Keswick Jumper Knitting Pattern

Keswick Sweater by Quail Studio in Mode at Rowan Softest Alpaca

What is Being Made

Keswick is an advanced-level knitted sweater designed by Quail Studio and published by Mode at Rowan. This garment is a fitted pullover available in nine size options, ranging from 71-76 cm (28-30 inches) to 152-157 cm (60-62 inches) chest circumference. The finished sweater features a structured silhouette with an actual chest measurement ranging from 106 cm (41¾ inches) at the smallest size to 189 cm (74½ inches) at the largest size. The design includes front opening details with a 30 cm zip closure, making this a sophisticated, contemporary sweater suitable for intermediate to advanced knitters.

Knitting Techniques Used

The Keswick sweater employs several intermediate to advanced knitting techniques that contribute to its sophisticated construction. The pattern incorporates strategic decreasing at the front opening edge, with decreases worked on alternating rows and every fourth row depending on the size being knitted. Shoulder shaping is achieved through multiple cast-off sequences, with different stitch counts cast off at the beginning of rows and alternating rows to create a properly fitted armhole and shoulder line. The pattern requires careful stitch maintenance throughout, as the knitter must keep stitches correct while performing shaping decreases. Stitch holders are used to temporarily secure stitches during construction, particularly for the front opening inserts and shoulder sections, allowing for seamless integration of pattern pieces.

Stitches Used

The Keswick sweater is worked primarily in a textured rib pattern that forms the visual foundation of the design. The main stitch pattern alternates between knit and purl stitches in a specific sequence: Row 1 (Right Side) begins with P1, K1, then repeats *P2, K1* across to the final stitch, ending with P1. Row 2 (Wrong Side) mirrors this with K1, P1, repeating *K2, P1* to the last stitch, finishing with K1. This two-row repeat creates a vertical rib texture throughout the body of the sweater. Additional stitches employed include knit two together (K2tog) for decreasing at the front opening edge, and cast-on and cast-off techniques for shaping the shoulders and creating finished edges. The combination of these stitches produces a fabric with excellent elasticity and visual interest.

Materials: Yarn, Needles, and Notions

The Keswick sweater is designed specifically for Mode at Rowan Softest Alpaca, a luxury yarn fiber. Yardage requirements vary by size, ranging from 13 balls (50 grams each) for the smallest size to 23 balls for the largest size. The pattern photograph showcases the sweater knitted in Cloud 014, a neutral colorway that highlights the soft texture of the alpaca fiber. Knitting is worked on 4mm (US size 6) needles in a single pair configuration. The tension is set at 26 stitches and 28 rows to 10 centimeters, measured over the pattern stitch using the specified needle size. Essential notions include stitch holders for managing active stitches during construction and stitch markers to track pattern repeats and shaping points. A 30 centimeter zip closure is incorporated into the front opening, adding both functional and design elements to the finished garment.