Shibui Knits Milan Jumper Knitting Pattern

Shibui Knits Milan Garter Ridge Pullover

What is Being Made

The Milan is a refined pullover sweater designed by Shellie Anderson that combines everyday wearability with sophisticated styling. This essential garment features a distinctive vented high-low hem and elegant garter ridge texture throughout, making it a versatile piece suitable for year-round wear. The sweater is available in seven sizes ranging from XS to XXL, with finished bust circumferences from 40 inches to 56 inches, accommodating a wide range of body types and fit preferences.

Techniques Used

The Milan is constructed using a bottom-up, seamed, and worked-flat approach, which allows for precise shaping and easy adjustments during the knitting process. The garment begins with the back piece, which is worked flat from the bottom upward using the German Twisted Cast-On method for a secure foundation edge. Sleeves are similarly worked flat from the cuff up, then seamed to the body using traditional seaming techniques. A stockinette collar is picked up from the neckline opening and worked in the round before being turned under and seamed for a polished, professional finish. The construction includes strategic shaping at the neck with bind-offs distributed across multiple rows to create a smooth armhole and neckline.

Stitches Used

The primary stitch pattern is Garter Ridge Stitch, which creates the sophisticated textured appearance that defines this design. Garter Ridge Stitch produces a distinctive ridged fabric with visual interest while maintaining the drape and flexibility needed for a wearable pullover. The pattern also incorporates stockinette stitch for the collar, providing a smooth, classic finish that contrasts with the textured body. A foundation row of Garter Stitch (1 inch) is worked at the beginning to establish the hem before transitioning into the main Garter Ridge Stitch pattern. The construction also employs the 3-Needle Bind-Off technique for joining shoulder seams, creating a strong, flexible seam that withstands regular wear.

Materials and Tools

The Milan is designed to be knitted with Shibui Knits Lunar, a luxurious yarn blend composed of 60% Extra Fine Merino and 40% Mulberry Silk. This fiber combination provides softness, breathability, and a subtle sheen characteristic of silk content. The yarn is available at 401 yards per 50-gram skein, with yardage requirements ranging from 4 skeins for smaller sizes to 6 skeins for the largest XXL size. The pattern shown is worked in the colorway Pollen.

Knitting needles required include Size 3 (3.25 mm) 16-inch circular needles for the collar and Size 4 (3.5 mm) needles for the main body and sleeves, with a spare Size 4 needle needed for the 3-Needle Bind-Off technique. Additional tools include stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats, stitch holders for securing stitches during construction, and a tapestry needle for seaming and weaving in ends. The pattern specifies a gauge of 26 stitches and 44 rows over 4 inches in Garter Ridge Stitch after blocking, which is essential for achieving the correct finished dimensions.

Pattern Details and Sizing

The Milan is rated as an Intermediate skill level pattern, suitable for knitters with experience in basic construction techniques and shaping. The pattern accommodates seven different sizes with specific finished measurements for bust circumference and length from shoulder, allowing knitters to select the appropriate size based on desired ease and fit. The model shown is 5 feet 9 inches tall wearing Size S with 7.5 inches of positive ease, providing a reference point for how the garment drapes on a standard frame. Back length measurements range from 24.75 inches to 25.5 inches depending on size, while front lengths are slightly shorter at 23.75 inches to 25.5 inches, creating the characteristic high-low hemline.