Berroco Delany Jumper Knitting Pattern

Berroco Delany Sweater by Norah Gaughan

What is Being Made

The Berroco Delany is a seamless, top-down knit sweater designed by renowned knitwear designer Norah Gaughan. This intermediate-level garment features a distinctive collar detail and is available in eight sizes to fit bust measurements from 30 inches up to 54 inches. The sweater is shown in size 34 inches with approximately 2 inches of positive ease built into the design. The finished bust measurement ranges from 32 inches to 56 inches depending on size selected, with center back length varying from 21½ inches to 25½ inches across the size range.

Construction Techniques

The Delany sweater is constructed using seamless, top-down methodology, meaning the garment is worked in the round from the neckline downward. This approach eliminates the need for seaming and creates a smooth, continuous fabric. The top-down construction method allows knitters to try on the garment as it progresses and easily adjust the length to personal preference before binding off.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The primary stitch used throughout the body of the Delany is stockinette stitch (abbreviated st st), which creates a smooth, classic knit fabric with a distinctive V-pattern appearance on the right side. The collar features a knit and purl ribbed pattern worked in a two-stitch repeat (p2, k2 ribbing), which provides elasticity and structure to the neckline. The collar is divided into right and left forks that are worked separately, with the pattern instructions specifying alternating knit and purl rows to create the textured ribbed effect. This ribbed collar detail adds visual interest and helps the neckline maintain its shape.

Materials and Yarn

The Delany is designed to be knitted with Berroco Blackstone Tweed in color 2603. The yardage requirements vary by size, ranging from 8 balls for the smallest size up to 15 balls for the largest size, with each ball weighing 50 grams. The pattern calls for two circular knitting needles in different sizes: a size 5 (3.75mm) needle and a size 7 (4.5mm) needle, or whatever size is needed to obtain the correct gauge. Additional notions include a stitch holder for holding stitches during construction and stitch markers to track pattern repeats and shaping points.

Gauge and Fit

The specified gauge for this pattern is 18 stitches and 25 rows over 4 inches when working stockinette stitch using the larger (size 7/4.5mm) needles. Achieving the correct gauge is essential for obtaining the intended finished measurements and proper fit. The pattern accommodates a range of body sizes with eight different size options, making it accessible to a wide variety of knitters.