Berroco Tess Jumper Knitting Pattern

Berroco Tess Knit Sweater Pattern

What is Being Made

The Berroco Tess is a women's knit sweater designed by Amy Christoffers, available in sizes X-Small through 3X. This intermediate-level knitting project produces a fitted pullover with a finished bust measurement ranging from 32 to 56 inches and a length between 24½ and 27 inches depending on size selection. The garment is designed with approximately 2 inches of ease for comfortable wearing.

Knitting Techniques Used

The Tess sweater employs several key construction techniques that define its structure and aesthetic appeal. The garment is worked flat on straight needles rather than in the round, allowing for a traditional seamed construction approach. The pieces are assembled using the seamed method, which creates clean, finished edges where the front, back, and sleeves join together. The pattern features bottom-up construction, meaning you begin knitting from the lower edge of the body and work upward toward the shoulders and neckline. An elegant lace stitch pattern is incorporated throughout the design, adding visual interest and a refined texture to the finished sweater.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

Two primary stitch patterns structure this design. The main fabric features an Eyelet Pattern, which creates the decorative lace effect characteristic of the sweater. This pattern is worked on the larger needles and achieves a gauge of 20 stitches and 24 rows over 4 inches. Complementing the lace sections is a Twisted Ribbing pattern, typically used for cuffs, waistbands, and neckline finishing. The Twisted Ribbing is worked on smaller needles and produces a gauge of 27 stitches and 29 rows over 4 inches, creating a more elastic and structured edge that helps the garment maintain its shape.

Materials and Yarn

The Tess sweater is knit using Berroco Modern Cotton, a yarn composed of 100% cotton in the colorway Point Judith. Yardage requirements vary by size, ranging from 5 hanks for the smallest size (X-Small) to 9 hanks for the largest size (3X). This cotton yarn provides breathability and a natural drape suitable for a lace-patterned sweater.

Needles and Tools

• Straight knitting needles in sizes 5 (3.75 mm) and 7 (4.50 mm) for working the flat pieces
• 24-inch circular knitting needle in size 5 (3.75 mm) for neckline and ribbed sections
• A stitch holder for securing stitches temporarily during construction
• Two ¾-inch buttons for closure details

Gauge and Fit Considerations

Achieving proper gauge is essential for this pattern's success. Knitters should verify their gauge before beginning: 20 stitches and 24 rows equals 4 inches in the Eyelet Pattern on size 7 needles, while 27 stitches and 29 rows equals 4 inches in the Twisted Ribbing on size 5 needles. The pattern includes detailed sizing information with finished measurements for seven different sizes, allowing knitters to select the appropriate size based on desired finished bust measurement rather than body measurements alone.