Palermo

Palermo Knitted Sweater by Pat Menchini

What is Being Made

The Palermo is an intermediate-level knitted sweater designed by Pat Menchini. This downloadable PDF pattern provides instructions for creating a classic pullover sweater available in six different sizes, ranging from chest measurements of 81-86 cm (32-34 inches) up to 132-137 cm (52-54 inches). The finished sweater features an actual chest measurement of 97 cm (38¼ inches) at the smallest size, with proportionally larger measurements for each subsequent size.

Knitting Techniques and Construction

The Palermo sweater employs fundamental knitting techniques suitable for knitters with intermediate experience. The garment is constructed using standard sweater-making methods, including separate pieces that are knitted flat and then assembled. The pattern requires careful attention to shaping, particularly at the armholes and shoulders, as indicated by the inclusion of stitch holders for managing stitches during construction. The sweater features set-in sleeves with varying sleeve seam lengths depending on size, ranging from 44 cm (17½ inches) to 48 cm (19 inches).

Stitches Used

The primary stitch used throughout the Palermo is stockinette stitch (st st), which creates a smooth, classic fabric with characteristic V-shaped columns on the right side. This fundamental knit stitch is worked over the majority of the sweater body and sleeves, providing a clean, professional finish suitable for a versatile wardrobe piece.

Materials Required

The Palermo pattern specifies high-quality cotton yarns that provide breathability and drape:

• Rico-Design Creative Cotton Zickzack DK: The primary yarn, available at 117 metres (127 yards) per 50g ball. Yardage requirements range from 9 to 13 balls of 50g depending on the chosen size, with shade A specified for the main color.
• Rico-Design Essentials Cotton DK: A contrasting yarn used for accent details, available at 130 metres (142 yards) per 50g ball. One 50g ball of shade B is required for all sizes.
• Knitting Needles: Two pairs of needles are needed—3.25 mm (UK 10, US 3) needles and 4 mm (UK 8, US 6) needles. The pattern uses needle sizes to create gauge changes, typically employing the smaller needles for ribbed edges and the larger needles for the main stockinette stitch fabric.
• Stitch Holders: Two stitch holders are required for temporarily securing stitches during neckline and armhole shaping.

Gauge and Tension

Achieving the correct tension is critical for this pattern. The specified gauge is 20 stitches and 28 rows to 10 cm (4 inches) over stockinette stitch using the Rico-Design Creative Cotton Zickzack yarn. Knitters are advised to knit a tension swatch before beginning the project to ensure their finished sweater matches the intended measurements. The pattern notes that yarn and color availability may change, and recommends selecting replacement yarns that match the stated tension to maintain the sweater's proportions and fit.