Shibui Knits Cliff Jumper Knitting Pattern

Shibui Knits Cliff Sweater

What is Being Made

Cliff is a modern colorwork sweater inspired by traditional Bohus knitting techniques. This downloadable knitting pattern offers knitters the choice between full-length or three-quarter length sleeves, making it a versatile heirloom-quality garment. The sweater is designed to be worn with positive ease and comes in five sizes ranging from extra-small to extra-large, with finished bust circumferences from 34 to 42 inches.

Knitting Techniques

Cliff employs several advanced knitting techniques suitable for intermediate-level knitters with some experience. The sweater is worked seamlessly from the top down in the round, a construction method that minimizes finishing work and creates a polished final garment. The design features raglan shaping for a classic fitted silhouette that accommodates various body types.

Stranded colorwork is the signature technique throughout this pattern, with knitters carrying colors not in use loosely across the wrong side to maintain fabric integrity and elasticity. The colorwork charts guide the creation of intricate patterning inspired by traditional Bohus knitting aesthetics.

Sleeves are worked in the round using longer circular needles and the Magic Loop method, a technique that allows knitters to work small circumferences without requiring double-pointed needles, though dpns are offered as an alternative option for those who prefer them.

Stitches Used

• Stockinette stitch (St st) – the primary stitch for the body and sleeves, providing a smooth, classic fabric suitable for showcasing colorwork
• 3x1 Ribbing – used for cuffs and hem details, worked over a multiple of 4 stitches to create elastic, fitted edges that hug the wrists and waist
• Stranded colorwork stitches – knit stitches worked with multiple colors according to provided charts, creating the distinctive Bohus-inspired pattern

Materials and Yarn Specifications

Cliff is designed to be knit in Shibui Pebble, a luxury yarn composed of 48% recycled silk, 36% fine merino wool, and 16% cashmere. This fiber blend creates a non-prickly, soft fabric with excellent drape and an heirloom quality suitable for a garment meant to be treasured for years. Each skein contains 224 yards and weighs 25 grams.

Yardage requirements vary by size: the main color (Color A) requires 5, 6, 6, 7, or 7 skeins depending on size, while accent colors (Colors B, C, D, and E) each require 1 or 2 skeins. The pattern is shown in the colorway Ivory (A), Chestnut (B), Poppy (C), Trail (D), and Sidewalk (E), though knitters may substitute other colors to personalize their version.

Tools and Needles

The pattern requires two sets of circular needles in different sizes to accommodate the gauge and construction method. Size 0 (2 mm) circular needles in both 16-inch and 32-inch lengths are used for ribbed edgings worked at a tighter gauge. Size 2 (2.75 mm) circular needles in matching lengths are used for the main body and colorwork sections. Additional tools include stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats and raglan increases, waste yarn for holding stitches, and a tapestry needle for weaving in ends.

Gauge and Finished Dimensions

The pattern is worked at a gauge of 32 stitches and 44 rounds over 4 inches in stockinette stitch on the larger needles after blocking. Achieving proper gauge is essential for obtaining the correct finished dimensions. Cliff is available in five sizes with finished bust circumferences of 34, 36, 38, 40, and 42 inches, designed to be worn with 2 inches of positive ease for comfortable movement and a modern silhouette.

Skill Level and Pattern Complexity

This pattern is rated as intermediate level, appropriate for knitters with prior experience who are comfortable with seamless construction, reading charts, and managing multiple colors simultaneously. The top-down raglan construction simplifies fitting adjustments, while the stranded colorwork technique requires attention to tension and color management to achieve professional results.