Bubala

Bubala Cabled Pullover Sweater by Linda Marveng

What Is Being Made

Bubala is a sophisticated cabled pullover sweater designed by independent designer Linda Marveng. The garment features a distinctive deep v-neck that offers versatile styling—it can be worn on the front or back—creating visual interest through split cable detailing. The name Bubala derives from Yiddish, meaning "close to one's heart," reflecting the sweater's intimate, wearable design. This pullover combines classic cable knit aesthetics with contemporary construction techniques, offering nine sizes ranging from XS to 5XL to accommodate various body types and preferences.

Design Features and Construction

The sweater's primary design element centers on cable stitching that splits at the deep v-neck, creating two distinct single cables that flow down the front of the garment. These same single cables are repeated on the sleeves for cohesive visual continuity. Bobbles are incorporated throughout the design, adding textural dimension and playful detail to the overall aesthetic. Ribbing frames the cables along the sides of the sweater, serving both functional and aesthetic purposes—the ribbing creates a figure-hugging silhouette that enhances the wearer's shape while providing structural integrity to the garment.

Knitting Techniques and Stitches

Bubala employs intermediate to experienced-level knitting techniques appropriate for knitters with solid foundational skills. The primary stitches used include:

• Cable stitches – the signature design element that requires crossing groups of stitches to create the twisted, rope-like texture
• Bobble stitches – decorative raised bumps created by increasing and decreasing within the same stitch area, adding textural contrast
• Ribbing – typically knit and purl combinations that frame the cables and provide elasticity and shaping
• I-cord bind-off – a specialized finishing technique used at the v-neck that creates a neat, durable, and decorative edge

The construction method involves knitting the sweater pieces and assembling them, with careful attention to aligning the cable patterns across the front, sleeves, and body sections. The deep v-neck requires precise shaping and the application of the I-cord bind-off technique to achieve a polished, professional finish.

Materials: Yarn and Needles

Bubala is knitted in Sølje pelt wool, a premium yarn produced by Hillesvåg Ullvarefabrikk, a Norwegian wool manufacturer known for quality fiber production. This yarn is described as "bouncy," indicating excellent elasticity and loft—characteristics that make it ideal for showcasing cable and bobble stitches while providing comfort and durability. The pattern specifies 4-ply yarn weight, a medium-weight yarn that balances stitch definition with reasonable knitting speed and fabric drape. While specific needle sizes are not detailed in the provided content, 4-ply yarn typically works well with needles in the US 6–8 range, though the pattern instructions would specify the exact needle size required for proper gauge.

Sizing and Finished Measurements

The pattern accommodates nine sizes with the following finished bust measurements: XS (85 cm / 33.5"), S (92 cm / 36"), M (99 cm / 39"), L (106 cm / 41.75"), XL (113 cm / 44.5"), 2XL (123 cm / 48.5"), 3XL (133 cm / 52.5"), 4XL (143 cm / 56.5"), and 5XL (153 cm / 60"). Length measurements range from 61–69 cm (24–27"), with sleeve lengths between 48–50 cm (19–19.75"). The pattern includes intended ease of +5–7 cm (2–2.75"), meaning the finished garment will be slightly larger than the wearer's actual measurements for comfortable, relaxed wear.

Skill Level and Craftsmanship

Bubala is designated as an experienced-level project, making it suitable for knitters who have completed multiple garments and are comfortable with cable manipulation, bobble construction, and seamless or seamed assembly. The combination of cables, bobbles, shaping, and the specialized I-cord bind-off finish requires attention to detail and solid technical knowledge. This is an excellent project for advancing knitters seeking to refine their skills while creating a beautiful, heirloom-quality garment.