Shibui Knits Fresco Jumper Knitting Pattern

Shibui Knits Fresco Garter Pullover

What Is Being Made

The Fresco Garter Pullover is a sophisticated knitted sweater designed by Shellie Anderson. This pullover features elegant design details including upturned cuffs on the sleeves and a notched hem that emphasizes the geometric qualities of the garment. The sweater is available in seven sizes ranging from XS to XXL, with finished bust circumferences from 41.5 inches to 57.5 inches, making it suitable for a wide range of body types. The model shown is 5'9" wearing Size S with approximately 9 inches of ease.

Techniques Used

Fresco is constructed using a bottom-up method with pieces worked flat and then seamed together. This traditional approach allows knitters to try on the garment as it progresses and make adjustments as needed. The body begins at the hem and is worked upward, while the sleeves are worked separately in flat pieces before being seamed and attached to the body. The cuffs feature an elegant turned-up detail that is tacked in place for a refined finish. The pattern includes notched side vents at the hem, adding both visual interest and practical shaping to the silhouette.

Stitches Used

The primary stitch throughout Fresco is Garter Stitch, which creates a textured, reversible fabric with horizontal ridges. This stitch is achieved by knitting every row, producing a classic, lyrical appearance that showcases the yarn's qualities. The pattern begins with (k1, p1) ribbing at the hem, which provides elasticity and helps the sweater sit close to the body at the lower edge. Stockinette Stitch edging is incorporated for refined finishing details. The pattern also employs a Sloped Bind-Off technique throughout for professional shaping, and includes a 3-Needle Bind-Off for seaming, which creates a strong, neat join between pieces.

Materials and Tools

Fresco is designed to be knitted with Shibui Knits Birch, a yarn composed of 100% Extra Fine Merino wool. The yardage is 262 yards per 50-gram skein, and the pattern requires 6 to 8 skeins depending on size. The sample shown is knitted in the Bordeaux colorway. Knitters will need Size 4 (3.5 mm) needles for the ribbed hem and Size 5 (3.75 mm) needles for the main body and sleeves. Additional tools include a spare Size 5 needle for the 3-Needle Bind-Off, stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats, stitch holders for managing stitches during construction, and a tapestry needle for seaming and weaving in ends.

Gauge and Skill Level

The pattern specifies a gauge of 23 stitches and 39 rows over 4 inches in Garter Stitch after blocking, using one strand of Birch on Size 5 needles. Achieving the correct gauge is essential for obtaining the finished dimensions listed in the pattern. Fresco is rated as an Intermediate skill level project, suitable for knitters with experience in basic techniques who are ready to tackle garment construction, shaping, and seaming.