Draco Pullover in Berroco Vintage Handpaint and Vintage Sock

Draco Pullover: Knitted Sweater Pattern Overview

What is Being Made

The Draco Pullover is an intermediate-level knitted sweater designed by Mel Kennelly. This garment is available in 11 different sizes, ranging from extra-small (33" bust) through extra-large (73" bust), making it suitable for a wide range of body measurements. The finished length varies slightly by size, ranging from approximately 21½" to 25¾" depending on the selected size. The pattern is shown modeled in size 5, which features a 49" bust measurement and 23¼" length. The design incorporates positive ease of approximately 2–4 inches, allowing for comfortable wear with a relaxed fit.

Construction Technique

The Draco Pullover is constructed using a distinctive sideways knitting method. Rather than the traditional top-down or bottom-up approach, this garment is worked in two separate sections that are knitted horizontally across the body. This sideways construction technique creates unique fabric characteristics and allows for interesting design possibilities in stitch patterning and shaping.

Stitches and Techniques Used

The primary stitch used throughout the Draco Pullover is stockinette stitch (abbreviated as St st), which creates the classic smooth, V-patterned fabric characteristic of traditional knitted sweaters. The pattern requires knitters to work with circular needles in the round as well as flat sections, demonstrating intermediate-level skills in managing multiple needle techniques and construction methods.

Yarn Materials

The Draco Pullover is designed to be knitted using two complementary yarns from the Berroco collection:

• Berroco Vintage Sock Handpaint (100 g hanks): Used as the primary color (C1) in the shade #12202 Driftwood Shore. Yardage requirements range from 2 hanks for smaller sizes to 3 hanks for larger sizes.
• Berroco Vintage Sock (100 g hanks): Used as the secondary color (C2) in the shade #12002 Buttercream. This solid yarn complements the handpainted yarn and requires 2–3 hanks depending on size selection.

Both yarns are from the Berroco Vintage Sock line, providing consistent fiber content and weight throughout the project. The combination of handpainted and solid colorways creates visual interest while maintaining yarn compatibility.

Needles and Notions

The Draco Pullover requires a specific needle setup to accommodate the sideways construction and various circumferences:

• Two 32" / 80 cm circular needles in size 4 / 3.5 mm (larger needles for main fabric)
• 32" / 80 cm and 16" / 40 cm circular needles in size 2 / 2.75 mm (smaller needles for ribbed sections)
• One set of double-pointed needles or preferred small circumference needles in both size 4 / 3.5 mm and size 2 / 2.75 mm

Additional notions include one stitch marker, removeable stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats, and waste yarn for holding stitches during construction.

Gauge and Finishing

Achieving the correct gauge is essential for this project. The pattern specifies a gauge of 27 stitches and 37 rows over 4 inches in stockinette stitch using the larger needles. Gauge is measured after blocking, which is an important step for accurate finished measurements. Knitters are strongly encouraged to knit and measure a gauge swatch before beginning the full project to ensure proper fit and dimensions.

Skill Level

This pattern is rated as Intermediate, indicating that knitters should have solid foundational skills including the ability to work with circular needles, manage multiple sections, and understand basic shaping techniques. The sideways construction method and color work coordination add complexity beyond beginner-level projects.