Noro Strawberry Fields Jumper Knitting Pattern

Noro Strawberry Fields Knit Sweater

What Is Being Made

The Noro Strawberry Fields is a knitted sweater designed by Jenny Watson Designs, available in five sizes ranging from X Small (81/86 cm bust) to X Large (122/127 cm bust). This garment features a classic pullover construction with set-in sleeves and a ribbed neckline, creating a versatile piece suitable for various occasions and body types.

Knitting Techniques Used

This sweater is constructed using several fundamental knitting techniques that build a quality, professional-looking garment. The piece is worked flat on straight needles rather than in the round, meaning the front and back panels are knitted separately and then seamed together. The construction method is bottom-up, beginning with cast-on stitches at the lower edge and working upward toward the shoulders and neckline. This approach allows for easy fitting adjustments and straightforward pattern following.

The pattern employs strategic decreasing techniques to shape the garment, including slip-stitch decreases (s1, K1, psso) and knit-two-together (K2tog) methods. These decreases are worked at specific intervals to create fitted side seams and armhole shaping. Ribbed edgings are incorporated at the cuffs and neckline using alternating knit and purl stitches, which provide elasticity and a finished appearance.

Stitches Used

• Stocking Stitch (Stockinette Stitch): The primary stitch throughout the body of the sweater, created by alternating knit rows on the right side with purl rows on the wrong side. This produces the classic smooth, V-textured fabric that is the foundation of most fitted knitwear.
• Ribbed Stitch: Used for the neckline, cuffs, and lower edge ribbing. The pattern specifies a combination of knit and purl stitches (K1, P1 or K1, P2 variations) worked in alternating rows to create vertical columns that stretch and recover.
• Decrease Stitches: Slip-stitch pass-over decreases (s1, K1, psso) and knit-two-together decreases (K2tog) are used throughout for shaping the armholes, neckline, and side seams.

Materials and Tools Required

The Noro Strawberry Fields sweater is knitted using Noro Hakone yarn in Shade 12, a premium yarn choice known for its distinctive color variations and quality construction. The yardage requirement depends on size, ranging from 5 hanks (100g each) for the smallest size to 9 hanks for the largest size, providing approximately 500 to 900 grams of yarn depending on the finished garment size.

Two pairs of knitting needles are required to complete this project. The primary needles are 8mm (US 11) knitting needles, used for working the main body of the sweater in stocking stitch. Smaller 6mm (US 10) knitting needles are used for the ribbed edgings, which require a tighter gauge to create elastic, structured borders. The pattern also calls for stitch holders to temporarily secure stitches during construction, particularly at the neckline and armholes.

Gauge and Tension

Achieving the correct tension is critical for the success of this project. The pattern specifies a tension of 10 stitches and 14 rows to 10 centimeters (4 inches) over stocking stitch when using 8mm (US 11) knitting needles. Knitters should always work a tension swatch before beginning the sweater to ensure their personal gauge matches these specifications. If the swatch produces fewer stitches and rows per 10 centimeters, finer needles should be substituted; conversely, if more stitches and rows appear, larger needles are needed. This adjustment ensures the finished sweater will achieve the intended measurements and fit properly.

Sizing and Measurements

The pattern provides comprehensive sizing information across five sizes. Finished bust measurements range from 90 centimeters (35½ inches) for X Small to 134 centimeters (52¾ inches) for X Large. Full length measurements vary from approximately 52 centimeters (20½ inches) in the smallest size to 60 centimeters (23¾ inches) in the largest. Sleeve lengths range from 33 centimeters (13 inches) for X Small and Small sizes to 37 centimeters (