Berroco Garnet Star Jumper Knitting Pattern

Berroco Garnet Star Knit Sweater

What is Being Made

The Berroco Garnet Star is an intermediate-level knit sweater designed by Amy Palmer. This pullover features a sophisticated tonal striping pattern created through strategic yarn color placement. The sweater is available in six sizes with finished bust measurements ranging from 36 inches to 56 inches, and lengths from 19 inches to 22 inches, accommodating various body types and fit preferences.

Construction Technique

This sweater is constructed using a bottom-up, seamed, worked-flat method. The garment pieces are knitted individually in flat rows rather than in the round, then assembled together using seaming techniques. This approach allows for precise shaping and easier pattern management, particularly when working with the yarn's tonal characteristics. The bottom-up construction means you begin at the lower edge of the sweater and work upward toward the shoulders and neckline.

Stitches and Pattern Details

The primary stitch used throughout this design is stockinette stitch (St st), which creates a smooth, classic fabric with a recognizable V-pattern texture. The pattern incorporates an intarsia method using multiple balls of the same yarn color to break up and enhance the tonal stripe patterning inherent in Berroco Catena yarn. By starting new balls at different points in the yarn's color sequence, the knitter creates visual interest and variation in the striping pattern across the sweater body. Mid-row yarn changes are worked by holding the current yarn to the left and picking up the new ball from underneath, which twists the yarn and prevents holes at the join points.

Materials and Gauge

This pattern calls for Berroco Catena yarn in colorway #5496 Matisse. Yardage requirements are 6 to 10 balls depending on size, with each ball weighing 50 grams. The pattern recommends purchasing extra yarn if color continuity of the striping pattern is a concern, as different balls will begin and end at different points in the tonal sequence.

Knitting needles in size 10½ (6.50 mm) or the size needed to obtain the specified gauge are required. The recommended gauge is 16 stitches and 20 rows over 4 inches in stockinette stitch. Checking gauge before beginning is essential to ensure accurate fit across all size options. Additional notions needed include 2 stitch markers and 1 stitch holder for managing stitches during construction.

Skill Level and Considerations

Rated as an intermediate project, this sweater requires competency with basic knitting techniques including casting on, working stockinette stitch, managing multiple yarn balls, and seaming pieces together. The intarsia technique and mid-row yarn changes add complexity beyond beginner patterns, making this suitable for knitters with some experience. The pattern provides detailed guidance on labeling yarn balls and managing color changes to ensure successful completion.