Arbus Pullover Knitting Pattern

Arbus Pullover in Berroco Millstone Tweed

What is Being Made

The Arbus Pullover is a classic knitted sweater designed by Alison Green, offered in nine size options ranging from 38½" to 69½" bust circumference. This intermediate-level pullover features a traditional crewneck construction with a back length that is 1" longer than the front, creating a subtle high-low hem. The finished garment is shown in size 42½" with approximately 4–8" of positive ease for comfortable wear.

Knitting Techniques Used

This pullover employs several fundamental knitting techniques suitable for intermediate crafters. The construction utilizes circular needle knitting for seamless construction, allowing the body to be worked in the round. The pattern incorporates stitch increases (M1 increases) strategically placed during ribbed sections to shape the garment. Charted colorwork or texture patterns are integrated into the design, with three separate charts providing stitch-by-stitch guidance for patterned sections. The neckline is worked using small circumference knitting techniques with double-pointed needles or preferred small-circle needles. Blocking is essential to achieve accurate finished measurements and proper gauge.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The Arbus Pullover features multiple stitch patterns worked throughout the design. Stockinette stitch (St st) forms the primary fabric base, providing a smooth, classic knit surface. Ribbing is used for structural elements, including the cuffs and neckline, creating elasticity and a fitted finish. The pattern includes three distinct charted sections:

• Chart 1: A 6-stitch repeat measuring 1¼" wide
• Chart 2: A 10-stitch repeat measuring 1¾" wide
• Chart 3: A 22-stitch repeat measuring 3¾" wide

These charts guide the placement of textured or colorwork elements throughout the pullover body and sleeves.

Materials: Yarn, Needles, and Notions

Yarn: The Arbus Pullover is designed specifically for Berroco Millstone Tweed, a worsted-weight yarn. The pattern calls for 10 to 18 balls (depending on size) of Berroco Millstone Tweed in colorway #11126 Slate, with each ball weighing 50 grams. This yarn choice provides a tweedy texture and durability suitable for everyday wear.

Needles: The pattern requires multiple needle sizes and types to accommodate different sections. Circular needles in sizes 7 (4.5 mm) and 8 (5 mm) are needed—specifically, 32" circular needles for the main body work and a 16" circular needle in size 7 for neckline ribbing. Double-pointed needles or preferred small-circumference needles in both sizes 7 and 8 are used for working the neckline and finishing details.

Notions and Accessories: Additional supplies include stitch markers (with one in a contrasting color to mark the beginning of round), a tapestry needle for weaving in ends and seaming, and waste yarn for holding stitches during construction.

Gauge and Sizing

Achieving proper gauge is critical for this project. The pattern specifies a gauge of 16 stitches and 24 rows or rounds per 4" (10 cm) in stockinette stitch using the larger (size 8 / 5 mm) needles, measured after blocking. The three charted sections have their own specific width measurements: Chart 1 spans 1¼" across 6 stitches, Chart 2 measures 1¾" across 10 stitches, and Chart 3 spans 3¾" across 22 stitches. Taking time to check gauge before beginning ensures accurate finished measurements and proper fit.