Upper West Sweater

Upper West Sweater by Thea Colman

Garment Overview

The Upper West Sweater is an intermediate-level knitted pullover designed by BabyCocktails (Thea Colman). This sweater features a sophisticated blend of stitch patterns and is available in eight sizes ranging from 37.25 inches to 77.25 inches in finished bust circumference. The design is intended to be worn with 4 to 6 inches of positive ease for a comfortable, contemporary fit.

Stitch Patterns and Techniques

This sweater showcases multiple knitting techniques to create visual interest and texture. The primary stitch patterns include:

• Stockinette stitch for the main body fabric, providing a smooth, classic knit surface
• Cable pattern as a featured design element, adding dimension and traditional texture
• 1x1 ribbing for the collar and sleeve cuffs, ensuring a snug, elastic finish at openings

The sweater employs cable knitting techniques, which require the use of a cable needle to create twisted, rope-like textures. This intermediate-level construction method adds complexity and visual appeal to the finished garment.

Gauge and Needle Requirements

Achieving proper gauge is essential for this pattern. The sweater specifies three different gauges depending on the stitch pattern being worked:

• 20 stitches and 28 rows per 4 inches in stockinette stitch on larger needles
• 22 stitches and 28 rows per 4 inches in cable pattern on larger needles
• 22 stitches and 28 rows per 4 inches in 1x1 ribbing on smaller needles

The pattern calls for US #7 (4.5mm) needles as the primary needle size and US #6 (4mm) needles for ribbed sections. Long circular needles are recommended for knitting the body in the round, while shorter circular needles are suggested for the collar and sleeve cuffs. The smaller needle size is used exclusively for sleeve cuff ribbing.

Yarn and Materials

The Upper West Sweater is designed to be worked in De Rerum Natura Gilliatt, a premium 100% Merino wool yarn. Each skein contains 273 yards (250 meters) and weighs 3.5 ounces (100 grams). The sweater shown in the pattern is worked in the Caramel colorway. Yardage requirements vary by size, ranging from 1100 yards for the smallest size to 1900 yards for the largest size.

Additional notions required include stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats, a cable needle for cable work, a darning needle for finishing seams and weaving in ends, and waste yarn or stitch holders for securing stitches during construction.

Pattern Format

This is a downloadable PDF pattern offered by independent designer BabyCocktails. The pattern provides comprehensive sizing information and detailed instructions suitable for knitters with intermediate experience who are comfortable working with cable stitches and garment shaping techniques.