Tahki Yarns Ash Knitting Pattern

Tahki Yarns Ash Knitted Sweater

What is Being Made

The Ash pattern is a classic knitted sweater designed by John Brinegar. This garment is available in four sizes—Small, Medium, Large, and Extra Large—with finished bust measurements ranging from 32 inches (81.5 cm) to 44 inches (112 cm) and lengths from 25 to 27 inches (63.5 to 68.5 cm). The sweater is an easy-level knitting project suitable for knitters with basic skills, making it an accessible choice for those looking to create a timeless wool pullover.

Techniques Used

The Ash sweater is constructed using bottom-up seamed construction, meaning the pieces are knitted from the lower edges upward and then assembled together. The garment is worked flat on straight needles rather than in the round, with the exception of the collar which is worked circularly. This traditional approach involves knitting separate pieces—front, back, and sleeves—which are then blocked to measurements and carefully seamed together. The finishing process includes sewing shoulder seams, attaching sleeves, and closing sleeve seams for a polished, professional appearance.

Stitches Used

The primary stitch throughout the Ash sweater is Stockinette Stitch (knit on right-side rows and purl on wrong-side rows), which creates the classic smooth, V-textured fabric characteristic of traditional sweaters. The pattern incorporates decreases using two fundamental techniques: K2tog (knit 2 together) and Ssk (slip, slip, knit). These decreases are strategically placed to shape the armholes and shoulders, with decrease rows repeated at regular intervals to achieve the proper fit. The collar is worked using a circular needle in the round, maintaining continuity and creating a seamless neckline.

Materials and Gauge

The Ash sweater is knitted with Tahki Yarns Montana, a premium yarn composed of 100% pure new wool. Depending on size, the project requires between 6 and 8 hanks of yarn, with each hank containing 3.5 ounces (100 grams) and yielding 130 yards (120 meters). The recommended needle size is US 13 (9mm) for the main body pieces, with the same size used for the 24-inch (60 cm) circular needle required for the collar. Achieving the correct gauge is essential for proper fit: 10 stitches and 16 rows should measure 4 inches (10 cm) in Stockinette Stitch. Additional materials include stitch holders, stitch markers, and a yarn needle for weaving in ends and seaming pieces together.