Holly

Holly Sweater by Marie Wallin

What is Being Made

Holly is an advanced-level knitted sweater designed by Marie Wallin from the WILDWOOD collection. This pullover garment is available in five sizes ranging from Small (to fit bust 81-86 cm / 32-34 in) through XXL (to fit bust 122-127 cm / 48-50 in), making it suitable for a wide range of body measurements.

Techniques Used

This design employs patterned stockinette stitch as its primary construction method, combined with ribbed edging for structure and elasticity. The sweater features a multi-color intarsia or Fair Isle approach, incorporating ten distinct yarn colors to create the Holly design. The pattern begins with ribbed cuffs and waistband sections worked in 1x1 rib (alternating knit and purl stitches), which provides shape retention and a professional finish.

Stitches Used

• 1x1 Ribbing: Used for the initial cast-on and ribbed sections, creating vertical columns of texture that provide stretch and recovery
• Stockinette Stitch: The primary fabric construction, worked over patterned sections using the main needle size
• Patterned Stockinette Stitch: Stockinette worked with color changes to create the Holly motif

Materials and Tools

Holly is worked in 4-ply yarn weight, a lightweight yet durable choice that creates refined drape and stitch definition. The pattern uses two needle sizes: 2¾mm (US 2) needles for the ribbed sections, and 3¼mm (US 3) needles for the main patterned stockinette fabric. This needle size differential is a standard technique to ensure ribbed edges remain elastic and neat while the body fabric achieves the correct gauge.

The yarn palette consists of ten colors from Marie Wallin's British Breeds collection, each supplied in 25-gram balls. The colors are: Raw (yarn A, the primary color requiring 7-11 balls depending on size), Chestnut (B), Eau de Nil (C), Wood (D), Mallard (E), Quince (F), Dark Apple (G), Mulberry (H), Lime Flower (I), Russet (J), and Rose (K). Smaller quantities of the accent colors are required, typically one ball per size for most shades, with some colors requiring two balls in larger sizes.

Gauge and Finished Dimensions

The pattern specifies a tension of 28 stitches and 29 rows to 10 centimeters measured over patterned stockinette stitch using the 3¼mm (US 3) needles. Achieving correct gauge is essential for this advanced project, as it ensures the finished garment meets the intended bust measurements and proportions. The back panel measures approximately 48-72 centimeters in length depending on size selection.

This downloadable PDF pattern from independent designer Marie Wallin provides comprehensive instructions for creating a sophisticated, multi-colored knitted sweater suitable for advanced knitters with experience in color work and garment shaping.