Iva

Iva Cable Yoke Sweater by Rita Maassen

What is Being Made

The Iva is a cable yoke sweater designed by Rita Maassen, a knitwear design from fashionworks by Rita Maassen Knitwear Design Studio. This pullover sweater features a distinctive cable-patterned yoke that transitions from the neckline down across the shoulders and upper chest. The design is available in six sizes ranging from XS to 2XL, with finished bust circumferences from 42 inches (108 cm) to 59 inches (150 cm). The sweater is designed to be worn with 5.5 to 6.5 inches of positive ease at the bust for a comfortable, relaxed fit.

Knitting Techniques

This intermediate-level knitting project employs several key techniques to create its signature look. The cable yoke construction is the primary design feature, requiring knitters to work cable stitches across the upper body. The pattern incorporates shaping through the body and sleeves to achieve a fitted silhouette that gradually widens from the lower body. Knitters will work in the round for portions of the sweater, transitioning between different stitch patterns as they move from the ribbed lower body through the cable yoke section. The design demonstrates intermediate skill requirements, making it suitable for knitters with foundational experience in cable work and garment shaping.

Stitches Used

• Cable stitches - featured prominently in the yoke design
• Ribbing - used for the lower body and cuff edges to create structure and elasticity
• Stockinette stitch - likely used for the body sections between patterned areas

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The Iva sweater is worked in sport weight yarn, specifically using Cloudborn Fibers Superwash Merino Sport Twist, which is composed of 100% Superwash Merino wool. This yarn choice provides a lightweight, breathable fabric suitable for layering or wearing as a standalone piece. Superwash treatment makes the finished sweater easy to care for, allowing machine washing without felting concerns. The sport weight classification means the yarn is thinner than worsted weight, creating a more refined drape and fitted appearance while still providing warmth. Knitters will need appropriately sized needles for sport weight yarn to achieve proper gauge and fabric structure as specified in the pattern instructions.

Design Details

The sweater features a lower circumference that is slightly smaller than the bust measurement, with lower body widths ranging from 37 inches (94 cm) to 52 inches (134 cm) across the six sizes. This shaping creates a more tailored fit through the torso. The cable yoke serves as both a visual focal point and a structural element, adding texture and visual interest to the upper body while the lower sections remain smooth. The pattern includes detailed schematics to help knitters understand all measurements and construction details before beginning their project.