Tahki Yarns Reed Knitting Pattern

Tahki Yarns Reed Sweater Pattern Summary

Garment Overview

The Reed is an intermediate-level knitted sweater designed by Joan Beebe, available in six sizes ranging from XSmall to 2X. This classic pullover features a refined construction with bust measurements from 29½ inches to 56 inches and finished lengths between 23 and 27 inches, making it a versatile wardrobe piece suitable for various body types and style preferences.

Construction Method and Techniques

The Reed sweater is constructed using a bottom-up, worked-flat approach, meaning the body and sleeves are knitted separately from the bottom edge upward, then seamed together. This traditional method allows for precise shaping and easier adjustments during the knitting process. The pattern incorporates cable and lace techniques to create visual interest and texture throughout the garment, elevating it beyond basic stockinette stitch construction.

The sweater features an A-line shaping that creates a flattering silhouette with strategic increases and decreases. The lower edges of the back, front, and sleeves employ a slip-stitch selvage edge technique, where the first stitch of every row is slipped purlwise, creating a neat, professional finish ideal for seaming. The neckband is worked separately using a circular needle, ensuring a clean, finished neck opening.

Stitches and Stitch Details

The primary stitch used throughout the Reed is stockinette stitch, which creates a smooth, classic fabric. The pattern incorporates a special abbreviation called RWC (Right Wrap Cross), a decorative stitch technique where the right needle is inserted into the second stitch on the left needle from left to right, pulled over the first stitch, and then both stitches are knitted together. This creates an elegant crossed-stitch detail that adds sophistication to the design.

Shaping is accomplished through standard decreasing methods, including k2tog (knit two together) and ssk (slip, slip, knit) decreases on right-side rows. The armhole shaping involves strategic bind-offs at the beginning of rows followed by gradual decreases to create properly fitted sleeve caps. The neckline shaping uses centered decreases with stitch markers to maintain symmetry.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The Reed pattern calls for Tahki Yarns VERMONT, a premium blend consisting of 50% merino wool and 50% superfine alpaca. This luxurious fiber combination provides warmth, breathability, and a soft hand. The yarn is supplied in balls of 1.75 ounces (50 grams) with 93 yards (85 meters) per ball. The pattern requires 9 to 16 balls depending on size, with the sample shown in color #116 natural, a versatile neutral shade.

Needles and Tools

The Reed requires size 9 (5.5 mm) straight needles for the main body and sleeves, with size 10 (6 mm) needles as an alternative if gauge adjustment is needed. A size 9 (5.5 mm) circular needle measuring 16 inches (40 cm) is used specifically for the neckband. Additional tools include stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats and shaping points, stitch holders for temporarily securing stitches, a yarn needle for seaming and weaving in ends, and eight ⅞-inch (22 mm) buttons for closure details.

Gauge and Sizing

The pattern specifies a gauge of 18 stitches and 22 rows over 4 inches (10 centimeters) when worked in stockinette stitch with the larger size 10 (6 mm) needles. Achieving proper gauge is essential for obtaining the correct finished measurements and fit. The pattern emphasizes checking gauge before beginning, as even small variations can significantly affect the final garment dimensions across the six available sizes.