Under Duress

Under Duress Knitted Sweater by JimiKnits

What is Being Made

Under Duress is a classic set-in sleeve V-neck sweater designed for advanced knitters. This seamless, top-down construction creates a sophisticated garment with integral sleeve caps formed directly with the shoulders and neckline, eliminating the need for separate seaming at these crucial junctions.

Construction Method

The sweater is worked seamlessly from the top down, a technique that allows for precise fit adjustments and eliminates the need for finishing seams at the armholes and neckline. The sleeve caps are integrally formed with the shoulders and neckline during the initial construction, creating clean, professional edges without additional assembly work.

Stitch Techniques and Patterning

The body and sleeves feature color blocking combined with slip-stitch patterning that creates distinctive jagged edges throughout the design. This slip-stitch technique adds visual texture and depth while maintaining structural integrity. The color work is worked in blocks rather than traditional stranded colorwork, making it accessible despite the advanced difficulty rating.

Yarn and Materials

• Yarn Weight: Worsted weight yarn
• Needle Size: US 7 circular needles and US 6 circular needles (for ribbing)
• Yarn Amounts by Color: Approximately 1,210 yards total across multiple color blocks
• Gauge: 18 stitches and 24 rows per 4 inches (10 centimeters) on US 7 needles

Skill Level and Considerations

Rated as an advanced knitting project, Under Duress requires solid understanding of seamless construction, color work techniques, and slip-stitch patterning. The top-down method demands careful attention to shaping and stitch counts, making this an excellent project for experienced knitters seeking to refine their technical skills.