Tahki Yarns Rainier Knitting Pattern

Tahki Yarns Rainier Knitted Sweater

What Is Being Made

The Rainier is a knitted sweater designed by Rosemary Drysdale, available in six sizes ranging from Small to 3X. This garment features a classic pullover construction with finished bust measurements from 40½ inches (Small) up to 62 inches (3X), and length measurements ranging from 19½ to 24½ inches depending on size. The sweater is suitable for knitters of all skill levels, classified as an Easy project.

Knitting Techniques

The Rainier employs a bottom-up construction method, meaning the sweater is knitted starting from the lower edges and working upward toward the shoulders. The garment is worked flat on straight needles rather than in the round, with pieces later seamed together to form the finished sweater. The shoulders are joined using the Three-Needle Bind Off technique, a professional method that creates a secure, invisible seam while simultaneously binding off stitches. Sleeves are picked up from the armholes and worked downward, allowing for precise fit and ease of customization.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

This design incorporates two primary stitch patterns. The main fabric is worked in Stockinette Stitch (St st), the most fundamental knitting stitch that creates a smooth, classic appearance with characteristic V-shaped columns on the right side. The pattern also features Feather Faggot Stitch, an openwork lace pattern that repeats over a multiple of 4 stitches. The Feather Faggot Stitch is created using yarn overs and purl two together decreases, producing an elegant, delicate lace texture. The sweater begins with a ribbed cuff worked in a 2×2 rib pattern (alternating 2 knit stitches and 2 purl stitches), which provides stretch and helps the garment sit snugly at the edges.

Materials and Gauge

The Rainier is designed to be knitted with Tahki Yarns Everest, a premium blend yarn composed of 70% baby alpaca, 23% polyamide, and 7% merino wool. This fiber composition creates a soft, luxurious fabric with excellent drape and durability. The yarn is available in color #2 fawn. Pattern requirements range from 6 balls for the smallest size to 10 balls for the 3X size, with each ball weighing 1.75 ounces (50 grams) and containing 143 yards (131 meters) of yardage.

The pattern calls for size 9 (5.5mm) straight needles for the main body and sleeves, plus a size 9 (5.5mm) circular needle measuring 24 inches (60 centimeters) for working the neckband. Additional notions include stitch markers to denote pattern repeats and shaping points, stitch holders to temporarily secure stitches during construction, and a yarn needle for weaving in ends and seaming pieces together.

Proper gauge is essential for achieving the correct finished measurements. The pattern specifies a gauge of 15 stitches and 22 rows equals 4 inches (10 centimeters) in Stockinette Stitch, and 15 stitches and 24 rows equals 4 inches (10 centimeters) in Feather Faggot Stitch. Knitters are advised to take time to check their gauge before beginning, as variations in tension will affect the final garment dimensions.

Construction Details

The Back panel is cast on first and worked upward in Stockinette Stitch with ribbed edging. The Front follows the same construction method. Armholes are marked 7¼ to 9¾ inches down from the shoulders depending on size. Sleeves are picked up evenly around the armhole openings and worked downward with strategic decreases to create a tapered, fitted sleeve cap. The neckband is worked in the round using the circular needle, providing a professional finish to the neck opening.