Winter River

Winter River Knitted Sweater by Verena Cohrs

What is Being Made

Winter River is a knitted sweater design created by independent designer Verena Cohrs. This pullover sweater is available in eight sizes, with finished bust circumferences ranging from 80 cm (31.5") to 137 cm (54"), making it suitable for a wide range of body types. The pattern recommends wearing the sweater with 0 to 10 cm (0 to 4") of positive ease for a comfortable, relaxed fit. The design is shown in the colorway Hummingbird and is intended as a beginner-friendly knitting project.

Techniques Used

Winter River employs several fundamental knitting techniques suitable for knitters developing their skills. The sweater is worked in the round, a method that creates seamless fabric and eliminates the need for seaming pieces together. This technique is particularly valued for creating smooth, professional-looking garments. The pattern also incorporates short rows, a shaping technique that allows the designer to create custom fit and contours without increasing or decreasing stitches in the traditional manner. Short rows are strategically placed to enhance the garment's structure and comfort.

Stitches Used

The Winter River sweater utilizes two primary stitch patterns:

• Stockinette Stitch worked in the round, which creates the smooth, classic V-textured fabric that forms the main body of the sweater. This stitch is created by knitting every round, producing an even, refined appearance ideal for showcasing yarn color and texture.
• 1x1 Rib worked in the round, alternating knit and purl stitches in a multiple of 2 stitches. Ribbing is used for cuffs, hems, and necklines, where its natural elasticity creates a snug, stretchy finish that hugs the body and prevents rolling.

Materials: Yarn and Needles

The Winter River pattern calls for Juniper Moon Farm Moonshine, a worsted-weight yarn composed of 40% alpaca, 40% wool, and 20% silk. This luxurious fiber blend offers softness, warmth, and subtle sheen. The yardage requirements vary by size: Size 1 requires 895 metres (979 yards), while Size 8 requires 1,655 metres (1,810 yards). The recommended gauge is 20 stitches by 26 rows over 10 by 10 cm (approximately 8 stitches per inch) when worked in the round in Stockinette Stitch. While specific needle sizes are not detailed in the provided content, knitters should select needles appropriate to achieve this gauge with the chosen yarn, typically in a circular needle format suitable for working in the round.

Additional Notions and Tools

Beyond yarn and needles, the Winter River pattern requires standard knitting notions: a darning needle for weaving in ends, stitch markers to track pattern repeats and shaping points, and either scrap yarn or a stitch holder for securing stitches during construction. Blocking tools are listed as optional, though blocking is recommended to even out the finished fabric and set the garment's final dimensions.