Tahki Yarns Shannon Pullover Knitting Pattern

Tahki Yarns Shannon Pullover

What Is Being Made

The Shannon Pullover is an experienced-level knitted sweater designed by Rosemary Drysdale. This pullover is available in six sizes ranging from Small to 3X, with finished bust measurements from 34 inches (86.5 cm) to 54 inches (137 cm) and lengths from 22½ inches (57 cm) to 25 inches (63.5 cm). The garment features a classic pullover construction with a crew neckline and is worked primarily in stockinette stitch with a decorative Fair Isle color pattern section.

Techniques Used

The Shannon Pullover employs multiple knitting techniques suitable for advanced knitters. The garment is worked flat on straight needles, meaning pieces are knitted separately and later seamed together for assembly. The pattern incorporates Fair Isle colorwork, a traditional stranded knitting technique where multiple yarn colors are carried across the back of the work to create a patterned design. The pattern specifically notes the importance of loosely stranding the unused color across the back to maintain even tension throughout the Fair Isle sections. Additionally, the neckline is finished using a circular needle for picking up and working stitches in the round, allowing for a neat, finished edge.

Stitches Used

• Stockinette Stitch (St st) – The primary stitch used throughout most of the garment, creating a smooth, classic knit fabric
• K2, P2 Rib – A knit two, purl two ribbed stitch used for the cuffs and waistband, providing elasticity and a finished appearance. This rib is worked over a multiple of 4 stitches plus 2, alternating knit and purl stitches in rows
• Fair Isle Pattern – A stranded colorwork technique worked from Chart A, incorporating multiple yarn colors to create a decorative pattern section on the front of the pullover

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The Shannon Pullover is knitted using Tahki Yarns Donegal Tweed, a 100% pure new wool yarn. The project requires 4 to 7 skeins depending on size, with each skein containing 3.5 ounces (100 grams) and 183 yards (167 meters) of yardage. The main color is #884 light gray (A), with accent colors including #873 burnt orange (B), #851 bright olive (C), and #802 light teal (D). One skein each of the three accent colors is required for the Fair Isle pattern.

Needles and Notions

The pattern calls for two pairs of straight needles: size 9 (5.5mm) needles for the main stockinette stitch sections and size 10 (6mm) needles for working the ribbed cuffs and waistband. A size 9 (5.5mm) circular needle measuring 16 inches (40 cm) is used for the neckline finishing. Additional supplies include a stitch marker, stitch holders for holding stitches during construction, and a yarn needle for seaming and weaving in ends.

Gauge

The pattern specifies a gauge of 15 stitches and 22 rows over 4 inches (10 cm) in stockinette stitch using the smaller size 9 (5.5mm) needles. Checking gauge before beginning is essential to ensure the finished garment matches the intended measurements.