower bodice and sleeves that echo the distinctive leaf patterns found in nature. The sweater is constructed to be slightly oversized, offering 2 to 5 inches of positive ease for a relaxed, comfortable fit across all size ranges from XS through 5XL.

Knitting Techniques and Construction

This intermediate-level sweater is worked in the round from the top down, a popular method that allows for seamless construction and easy fitting adjustments. The garment is primarily knitted in stockinette stitch, which creates a smooth, classic fabric base that showcases the lace patterning. The lace details are strategically placed on the lower bodice and sleeve cuffs, providing visual interest and a delicate contrast to the solid body of the sweater.

Stitches Used

• Stockinette Stitch – The primary stitch used throughout the sweater body, worked in the round on circular needles to create a seamless fabric
• Lace Stitches – Decorative lace patterns incorporated on the lower bodice and sleeves, inspired by syngonium leaf motifs

Materials and Gauge

The Syngonium Sweater is designed to be knitted with aran weight yarn (also called heavy worsted weight). Yardage requirements vary by size: XS/S requires 545 yards, M requires approximately 600 yards, L/XL requires 700 yards, 2XL requires 800 yards, 3XL requires 900 yards, and 4XL/5XL requires up to 1090 yards. The original pattern calls for Purl Soho alpaca Pure (now discontinued), but any aran weight yarn of comparable fiber content and yardage may be substituted.

The recommended gauge is 14 stitches and 19 rows over 4 inches when knitted in stockinette stitch on US 10.5/6.5mm needles. This gauge is essential for achieving the correct finished measurements and ease.

Needles and Notions

The pattern requires multiple circular needle sizes to accommodate different sections of the sweater:

• US 10.5/6.5mm circular needles – Available in 16-inch and 24-inch lengths for the main body and sleeves; knitters working the 4XL and 5XL sizes may benefit from a 32-inch needle for increased circumference
• US 10/6mm circular needles – 16-inch length for ribbed cuffs and neckline
• Stitch markers – Four total, with one in a contrasting color to mark the beginning of round
• Darning needle – For weaving in yarn ends upon completion

This downloadable PDF pattern from independent designer Knitatude - Chantal provides a complete guide for creating a wearable, nature-inspired sweater suitable for intermediate knitters seeking a seamless, top-down construction project.