Kettlecorn Sweater

Kettlecorn Sweater by Knitatude - Chantal

What Is Being Made

The Kettlecorn Sweater is a fitted, crew-neck pullover designed to provide warmth while maintaining a flattering silhouette. This intermediate-level knitting project creates a cozy garment described as "a little bit sweet and a little bit salty," combining comfort with a shape-conscious fit. The sweater is available in three sizes: Small, Medium, and Large, with finished dimensions ranging from 13.5 inches to 19 inches in width when laid flat.

Finished Dimensions

• Width (laid flat): 13.5 inches/34 cm (S), 16 inches/41 cm (M), 19 inches/48 cm (L)
• Length: 24.5 inches/62 cm (S), 25.5 inches/67 cm (M), 27.5 inches/70 cm (L)
• Arm length: 20 inches/51 cm (all sizes)
• Arm width at shoulder (laid flat): 7 inches/18 cm (S, M), 9 inches/23 cm (L)
• Arm width at wrist (laid flat): 4 inches/10 cm (S, M), 5 inches/12 cm (L)

Knitting Techniques

This pattern is worked in the round using circular needles, a technique that creates seamless fabric and allows for continuous knitting without turning the work. The sweater construction involves working the body and sleeves in a coordinated manner, with finishing accomplished using the three-needle bind-off method, which creates a strong, flexible seam ideal for joining shoulder edges.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The primary stitch pattern used throughout the Kettlecorn Sweater is Double Seed Stitch, a textured stitch that alternates knit and purl stitches in a two-row repeat. This stitch creates a bumpy, reversible fabric with excellent elasticity and drape, making it ideal for fitted garments. The Double Seed Stitch also provides visual interest and helps the sweater maintain its shape while hugging the body.

Yarn and Materials

The Kettlecorn Sweater requires aran weight yarn, a medium-weight yarn category that knits at a moderate gauge for balanced fabric density. The pattern calls for 5 balls (6 balls, 6 balls) of We Are Knitters Meriwool, totaling approximately 745 yards/681 meters (892 yards/816 meters) depending on size selection. Meriwool is a wool-based yarn suitable for warm, durable knitwear.

Needles and Notions

• Circular needles: US 11/8 mm, 24 inches/60 cm long for working the body in the round
• Double-pointed needles (DPN): 1 x US 11/8 mm for the three-needle bind-off
• Stitch markers: 2 pieces to mark pattern repeats and construction points
• Darning needle: For weaving in yarn ends
• Scissors: For cutting yarn

Gauge

The pattern is worked at a gauge of 12 stitches by 18 rows equals 4 inches in Double Seed Stitch. Achieving the correct gauge is essential for obtaining the finished dimensions listed, as variations in gauge will directly affect the size and fit of the completed sweater.

Difficulty Level

Rated as intermediate, the Kettlecorn Sweater is suitable for knitters with foundational skills who are comfortable working in the round on circular needles and executing techniques such as the three-needle bind-off. The Double Seed Stitch pattern, while textured, follows a straightforward two-row repeat that becomes intuitive with practice.