Happiness Is

Happiness Is Knit Sweater by Alicia Plum

Garment Overview

Happiness Is is a beginner-friendly knit sweater designed by independent designer Alicia Plum. This downloadable PDF pattern creates a beautifully proportioned pullover sweater inspired by the natural beauty of sand and ocean, featuring a meditative design philosophy that celebrates mindfulness and wonder. The sweater is worked in soft, breathable DK-weight yarn and offers multiple size options to fit a range of body types.

Sizing and Finished Measurements

This pattern includes eight size options with finished chest circumferences ranging from 33.25 inches (84.5 cm) to 61.25 inches (156 cm). The available sizes are: 33.25" (37.25", 41.25", 45.25") [49.25", 53.25", 57.25", 61.25"]. This comprehensive size range accommodates both children and adults, from petite to plus-size proportions.

Yarn and Materials

Happiness Is is designed to be worked in Lakes Yarn & Fiber Hayden DK, a premium yarn composed of 100% merino wool. Each skein provides 280 yards (256 meters) per 4 ounces. Yardage requirements vary by size: smaller sizes require 3 skeins of Heartwood Indigo, while larger sizes need up to 6 skeins. The merino content ensures the finished sweater will be soft, breathable, and temperature-regulating—ideal for layering or wearing as a standalone piece.

Needles and Notions

• Larger needles: US 8/5.0 mm for working the main body in stockinette stitch
• Smaller needles: US 6/4.0 mm for ribbed edgings and cuffs
• Optional shaping needles: US 7/4.5 mm for optional waist shaping
• Notions: Darning needle for weaving in yarn ends

Gauge and Tension

The pattern is worked to a gauge of 18 stitches and 28 rounds over 4 inches (10 cm) when measured in stockinette stitch on the larger US 8/5.0 mm needles. Achieving proper gauge is essential for obtaining the correct finished measurements, so knitters are encouraged to knit and measure a gauge swatch before beginning the project.

Knitting Techniques and Stitches

Happiness Is employs fundamental knitting techniques suitable for beginner to early-intermediate knitters. The sweater is primarily constructed using stockinette stitch, the most basic and versatile knit stitch, which creates a smooth, flat fabric with a V-shaped texture on the right side. This stitch is worked in the round, which eliminates the need for seaming and creates a seamless, professional finish.

Ribbed edgings are used at the cuffs, neckline, and hem to provide elasticity and structure. Ribbing is created by alternating knit and purl stitches in vertical columns, which creates a stretchy, form-fitting edge that helps the sweater maintain its shape during wear and washing.

The pattern includes optional waist shaping using US 7/4.5 mm needles, allowing knitters to customize the fit by creating subtle decreases and increases that define the waistline. This feature adds versatility for different body types and personal style preferences.

Pattern Difficulty and Skill Level

Classified as a beginner-level pattern, Happiness Is is accessible to knitters new to garment construction. The straightforward stockinette stitch and simple shaping make this an ideal first sweater project. The pattern's meditative design philosophy encourages knitters to slow down and enjoy the rhythmic, calming nature of the craft while creating a wearable piece of art.

Design Inspiration

The sweater's design draws inspiration from the natural world—specifically the soft, neutral tones found in sand at the ocean's edge. The color palette references pale lilacs, pure whites, clean taupes, and indigo blues, evoking a sense of wonder and mindfulness. This thematic approach transforms a simple garment into a meditation on beauty and perception.