Berroco Sandbells Jumper Knitting Pattern

Berroco Sandbells Knit Sweater

What is Being Made

The Sandbells is a women's knit sweater designed by Emily Nora O'Neil, available in seven sizes ranging from X-Small through 3X. This intermediate-level garment is constructed to fit bust sizes from 30 inches through 54 inches, with finished bust measurements between 40 and 64 inches. The sweater features approximately 10 inches of ease built into the design, making it a relaxed, comfortable fit suitable for layering or wearing as a standalone piece. The finished length ranges from 35½ inches in the smallest size to 38 inches in the largest size, providing a standard sweater silhouette.

Techniques Used

The Sandbells sweater employs a bottom-up construction method, meaning the garment is knit starting from the lower edge and working upward toward the neckline. The pieces are worked flat on straight needles rather than in the round, allowing for traditional row-by-row knitting. Once all pieces are completed, the sweater is finished using the seamed construction technique, where individual panels are sewn together to create the finished garment. The design incorporates lace patterning throughout, adding visual interest and texture to the sweater.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The primary stitch pattern in the Sandbells is worked from a charted pattern, which provides a visual representation of the lace design. The gauge for the charted pattern is established at 19 stitches and 30 rows over 4 inches, making accurate gauge checking essential before beginning the project. Knitters are strongly advised to knit a gauge swatch in the charted pattern to ensure their finished sweater meets the intended measurements, as individual knitting tension can significantly affect the final size.

Materials and Tools

The Sandbells requires Berroco Indigo yarn in colorway #6410, with yardage requirements varying by size. The X-Small size calls for 5 hanks, progressing to 9 hanks for the 3X size, with each hank weighing 100 grams. The pattern specifies size 5 (3.75 mm) knitting needles for construction, including a pair of straight needles for working the flat pieces and a 24-inch circular needle. Two stitch markers are needed to track pattern repeats and shaping throughout the knitting process. Knitters should verify their needle size produces the correct gauge before casting on, as gauge variations may require needle adjustments.