Berroco Plexus Jumper Knitting Pattern

Berroco Plexus Sweater by Norah Gaughan

What is Being Made

The Berroco Plexus is a women's pullover sweater designed by Norah Gaughan, available in sizes to fit bust measurements from 30 inches up to 54 inches. The finished bust measurements range from 36 inches to 60 inches, with length to shoulder varying from 24½ inches to 28½ inches depending on size. This intermediate-level knitting project creates a classic fitted sweater suitable for everyday wear.

Knitting Techniques Used

This sweater is constructed using several key knitting techniques that create both structure and visual interest:

• Bottom-Up Construction: The sweater is worked from the bottom edge upward, allowing knitters to try on the garment as it progresses and easily adjust length if needed.
• Worked Flat: Pieces are knitted flat on straight needles rather than in the round, then seamed together for finishing.
• Seamed Assembly: Individual pieces (front, back, and sleeves) are sewn together using a crochet hook, creating clean, professional seams.
• Lace Details: Lace stitch patterns add sophisticated texture and visual appeal to the design, characteristic of Norah Gaughan's refined aesthetic.

Stitches and Stitch Work

The pattern employs fundamental knitting stitches combined with shaping techniques. Stockinette stitch (st st) forms the foundation fabric, worked at a gauge of 17 stitches and 24 rows over 4 inches using size 8 needles. Shaping is achieved through knit two together (k2tog) and slip, slip, knit (ssk) decreases, which are worked symmetrically on right-side rows to create tapered armholes and neckline shaping. The lace elements incorporate these decrease stitches as part of their pattern repeat. Stitch markers are used throughout to help track pattern repeats and shaping points.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

This pattern is designed specifically for Berroco Weekend yarn in color 5907. Yardage requirements vary by size: the smallest size (30 inches) requires 4 hanks of 100-gram weight, while the largest size (54 inches) requires 8 hanks. Berroco Weekend is a durable, easy-care yarn suitable for everyday garments.

Needles and Tools

The pattern calls for straight knitting needles in two sizes: size 6 (4mm) needles and size 8 (5mm) needles, allowing knitters to adjust needle size to achieve the specified gauge. A size 4.00mm (G/6) crochet hook is used for seaming the finished pieces together. Stitch markers are essential for tracking pattern repeats and marking key shaping points throughout construction.

Pattern Notes

This is an intermediate-level pattern, meaning knitters should be comfortable with basic shaping techniques, reading pattern instructions, and seaming. The pattern provides detailed armhole and neck shaping instructions, with decreases worked every other row for a smooth, professional fit. The design accommodates a wide range of sizes with specific stitch counts and measurements provided for each size option.