Berroco Shim Jumper Knitting Pattern

Berroco Shim by Norah Gaughan

What is Being Made

The Berroco Shim is a seamless knit sweater designed by Norah Gaughan from her Vol. 14 collection. This garment is an intermediate-level knitting project available in seven sizes to fit bust measurements from 30 inches up to 54 inches. The sweater features a finished bust measurement of 33½ to 57½ inches with approximately 3½ inches of positive ease, and a center back length ranging from 23½ to 26½ inches depending on size.

Techniques Used

The Shim employs several advanced knitting techniques that create visual interest and structure:

• Seamless construction: The sweater is worked in the round using circular needles, eliminating the need for seaming and creating a continuous, polished garment
• Bottom-up construction: The piece is knit from the hem upward toward the neckline, allowing for easy length adjustments during the knitting process
• Lace patterning: Decorative lace elements are incorporated throughout the design, created using yarn overs and decreases to form openwork motifs that add elegance and texture
• Chart-based stitch patterns: The design utilizes Chart A, a stitch pattern that is worked repeatedly to establish the overall aesthetic

Stitches and Stitch Techniques

The pattern employs fundamental and intermediate stitches to construct the sweater. Stockinette stitch forms the primary fabric base, providing a smooth, classic canvas. Purl stitches create textural contrast and are used in specific pattern sections. Yarn overs paired with knit two together decreases and purl two together decreases form the lace pattern repeats. Stitch markers are used throughout to denote pattern repeats and construction sections, helping knitters maintain accuracy across the circular rounds.

Materials

This pattern calls for Berroco Fuji yarn in color 9201. Yardage requirements vary by size, ranging from 5 hanks for the smallest size to 9 hanks for the largest size. The pattern requires two circular knitting needles: size 5 (3.75mm) and size 7 (4.5mm), with the larger needle used for the main fabric. The recommended gauge is 20 stitches and 28 rows over 4 inches in stockinette stitch using the larger needle, and knitters are advised to check gauge before beginning to ensure proper fit and finished measurements.