Anka Pullover Knitting Pattern

Anka Pullover in Berroco Aerial

What is Being Made

The Anka Pullover is an intermediate-level knitted garment designed by Alison Green. This pullover is available in nine sizes, ranging from 35½ inches to 71½ inches in bust circumference, with finished lengths between 18½ and 22½ inches. The pattern is shown in size 43½ inches with approximately 2–4 inches of positive ease for a comfortable, relaxed fit.

Construction Techniques

The Anka Pullover employs a seamless, top-down construction method worked primarily in the round. The garment is knitted in the round to the underarms, then divided for separate front and back sections. Sleeves are picked up from the armholes and worked downward in the round to completion. This construction approach minimizes seaming and creates a smooth, professional finish.

A notable technique throughout this pattern is working yarn double, meaning two strands of yarn are held together as one throughout the entire project. This doubling technique affects gauge, stitch definition, and the final fabric weight and drape. When binding off, the pattern instructs knitters to work on the right side and bind off very loosely overall to maintain elasticity and prevent a tight neckline or cuff edge.

Stitches Used

The Anka Pullover features two primary stitch patterns:

• Pattern Stitch: A textured stitch pattern worked over 24 stitches per repeat. Gauge for this stitch is 2 pattern repeats (24 stitches) measuring 5½ inches in width, with 31 rows equaling 4 inches in height when worked with yarn held double.
• Stockinette Stitch: Used in sections of the garment, with a gauge of 20 stitches and 31 rounds equaling 4 inches when worked with yarn held double.

All gauge measurements are taken after blocking, which is essential for accurate sizing and proper fabric characteristics.

Materials: Yarn and Needles

Yarn: The Anka Pullover is designed to be knitted with Berroco Aerial, a yarn produced by Berroco, Inc. The pattern calls for 5 to 9 balls of Berroco Aerial (25 grams per ball) depending on size, in colorway #3433 Copper. The yarn is held double throughout the entire project, which means the actual yardage requirement is effectively doubled from the single-strand yardage.

Needles and Notions: The pattern requires a 32-inch circular needle in size 6 (4 mm) for working the body in the round. Additionally, one set of double-pointed needles or preferred needles for working small circumferences in size 6 (4 mm) are needed for the sleeves. Five stitch markers are required to track pattern repeats and construction sections, with one marker in a different color to mark the beginning of round. A tapestry needle is needed for weaving in ends, and waste yarn is used to hold stitches during construction.

The pattern emphasizes that gauge should be checked carefully before beginning, as accurate gauge is essential for proper fit. Knitters are advised to use the specific Berroco Aerial yarn called for in the instructions to ensure the best results.