When Snow Falls

When Snow Falls Knitted Sweater by Verena Cohrs

What is Being Made

When Snow Falls is a knitted sweater design created by independent designer Verena Cohrs. This pullover sweater is available in eight sizes, with finished bust circumferences ranging from 87.5 cm (34.5") to 142.5 cm (56"). The design features optional waist and hip shaping, making it a versatile garment suitable for various body types and fit preferences. The pattern recommends wearing the sweater with 1.5 to 4.75 inches of positive ease for comfortable wear.

Knitting Techniques and Construction

This intermediate-level knitting project employs circular needle construction, a technique that allows for seamless or nearly seamless garment creation. The pattern uses two different needle sizes to achieve proper gauge and fabric characteristics: a primary 4 mm (US 6) circular needle and a smaller 3.75 mm (US 5) circular needle. Both circular needles require a cable length of at least 80 cm (32") to accommodate the garment's circumference during construction.

The design incorporates shaping techniques, with optional waist and hip shaping available for a more fitted silhouette. This intermediate difficulty level suggests that knitters should be comfortable with techniques beyond basic stockinette stitch and have experience working with circular needles and managing stitch counts across multiple sizes.

Stitches and Stitch Details

While specific stitch patterns are not detailed in the provided pattern notes, the intermediate classification and reference to cable needles in the notions list suggest the design likely includes cable stitches or other textured stitch patterns. The use of stitch markers and the need for a darning needle indicate the pattern involves techniques requiring careful stitch management and finishing work.

Yarn and Materials

Yarn: The pattern calls for Woolly Mammoth Fibres Wensleydale DK, a DK-weight yarn composed of 100% British Wensleydale wool. This yarn provides 230 metres (251 yards) per 100 grams. Yardage requirements vary by size: size 1 requires 890 metres, while size 8 requires 1645 metres. The design is shown in natural white and blue gradient colorways, offering classic and contemporary color options.

Needles and Notions: Knitters will need two circular needles in sizes US 5 and US 6 (3.75 mm and 4 mm), each with at least 80 cm (32") cable length. Additional materials include a darning needle for weaving in ends, stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats and shaping points, a tape measure for checking gauge and finished measurements, and either scrap yarn or stitch holders for holding stitches during construction. Blocking tools are listed as optional but recommended for finishing the garment to specified dimensions.

Yarn Weight and Gauge Considerations

The DK-weight yarn used in When Snow Falls creates a fabric with good drape and structure, suitable for a wearable sweater. Achieving proper gauge is essential for this pattern, as the finished bust circumferences depend on accurate stitch and row gauge. Knitters should swatch with the recommended needle sizes to ensure their gauge matches the pattern requirements before beginning the full project.