Pattern of the Week: Beatrice Sweater
Editor Hannah Baker likes to call the Beatrice Sweater “The perfect knitscene project.” When asked what that means, she elaborates, “It has an easy approach, but there is still some unique quality about it.” In this case, that easy approach lies within the stockinette stitch that makes up the bulk of this garment. But what sets it apart? The lace inset found at the hem of the sweater.
In the Beatrice Sweater, designer Lana Jois uses lace to highlight an asymmetrical hemline. At first glance, this sweater has a classic silhouette. But a style surprise awaits with a lace inset panel that is knit first, then set aside. The body is then worked flat from the bottom up to make the side vent, and then the work is joined in the round, at the same time joining the lace panel with the body.
The lace splash enables this pullover to break away from the stockinette that defines most of its construction. And if you are a lover of layers like me, why not knit the lace panel in another color to simply accentuate the whimsy of this design? After taking a look at Valley Yarns Northhampton at WEBS, I’m leaning toward the pictured color of Rust paired with a lace panel in the rich Amethyst option. Which colors would you pair together for the Beatrice Sweater?
Get to stitching now and you’ll have a fresh fall go-to pullover in no time. That is, if you can choose just one project from this absolutely stunning issue of knitscene. It is simply packed full of rich autumn colors and thoughtful designs, a foundation on which to build a handmade wardrobe that is both adaptable and striking.
Pattern Details
DESIGNER Lana Jois
DIFFICULTY Intermediate
FINISHED SIZE 34 (38½, 42¼, 46, 50, 53¾)” bust circumference. Pullover shown measures 38½”; modeled with 3½” of positive ease.
YARN Valley Yarns Northampton (100% wool; 247 yd [226 m]/3½ oz [100 g]): #47 rust, 4 (5, 5, 6, 6, 7) balls. Yarn distributed by WEBS.
NEEDLES Size 7 (4.5 mm): 16″ and 32″ circular (cir) and set of double-pointed (dpn). Size 6 (4 mm): 16″ cir and set of dpn. Adjust needle size if necessary to obtain the correct gauge.
NOTIONS Markers (m); stitch holders; tapestry needle.
GAUGE 17 sts and 24 rnds = 4″ in St st on larger needle; 17 sts and 22 rows = 4″ in lace patt on larger needle.
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