Genoa Jumper Knitting Pattern

Genoa Sweater in MODE at Rowan Mohair Soft

What is Being Made

Genoa is an intermediate-level knitted sweater designed by Quail Studio. This pullover garment is crafted from luxurious mohair yarn and features cable panel detailing. The pattern offers nine size options ranging from chest measurements of 71-76 cm (28-30 inches) up to 152-157 cm (60-62 inches), with corresponding actual garment chest measurements from 98 cm to 178 cm. The design photographed features the colorway Whisper 10203.

Techniques Used

The Genoa sweater incorporates several intermediate knitting techniques that create visual interest and texture. Cable knitting is a primary design element, with cable panels measuring 7.5 cm wide across 18 stitches. The pattern employs shaping techniques including decreases at the neckline and shoulder shaping to create a fitted garment. Ribbed edging is used at the lower edge and neckband to provide structure and elasticity. The construction involves working flat pieces that are later assembled, with stitch holders used to manage live stitches during neckline shaping. A circular needle is employed for the neckband finishing, allowing for seamless ribbed edging around the neck opening.

Stitches Used

• Stocking stitch (stockinette stitch): The primary fabric throughout the garment, creating a smooth, classic knit surface
• Ribbing: Knit 1, Purl 1 (K1, P1) rib pattern used for the lower edge and neckband to provide elasticity and definition
• Cable stitches: C6B (cable 6 back) and C6F (cable 6 front) create the decorative cable panels. These are worked by slipping stitches onto a cable needle, holding them to the back or front of work, then crossing them over the working stitches
• Decreases: K3tog (knit 3 stitches together) is used for shaping at the neckline, reducing 2 stitches in a single row
• Single stitch decreases: Used progressively at the neck edge on consecutive rows and alternating rows to create a gradual, shaped neckline

Materials and Gauge

The Genoa sweater is knitted using Rowan Mohair Soft yarn in 50-gram balls. Yarn quantities vary by size, ranging from 7 balls for the smallest size (71-76 cm chest) to 13 balls for the largest size (152-157 cm chest). The pattern photographed uses the colorway Whisper 10203.

Needles required: One pair of 5mm (US size 8) needles for the main garment pieces, plus 5mm (US size 8) circular needles measuring 40 cm in length for working the neckband. The circular needle allows for working the ribbed neckband in the round, creating a seamless finish.

Tension (gauge): The pattern is worked to a tension of 17 stitches and 24 rows measured over 10 cm in stocking stitch using 5mm (US 8) needles. The cable panels measure 7.5 cm wide over 18 stitches. Achieving correct gauge is essential for proper fit, particularly important given the range of sizes offered in this pattern.

Additional Notions

The pattern requires stitch markers to help track pattern repeats and shaping points, and stitch holders to temporarily hold stitches during neckline shaping and for the back neck stitches during assembly.