Shibui Knits Ridge Jumper Knitting Pattern

Shibui Knits Ridge Sweater

What is Being Made

The Ridge is a minimalist pullover sweater designed by Lidia Tsymbal for Shibui Knits. This intermediate-level knitting project combines a simple, understated silhouette with an innovative multi-directional stitch pattern that adds visual interest and complexity to the construction. The sweater is intended as a versatile fall comfort piece suitable for everyday wear.

Construction Method and Techniques

The Ridge sweater is worked using a combination of bottom-up and worked-flat construction methods. The body is initially worked in the round from the bottom edge up to the armholes using circular needles. At the armholes, the work is divided, and the front and back pieces are then worked separately and flat to the shoulders. The sleeves are worked from the armholes down to the cuffs. This hybrid approach allows for seamless construction in the body while providing the control and shaping options of flat knitting for the upper garment sections.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The primary stitch pattern used in the Ridge sweater is the Chain Stitch, which creates the interesting multi-directional texture referenced in the design. The pattern also incorporates Slip Stitch Rib, a textured ribbing technique worked over a multiple of 3 stitches. The Slip Stitch Rib pattern is constructed as follows: Round 1 knits 1 stitch and purls 2 stitches in repeating sequence; Round 2 slips 1 stitch purlwise with yarn in back and purls 2 stitches in repeating sequence. Welted details complement the simple construction throughout the garment, adding subtle shaping and visual definition. These stitch patterns provide both structural integrity and aesthetic appeal, making this design educational even for experienced knitters.

Materials and Tools

The Ridge sweater is designed to be worked with Shibui Pebble yarn held as two strands together throughout the entire project. Pebble is a luxury blend composed of 48% recycled silk, 36% fine merino wool, and 16% cashmere, offering a soft hand and premium feel. The yardage per skein is 224 yards at 25 grams. The pattern requires 13 to 17 skeins of yarn depending on the finished size selected (XS through L).

Needle requirements include multiple sizes and configurations to accommodate different sections of the garment. Knitters will need Size 5 (3.75 mm) circular needles in both 32-inch and 16-inch lengths, as well as Size 5 (3.75 mm) double-pointed needles for working smaller circumferences. Size 6 (4 mm) circular needles in 32-inch length and Size 6 (4 mm) double-pointed needles are also required. Additional tools include stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats and shaping increases, stitch holders for securing stitches during construction, two safety pins for securing live stitches, and a tapestry needle for weaving in ends and seaming if necessary.

Sizing and Gauge

The Ridge sweater is available in four sizes: XS, S, M, and L, with finished bust circumferences of 36, 38.5, 40.75, and 43.25 inches respectively. The pattern provides approximately 6.5 inches of positive ease. The gauge is 20 stitches and 28 rows over 4 inches when working the Chain Stitch pattern on the smaller needles (Size 5) with two strands of Pebble held together and after blocking. Achieving proper gauge is essential for obtaining the correct finished dimensions.

Skill Level and Learning Opportunities

This design is rated as Intermediate level, making it accessible to knitters with foundational skills who are ready to expand their technical abilities. The pattern notes that even experienced knitters will learn something new through the innovative construction methods and multi-directional stitch patterns employed in this pullover, making it an engaging project for knitters at various experience levels seeking to develop their craft.