Classic Elite Yarns Middlesex Jumper Knitting Pattern

Classic Elite Yarns Middlesex Knitted Sweater

What Is Being Made

The Middlesex is a knitted sweater designed by Susan Mills, originally published in the Classic Elite Yarns collection Cables with a Twist 1708B. This garment features botanical-themed cable patterns as a central design element, making it an elegant choice for crafters seeking a sophisticated, nature-inspired pullover.

Construction Method

The Middlesex sweater is constructed using a bottom-up, worked flat approach, meaning pieces are knitted from the hem upward and seamed together at the end. This traditional method allows knitters to try on the garment as it progresses and make length adjustments before completing the final seams.

Stitch Techniques and Pattern Details

This design incorporates multiple stitch patterns to create visual interest and texture:

• 2 x 2 Rib: A foundational ribbed pattern used for edges and cuffs, worked over a multiple of 4 stitches plus 2, creating vertical columns that provide stretch and a polished finish
• Double Moss Stitch: A textured all-over pattern worked over a multiple of 4 stitches, alternating knit and purl stitches in a checkerboard arrangement across 4 rows to create a subtle, nubby fabric
• Cable Patterns: The sweater features botanical-themed cables, including a Double Leaf chart panel and Circled Leaf chart motifs. The Double Leaf panel spans 26 stitches as its base count, though the stitch count fluctuates during the 18-row repeat—increasing to a maximum of 42 stitches at the widest point of the leaf design before decreasing back to 26 stitches. Each complete 18-row repeat measures approximately 2¼ inches in height
• Lace Elements: The pattern incorporates lace techniques within the leaf motifs, adding delicate openwork details to the botanical cable designs
• Reverse Stockinette: Used strategically to frame and highlight the cable and leaf patterns, creating contrast and allowing the dimensional cables to stand out

Pattern Shaping and Design Considerations

The Middlesex requires thoughtful planning during construction. Knitters must monitor their progress at the end of each 18-row repeat as they approach the armhole shaping on the back and front neck shaping. If insufficient space remains for a complete 2¼-inch repeat, the pattern instructs knitters to transition from the charted leaf patterns to reverse stockinette stitch, ensuring a clean finish at the shoulders and neckline without awkward partial repeats.

During front neck shaping, the Circled Leaf chart patterns are maintained on each side of the neck opening as much as possible, while the center stitches transition to reverse stockinette for a neat, finished appearance.

Materials Required

This pattern is designed for knitting needles and calls for yarn from Classic Elite Yarns. The specific yardage and yarn weight are referenced in the complete pattern documentation, which includes detailed charts for the Double Leaf and Circled Leaf motifs on page 4 of the original publication.

Skill Level and Techniques Summary

The Middlesex combines fundamental knitting techniques—ribbing, stockinette, and reverse stockinette—with more advanced skills including cable knitting, lace techniques, and chart reading. The botanical cable designs require following multi-row charts with stitch count variations, making this an intermediate to advanced project suitable for knitters comfortable with cable work and pattern adjustments.