Berroco Aldrich Jumper Knitting Pattern

Berroco Aldrich Knit Sweater

What is Being Made

The Aldrich is a top-down knit sweater designed by Amy Christoffers, available in nine sizes ranging from 34" to 62" bust measurements. This intermediate-level knitting project creates a finished garment with a length of 20" to 23" down the center front, depending on size selection. The sweater is shown in size 38" in the pattern photography.

Construction Technique

The Aldrich sweater is constructed using a top-down seamless method, worked primarily in the round. The garment begins with the yoke, which is worked in one piece in the round up to the underarms. At that point, the yoke is divided to create the body and sleeves as separate sections. The neck shaping is accomplished using short rows, a technique that creates gradual increases in stitch count to shape the neckline. The body continues in the round down to the hem, then is divided for separate back and front pieces if needed. Both sleeves are worked in the round from the yoke division down to the lower edge of the cuffs.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The primary stitch used throughout the Aldrich is stockinette stitch (St st), which creates a smooth, classic fabric. The yoke features a ribbed setup that alternates knit and purl stitches (K1, P1 rib), providing elasticity and structure at the neckline and upper body. The ribbing helps the sweater maintain its shape and provides a comfortable, fitted finish at the neck opening.

Yarn and Materials

The Aldrich pattern calls for Berroco Ultra Wool Chunky yarn, a worsted-weight option that knits quickly due to its substantial fiber content. The pattern requires 5 to 9 balls of yarn depending on the size selected, with each ball weighing 100 grams. The color shown in the pattern is #43118 Marjoram. This yarn choice contributes to the sweater's structure and drape.

Needles and Notions

The Aldrich requires multiple needle sizes to accommodate different sections of the garment. Circular needles in sizes 8 (5.00 mm) and 10 (6.00 mm) are used, with both 16" and 24" (or longer) lengths needed for working the body in the round. An optional smaller circular needle in size 5 (3.75 mm) is recommended for a tubular cast-on method, which creates a professional, finished edge. One set of double-pointed needles in both sizes 8 and 10 are required for working the sleeves in the round. Additional notions include four stitch markers—with one in a contrasting color to mark the beginning of each round—and waste yarn to hold stitches temporarily during construction.

Gauge and Fit

The pattern specifies a gauge of 14 stitches and 20 rows over 4 inches in stockinette stitch on the larger needle (size 10). Achieving the correct gauge is essential for obtaining accurate finished measurements. The pattern recommends 2 to 4 inches of positive ease, meaning the finished bust measurement should be slightly larger than the wearer's actual bust for comfortable movement and a relaxed fit.