Pine Shadows

Pine Shadows Knit Sweater by Alicia Plummer

What is Being Made

Pine Shadows is a beginner-friendly knit sweater designed by Alicia Plummer. This top-down constructed pullover features a classic crew neckline with turtleneck finishing and is available in six sizes ranging from 32 inches to 50.75 inches finished bust measurement. The sweater showcases a subtle two-color design incorporating a cream main color with green accent details, creating a nature-inspired aesthetic reminiscent of pine tree shadows.

Construction Technique

The Pine Shadows sweater uses a top-down construction method, which is ideal for beginner knitters as it allows for easy fitting adjustments during the knitting process. The garment is worked flat initially to shape the neckline, then joined in the round at the front once neck shaping is completed. This hybrid approach combines the benefits of flat and circular knitting. The sleeves are worked separately and placed on holders while the body is completed, then finished afterward. The turtleneck is added as a final element, worked in the round and bound off to complete the neckline.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The primary stitch used throughout Pine Shadows is stockinette stitch, which creates a smooth, classic fabric with a flat appearance on the right side and bumpy texture on the wrong side. Stockinette is worked by alternating knit rows on the right side with purl rows on the wrong side when working flat, or by knitting every round when working in the round. The pattern also incorporates stitch markers to help track pattern repeats and shaping points, and uses stitch holders or scrap yarn to temporarily hold stitches for the sleeves and neckline sections during construction.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

Pine Shadows is designed to be worked in worsted weight yarn, specifically Nezinscot Farm Fibers Worsted Alpaca/Mohair/Wool blend. This natural fiber blend creates a soft, luxurious fabric suitable for a close-to-skin garment. Yardage requirements vary by size: the main color (cream) ranges from 830 yards for the smallest size to 1,390 yards for the largest size, while the contrast color (green) requires between 70 and 120 yards depending on size. The yarn is spun at 240 yards per 113 grams, providing good yardage for the weight.

Needles and Tools

The pattern requires US 7 (4.5 mm) circular needles measuring 32 inches or longer for the main knitting on the larger gauge, and US 6 (4.0 mm) circular needles of the same length for ribbing or other sections requiring a tighter gauge. Coordinating double-pointed needles (DPNs) are needed for working small circumferences like the turtleneck, though magic loop technique can be substituted if preferred. Additional notions include five stitch markers, stitch holders or scrap yarn for holding stitches, and a darning needle for weaving in yarn ends.

Gauge and Sizing

The pattern is worked to a gauge of 18 stitches and 24 rows equaling 4 inches (10 cm) in stockinette stitch on the larger US 7 needles when the finished fabric is blocked. Accurate gauge is essential for proper fit. The sweater shown in the pattern photos is size 36.5 inches with 2.5 inches of ease, meaning the finished bust measurement is 2.5 inches larger than the wearer's actual bust for comfortable wearing room. Six size options accommodate a wide range of body measurements from 32 inches to 50.75 inches finished bust.

Skill Level

Pine Shadows is rated as a beginner-level pattern, making it an excellent choice for knitters new to garment construction. The straightforward stockinette stitch combined with top-down construction allows beginners to learn fundamental sweater-building techniques while creating a wearable, finished garment. The pattern provides clear guidance for shaping and joining sections, supporting knitters through the construction process.