Rippling Sands

Rippling Sands Knit Sweater by Annie Lupton

What is Being Made

Rippling Sands is a boxy, drop-shoulder pullover sweater designed by Annie Lupton of Boho Chic Fiber Co. The garment features a distinctive wavy texture inspired by the natural patterns left in sand at low tide. This intermediate-level knitting project is worked primarily in the round and comes in six sizes, with finished bust measurements ranging from 37 inches to 57 inches (94 to 145 centimeters), designed to fit with 4 to 8 inches of positive ease.

Construction Techniques

The sweater employs a strategic construction method that combines circular and flat knitting. The body is worked in the round from the bottom up, creating a seamless torso section. The top portion is then worked separately in flat knitting before the shoulders are seamed together using a three-needle bind-off technique, a professional finishing method that creates a strong, invisible seam. After the body is complete, the 3/4 length sleeves are picked up from the armhole and worked outward from the body, extending toward the cuff.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The pattern showcases two primary stitches:

• Bavarian Twisted Stitches: These specialized twisted stitches form the stunning wavy stitch pattern that gives Rippling Sands its signature textured appearance. The twisted stitch technique creates the rippling visual effect throughout the main body of the sweater. This stitch is worked at a gauge of 24 stitches and 28 rows over 4 inches when blocked.
• Stockinette Stitch: Used for the 3/4 sleeves, stockinette stitch provides a smooth, classic texture that contrasts with the textured body. The sleeve gauge is 20 stitches and 28 rows over 4 inches when blocked.

Materials and Tools

Rippling Sands is designed to be knit with Kelbourne Woolens Scout yarn in DK weight, a versatile yarn choice that works well for garments requiring both stitch definition and drape. The pattern calls for knitting needles appropriate for DK-weight yarn and circular knitting, though specific needle sizes are referenced in the complete pattern materials section. The combination of DK-weight yarn and the twisted stitch pattern creates excellent stitch definition, allowing the rippling texture to be clearly visible in the finished garment.