Classic Elite Yarns Palasha Jumper Knitting Pattern

Classic Elite Yarns Palasha Knit Sweater

What Is Being Made

The Palasha is a guernsey-style tunic sweater designed by Susan Mills and originally published in Hanako 1702A. This intermediate-level knit features a sophisticated silhouette with set-in sleeves, front pockets, and side slits. The design combines traditional guernsey patterning with modern construction, creating a versatile piece suitable for various occasions. Available in six sizes ranging from XS to 2XL, with finished bust measurements from 36½ inches to 56½ inches and lengths from 23½ inches to 27¼ inches.

Techniques Used

The Palasha is constructed using several key knitting techniques that define its structure and visual appeal:

• Bottom-up construction: The sweater is worked from the bottom edge upward, beginning with a cable cast-on method for a secure, finished edge
• Worked flat: All pieces are knitted flat on straight needles rather than in the round, allowing for precise shaping and seaming
• Seamed construction: Pieces are sewn together after completion, creating clean, professional seams throughout the garment
• Lace patterning: The upper body features a guernsey chart pattern that incorporates lace elements with strategic increases and decreases, creating visual texture and interest

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The Palasha employs a combination of fundamental and decorative stitches to achieve its distinctive appearance:

• Stockinette stitch (St st): Forms the primary fabric of the body, creating a smooth, classic knit surface
• Ridge pattern: A four-row repeat consisting of purl and knit rows that creates a textured, ridged trim. This pattern is worked at the lower edge and upper body transitions, measuring approximately 2¾ inches when repeated five times. The ridge pattern provides both visual definition and structural stability
• Guernsey chart: A complex patterned section worked on the upper body that begins with 75 stitches and features dynamic stitch counts that decrease to 69 stitches and increase back to 75 stitches within the repeat. This chart creates the distinctive guernsey-style patterning characteristic of traditional fisherman's sweaters, adapted here for a contemporary tunic silhouette
• Reverse stockinette elements: Purl stitches are strategically placed to frame pattern sections and create visual contrast

Gauge and Sizing Considerations

Achieving proper gauge is essential for this design. The pattern specifies 20 stitches and 26 rows equal 4 inches in stockinette stitch using larger needles after blocking. For the guernsey chart pattern, 69 to 75 stitches measure 15 inches wide using larger needles after blocking. The pattern notes that needle size may need adjustment when working the chart pattern on the upper body to maintain correct gauge, as the stitch count fluctuates within the guernsey repeat. Careful gauge swatching and blocking before beginning is strongly recommended.

Materials Required

While specific yarn yardage and needle sizes are not fully detailed in the provided content, the pattern is designed to be worked with Classic Elite Yarns products. The construction calls for larger needles for the main fabric and requires yarn suitable for achieving the specified gauge of 20 stitches per 4 inches. The pattern accommodates six different sizes, so yarn requirements will vary by finished measurements. Stitch markers are essential for tracking the ridge pattern sections and guernsey chart placement throughout construction.

Design Features and Construction Details

The Palasha combines traditional and contemporary design elements. The ridged trim appears at the lower edge and transitions between pattern sections, providing textural interest and structural definition. The guernsey chart pattern on the upper body creates the sweater's signature visual element, requiring careful attention to stitch count changes within each repeat. The set-in sleeves and side slits provide both comfort and style, while the front pockets add functional detail. This intermediate-level pattern rewards careful attention to gauge and stitch counting with a polished, professionally finished garment.