Sonoran Sweater in Rowan Creative Linen, Kidsilk Haze, Summerlite DK & 4ply

Sonoran Sweater by Lisa Richardson

What is Being Made

The Sonoran Sweater is an intermediate-level crochet garment designed to fit chest measurements ranging from 71–81 cm (28–32 in) up to 152–157 cm (60–62 in). This pullover sweater features a structured construction with a back panel that forms the foundation of the design, worked from a chain foundation using double crochet stitches as the base technique.

Crochet Techniques Used

The Sonoran Sweater employs several key crochet techniques to create visual interest and texture:

• Double Crochet (dc) – Forms the primary fabric structure throughout the garment, creating a dense, stable base
• Treble Crochet (tr) – Introduced in later rows to add height and variation to the stitch pattern
• Crossed Treble (Cr2tr) – A decorative stitch that crosses two trebles over adjacent stitches, creating a diagonal textured effect that repeats across the body
• Color Joining and Breaking Off – Yarns are joined and broken off as required throughout the pattern, allowing for seamless color transitions in the striped design
• Multi-Yarn Doubling – Certain yarns are worked double (two strands held together) to adjust weight and drape, particularly with the finer Summerlite 4ply and Kidsilk Haze yarns

Stitch Pattern and Stripe Sequence

The sweater is constructed using a 17-row repeat stripe sequence that cycles through different yarn colors and weights. The pattern alternates between:

• Rows worked entirely in double crochet for solid fabric sections
• Rows featuring the crossed treble motif, which appears as groups of 5 crossed trebles separated by 10 double crochet stitches
• Strategic color changes using yarns A, B, C, D, and E across the sequence
• Rows 1–2 introduce the crossed treble texture pattern
• Row 3 returns to solid double crochet in yarn A
• Row 4 uses doubled yarn E for a lighter, airier row
• Row 5 introduces treble crochet with additional crossed treble motifs

This 17-row sequence repeats throughout the garment to create consistent patterning across all sizes.

Materials: Yarn and Needles

The Sonoran Sweater is constructed using a carefully curated blend of Rowan yarns in varying weights and fiber contents:

• Yarn A – Rowan Creative Linen in Natural (color 621) – A natural linen yarn used in 100 gm quantities (3–5 balls depending on size)
• Yarn B – Rowan Creative Linen in Straw (color 622) – A warm, neutral linen shade used in 2–3 balls per size
• Yarn C – Rowan Summerlite DK in Mocha (color 451) – A lighter-weight yarn in a warm brown tone, used in 2–3 balls per size
• Yarn D – Rowan Summerlite 4ply in Touch of Gold (color 439) – A fine 4-ply yarn worked double throughout, requiring 3–6 balls depending on size
• Yarn E – Rowan Kidsilk Haze in Heavenly (color 592) – A delicate, lofty yarn worked double throughout, used in 3–4 balls per size

The combination of Creative Linen, Summerlite DK, Summerlite 4ply, and Kidsilk Haze creates a complex blend of textures and weights. The use of doubled strands with the finer 4ply and Kidsilk Haze yarns allows for greater control over fabric density and drape while maintaining the intended garment structure.

Crochet Hook: A 4.50mm (US 7) crochet hook is used throughout the pattern to work all yarns and yarn combinations.

Construction Details

The back panel begins with a foundation chain worked in yarn C using the 4.50mm hook. The number of chains varies by size, ranging from 71 chains for the smallest size (71–81