Rico Design Sweater and Cushion Homeware Knitting Pattern

Rico Design Sweater and Cushion: Knitting Pattern Summary

Project Overview

This downloadable knitting pattern from Rico Design features a coordinated set comprising a Fashion Modern Tweed aran sweater and matching cushion. Both pieces utilize the same yarn in a classic two-color stripe design, making this an ideal project for knitters seeking to create complementary homeware and wearable items.

Sweater Construction

What is Being Made: A crew-neck pullover sweater worked in garter stitch with horizontal stripes. The pattern offers three size options to fit bust measurements of 81–86 cm (32–34 in), 91–97 cm (36–38 in), and 102–107 cm (40–42 in), with actual finished bust measurements of 112 cm, 120 cm, and 128 cm respectively. The sweater features a full length of approximately 65 cm (25½ in) and sleeve length of approximately 52 cm (20½ in).

Techniques Used: This sweater is constructed using the bottom-up method, meaning pieces are knitted from the hem upward. The garment is worked flat on straight needles rather than in the round, and all pieces are subsequently seamed together. Horizontal stripes are incorporated throughout the design, created by alternating between the main shade (black, Shade 010) and contrast shade (cream, Shade 001).

Stitches Used: The primary stitch throughout the sweater is garter stitch, which creates a textured, reversible fabric. Garter stitch is formed by knitting every row, making it an excellent choice for beginners and intermediate knitters as it requires no complex stitch manipulation.

Materials: The sweater is knitted using Rico Fashion Modern Tweed aran yarn. Quantities vary by size: the main shade (black, Shade 010) requires 8, 9, or 10 balls of 50 g each depending on size selection, while the contrast shade (cream, Shade 001) requires 7, 8, or 9 balls of 50 g each. Knitting needles are 5 mm (UK size 6, USA size 8), and a stitch holder is required for managing stitches during construction. The pattern specifies that only Rico yarns should be used to ensure accuracy and proper finished dimensions.

Cushion Construction

What is Being Made: A square cushion cover measuring 51 × 51 cm (20 × 20 in) that coordinates with the sweater design. The cushion is worked in the same garter stitch and stripe pattern as the sweater, creating a cohesive aesthetic across both pieces.

Techniques Used: Like the sweater, the cushion is constructed using the flat knitting method with seaming to join pieces. The stripe pattern is maintained throughout for visual consistency with the accompanying garment.

Materials: The cushion requires Rico Fashion Modern Tweed aran yarn in the same two shades: main shade (black, Shade 010) and contrast shade (cream, Shade 001), with 3 balls of 50 g each required for both colors. A washable cushion pad measuring 50 × 50 cm (20 × 20 in) is needed to complete the project.

Skill Level and Tension

This pattern is rated as easy to intermediate, making it suitable for beginners through intermediate knitters. The tension is 17 stitches and 34 rows to 10 cm (4 in) over garter stitch using 5 mm needles. Achieving correct tension is essential for obtaining the proper finished dimensions; knitters should adjust needle size accordingly if their tension differs from the specified gauge.

Key Pattern Features

• Two-color horizontal stripe design using Rico Fashion Modern Tweed aran yarn in black and cream
• Garter stitch construction throughout both sweater and cushion for texture and reversibility
• Bottom-up, flat-worked construction with seamed seams for both pieces
• Three sweater sizes available with finished bust measurements of 112 cm, 120 cm, and 128 cm
• Coordinated cushion cover that complements the sweater design
• Straightforward construction suitable for knitters developing their skills

Important Notes

The pattern emphasizes that tension accuracy is critical to achieving the correct garment size. Knitters must check their tension before beginning and adjust needle sizes if necessary. The yarn amounts provided are approximate based on average requirements. Where only one figure appears in the instructions, it applies to all sizes. The pattern specifies that only Rico yarns should be used to ensure proper results.