Shibui Knits Square Jumper Knitting Pattern

Shibui Knits Square Sweater

What is Being Made

The Shibui Knits Square is a sophisticated statement sweater designed by Shellie Anderson. This pullover features a distinctive high square neckline in the front that gracefully lowers toward the back, creating an elegant asymmetrical silhouette. The garment incorporates offset sheer side panels that add unexpected visual interest and refined sophistication to the classic design. Available in five sizes ranging from XS to XL, this sweater is designed to fit bust circumferences from 35 to 47 inches.

Techniques Used

This sweater is constructed using a bottom-up seamed method, with all pieces worked flat on straight needles rather than in the round. The front and back panels are knitted separately from the bottom edge upward, then seamed together at the sides and shoulders. Two sheer side panels are knitted independently and strategically inserted between the front and back pieces along each side seam to create the garment's distinctive design element.

The pattern incorporates short-row shaping to create the asymmetrical neckline. This advanced shaping technique uses wrap-and-turn methods to build the high front and lower back without adding bulk, allowing for smooth transitions and a polished finish. A 3-Needle Bind-Off technique is employed to join shoulders, creating a secure and professional seam closure.

Stitches Used

The primary stitch throughout the garment is Stockinette Stitch (St st), which creates the smooth, classic fabric base. The sheer side panels utilize an open, lacy construction that contrasts beautifully with the solid stockinette body. Slip-stitch techniques are used at edges for a refined selvage finish.

Materials and Yarn

The Shibui Knits Square offers two distinct yarn options, each providing different aesthetic and performance characteristics:

• Option A: Combines Shibui Linen (100% linen, 246 yards per 50g skein) with Shibui Pebble (48% recycled silk, 36% fine merino, 16% cashmere, 224 yards per 25g skein). This option requires 3 skeins of Linen and 3 skeins of Pebble for sizes XS through M, increasing to 4 skeins of each for sizes L and XL.
• Option B: Pairs Shibui Linen (100% linen, 246 yards per 50g skein) with Shibui Cima (70% superbaby alpaca, 30% fine merino, 328 yards per 50g skein). This combination requires 3 skeins of Linen for sizes XS through M, increasing to 4 skeins for sizes L and XL, paired with 2 skeins of Cima for smaller sizes and 3 skeins for larger sizes.

Both options are worked by holding one strand of Linen together with either Pebble or Cima throughout the garment, creating a sophisticated blend of fibers. The linen provides structure and breathability, while the second yarn adds luxury and drape. The pattern is shown in Ivory colorway.

Needles and Gauge

The sweater is knitted on US Size 6 (4 mm) needles, or the size needed to obtain proper gauge. A spare size 6 needle is required for the 3-Needle Bind-Off shoulder closure.

Gauge is critical for proper fit and varies slightly depending on yarn combination. When working with one strand of Linen and one strand of Pebble or Cima held together, the target gauge is 21 stitches and 30 rows over 4 inches in Stockinette Stitch after blocking. When working with Linen alone, the gauge is 22 stitches and 28 rows over 4 inches after blocking.

Additional Tools and Notions

Beyond needles, the project requires stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats and shaping points, a stitch holder for temporarily securing stitches during construction, and a tapestry needle for seaming pieces together and weaving in yarn ends. Contrasting thread or yarn is recommended for marking wrap points during short-row shaping, making it easier to identify and pick up wraps when completing the short rows.

Skill Level and Finished Dimensions

This pattern is rated as Easy skill level, making it accessible to knitters with basic competency in fundamental techniques. The finished dimensions provide generous ease: