Sweater
A sweater is one of the most commonly knitted garments, and can be constructed in many ways: top-down, bottom-up, with raglan, set-in, or drop shoulder sleeves.
Explanation
The sweater is the flagship project for many knitters, and comes in countless variations of construction, pattern, and fit. You can choose between top-down or bottom-up construction, and between sleeve constructions like raglan, set-in sleeves, drop shoulder, or saddle shoulder. Choices around ease, yarn weight, and gauge affect both the look and how long the project takes. A sweater usually requires an accurate gauge swatch and size calculation, since incorrect gauge has the biggest impact on such a large garment.
Also known as: Jumper, Pullover
The parts and the constructions
A sweater consists of a body, two sleeves and a shoulder section, and it is the shoulder section that distinguishes the constructions: raglan, circular yoke, set-in sleeve, drop shoulder or saddle shoulder. The choice governs both fit and how demanding the garment is to knit.
Modern patterns are most often seamless and worked top-down, while traditional patterns are worked in pieces from the bottom up.
Choosing a size
Go by the schematic, not the size label. Compare the finished chest measurement with a sweater whose fit you already like, and pick the closest size.
Ease decides the rest: the same pattern can give a close-fitting or an oversized garment depending on which size you choose.
Common mistakes
- Choosing a size from body measurements without accounting for ease.
- Skipping the swatch on a garment that has to fit.
Keywords
- sweater
- knit a sweater
- jumper
Frequently asked questions
How much yarn should I buy for an adult sweater?
In DK weight for an adult, roughly 1100 to 1750 yards, more for an oversized fit. The pattern always gives a better estimate.
Which construction is easiest?
Drop shoulder, because it has no shoulder shaping. Raglan is next easiest and fits better.