Berroco Haskell Jumper Knitting Pattern

Berroco Haskell Knit Sweater

What is Being Made

The Haskell is a knitted sweater designed by Donna Yacino, available in multiple sizes ranging from 36" to 68" bust measurement. This intermediate-level knitting project creates a finished garment with a length of approximately 23" to 26" measured down the center back, offering versatility for various body types and fit preferences. The sweater is constructed as a single continuous piece, making it an efficient project for knitters seeking to minimize seaming.

Construction Technique

This garment employs a top-down construction method, beginning at the neckline and working downward to the hem. The yoke is shaped using short rows, a strategic knitting technique that creates graduated shaping without increasing bulk. The sweater is worked in the round using circular needles, which allows for seamless construction and continuous knitting in a spiral pattern. This method is particularly valued for creating smooth, professional-looking garments with minimal finishing work required.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The Haskell utilizes fundamental knitting stitches appropriate for intermediate crafters. The pattern incorporates stockinette stitch (St st) as the primary fabric, which creates a smooth, classic knit surface. The yoke shaping employs yarn overs (yo) for decorative increases that integrate seamlessly into the fabric structure. A 2x2 ribbed rib (alternating knit 2, purl 2) provides elastic edging at the neckline, ensuring a comfortable fit and preventing stretching.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

This project calls for Berroco Sesame yarn, a premium fiber option available in two colorways for this design. The main color (MC) is #7413 Cherry Blossom, requiring between 4 to 9 balls depending on size selection, with each ball weighing 100 grams. A contrasting color (CC) in #7406 Salt & Pepper is used as an accent, requiring 1 to 2 balls based on garment size. This two-color approach allows for creative color blocking or striping opportunities within the design.

Needles and Tools Required

Knitters will need two sizes of circular needles to complete this project: size 5 (3.75 mm) and size 7 (4.50 mm), each available in both 16" and 32" lengths to accommodate different stitch counts as the garment expands from yoke to body. Additionally, double-pointed needles in both sizes are required for working small circumferences in the round, particularly for sleeve shaping. A single stitch marker helps identify the center back position during circular knitting, and waste yarn serves as a temporary stitch holder for sleeve stitches during construction.

Gauge and Fit Information

Achieving the correct gauge is essential for accurate finished measurements. The pattern specifies a gauge of 20 stitches and 26 rounds equals 4 inches (10 cm) in stockinette stitch when worked on the larger size 7 needles. The recommended positive ease is 2 to 4 inches, meaning the finished garment should measure 2 to 4 inches larger than the wearer's actual bust measurement for comfortable wear. This ease allowance accommodates layering and ensures appropriate drape and movement in the finished sweater.

Skill Level Considerations

Classified as an intermediate project, the Haskell requires knitters to be comfortable with circular needle techniques, working in the round, yarn overs for shaping, and short-row construction. While not a beginner pattern, it remains accessible to knitters who have completed several basic projects and understand fundamental increases and decreases. The top-down construction method provides built-in fitting opportunities, allowing adjustments before committing to the final garment length.