Debbie Bliss Nina Knitting Pattern

Debbie Bliss Nina Sweater

What Is Being Made

The Debbie Bliss Nina Sweater is a knitted jumper designed to fit bust sizes ranging from 82-127 cm (32-50 inches). This intermediate-level garment is available in five size options with finished bust measurements from 110 cm to 150 cm (43¼ to 59 inches) and a length to shoulder of 55-59 cm (21¼-23¼ inches). The sweater features an optional hood, making it a versatile layering piece suitable for various occasions and seasons.

Techniques Used

The Nina Sweater is constructed using a bottom-up method, meaning the garment is knitted from the lower edge upward. The sweater is worked flat on straight needles rather than in the round, and pieces are seamed together after completion. This traditional construction method allows for precise shaping and control over fit throughout the knitting process.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The primary stitch pattern used in the Nina Sweater is a lace pattern that repeats over 16 rows. The pattern combines knit stitches, purl stitches, yarn forward (yf) increases, and knit two together (k2tog) decreases to create an openwork design. The lace motif is worked in stocking stitch (alternating knit and purl rows) as the base, with the decorative eyelet pattern creating vertical lines of yarn overs and corresponding decreases. The pattern repeats are offset across different size options to maintain proper proportions, with specific stitch counts varying by size in rows 3, 5, 7, 9, 11, 13, and 15 of the 16-row repeat.

Materials and Tools

The Nina Sweater requires Debbie Bliss Angel yarn in Heather 36, a 25g ball weight. For the main jumper, knitters need 10 to 14 balls depending on size selection (sizes range from 10 balls for the smallest size to 14 balls for the largest). Two strands of yarn are held together throughout construction, which affects the gauge and creates a denser fabric suitable for a wearable garment. Knitting needles required include a pair of 3.75mm (US 5) needles for ribbing and a pair of 4mm (US 6) needles for the main pattern work. The gauge is 20 stitches and 26 rows over a 10cm square using 4mm needles with two strands of yarn held together. For the optional hood, an additional three 25g balls of Debbie Bliss Angel in Heather 36 and matching needle pairs are needed.

Difficulty Level

This pattern is rated as intermediate difficulty, making it suitable for knitters with some experience. The lace pattern requires attention to stitch counts and yarn forward placement, and the seamed construction demands careful finishing techniques for a polished final garment.