Alice in Bloom

Alice in Bloom Sweater by Kim Firth

What is Being Made

Alice in Bloom is a top-down, seamless knit sweater designed by Kim Firth for High Fibre Shop. This intermediate-level garment features a striking colourwork yoke that serves as the focal point of the design. The sweater offers versatile styling options with three-quarter length sleeves that can be customized by cuffing them for just above the elbow short sleeves. The body can be finished with either a ribbed or plain construction, allowing knitters to choose their preferred aesthetic and fit.

Construction Technique

This sweater employs a top-down, seamless construction method, which means knitting begins at the neckline and progresses downward toward the hem. This approach offers several advantages for the knitter, including the ability to try on the garment during the knitting process and the flexibility to adjust length as needed. The seamless construction eliminates the need for seaming, resulting in a smooth, comfortable finish that is ideal for a garment worn close to the body.

Stitches and Colourwork

The defining feature of Alice in Bloom is its colourwork yoke, which creates visual interest and dimension at the shoulders and upper chest. The yoke transitions from the colorwork pattern to the body section, which can be worked in either ribbed or stockinette stitch depending on the knitter's preference. The ribbed option provides stretch and a fitted silhouette, while the plain body offers a smoother, more relaxed drape.

Sizing and Fit

Alice in Bloom is available in ten sizes ranging from extra small to extra large:

• Sizes A, B, C, D: Finished bust circumference 35.25" to 40.75" (89.5 cm to 103.5 cm)
• Sizes E, F, G: Finished bust circumference 43.25" to 47.5" (110 cm to 121 cm)
• Sizes H, I, J: Finished bust circumference 49.5" to 53.75" (125.5 cm to 136.5 cm)

The pattern includes a detailed schematic on page 6 with comprehensive measurements for all dimensions. The ribbed waist is designed to fit with zero ease when worn, providing a defined silhouette at the natural waistline.

Yarn and Materials

Alice in Bloom is suitable for knitting with 3-ply, 4-ply, and lace weight yarns, offering flexibility in fiber choice and final garment drape. The specific yardage requirements and needle sizes are detailed within the full pattern. The yarn weight options allow knitters to customize the finished fabric density and overall weight of the sweater to suit their climate and personal preferences.

Skill Level

Rated as an intermediate difficulty pattern, Alice in Bloom is suitable for knitters with foundational experience in basic stitches and techniques. The colourwork yoke requires familiarity with stranded colorwork or jacquard knitting methods, making this pattern an excellent project for advancing knitting skills.

Pattern Format

Alice in Bloom is available as a downloadable PDF from High Fibre Shop, making it immediately accessible for digital devices and home printing. This format allows knitters to reference the pattern easily during the knitting process.