Taro Sweater in Rowan Creative Linen, Fine Lace & Kidsilk Haze

Taro Sweater in Rowan Creative Linen, Fine Lace & Kidsilk Haze

What is Being Made

The Taro Sweater is a knitted pullover garment designed by Lisa Richardson. This intermediate-level project is available in five size options to fit bust measurements ranging from 81–86 cm (32–34 in) through 122–127 cm (48–50 in), with actual finished bust measurements from 121 cm to 161 cm (47¾ to 63½ inches). The pattern also includes instructions for converting the design into a cardigan variation, offering versatility for knitters who prefer a button-front closure.

Techniques Used

This sweater employs a multi-yarn colorwork technique that creates visual interest through strategic yarn changes. The pattern uses three distinct yarns—Creative Linen, Fine Lace, and Kidsilk Haze—worked in a coordinated sequence to build texture and depth. Knitters will use double purl rows and make one (MK) increases to shape the fabric and create stitch pattern repeats. The construction includes shoulder shaping through strategic cast-offs worked over multiple rows, and back neck shaping with decreases at the neck edge combined with cast-off stitches to create a finished neckline. The front piece is worked to a specific row count less than the back before beginning its own shaping sequence, a common technique for creating proper garment proportions.

Stitches Used

• Knit stitch (K): The foundational stitch used throughout the garment
• Purl stitch (P): Worked in double purl rows to create textured sections
• Make one (MK): An increase stitch used to add stitches within the pattern repeat, creating shaping and stitch pattern definition
• Cast off: Used to bind off stitches during shoulder and neck shaping to finish edges

Materials

The Taro Sweater is crafted using Rowan yarns in three complementary fiber blends. For the sweater version, knitters choose from two colorway options: Lin Apple (Creative Linen), Lace Cameo (Fine Lace), and KSH Branch (Kidsilk Haze), or alternatively Lin Foggy (Creative Linen), Lace Cobweb (Fine Lace), and KSH Shadow (Kidsilk Haze) for the cardigan version. Yarn quantities vary by size, requiring 2 x 100gm balls of Creative Linen, 3–4 x 50gm balls of Fine Lace, and 6–8 x 25gm balls of Kidsilk Haze depending on the finished size selected.

The pattern calls for 4½mm (US 7) needles for the main garment construction. For the cardigan variation, a 4mm (US 6) circular needle measuring at least 140 cm in length is required, likely for working a button band or front edging. These needle sizes are appropriate for working with the three-yarn combination and achieving the intended fabric drape and stitch definition.