Universal Yarn Tenno Jumper Knitting Pattern

Universal Yarn Tenno Sweater

What is Being Made

The Tenno is a feminine pullover sweater designed by Amy Gunderson. This downloadable knitting pattern produces a classic crew-neck pullover available in eight sizes ranging from Extra Small to 4X, with finished bust measurements from 35¼" to 63¼" and lengths from 24" to 27¾". The sweater is shown modeled in Small size with 7¼" of positive ease for a comfortable, relaxed fit.

Construction Technique

The Tenno sweater is worked seamlessly in the round from the bottom up, eliminating the need for seaming and creating a smooth, professional finish. The pattern begins with a decorative ruffle at the hem, which is worked flat and then picked up from the wrong side to create a distinctive ridge detail on the right side of the finished garment. After the ruffle decreases, the upper body stitches are picked up and knitting continues in the round. The body is worked in stockinette stitch until the armholes, where the front and back are separated for continued shaping. This construction method makes the Tenno an excellent TV-knitting project due to the extensive stockinette stitch sections that require minimal pattern attention.

Stitches and Stitch Techniques

The primary stitch used throughout the Tenno is stockinette stitch (knit every round when working in the round), which creates the smooth, classic fabric base. The decorative ruffle hem features alternating rounds of purl and knit stitches, including ribbing (K1, P1 ribbing) to add textural interest at the garment's lower edge. The pattern incorporates a sloped bind-off technique for a refined edge finish, where stitches are slipped and passed over in a graduated manner rather than bound off uniformly. Decreases are worked using K2tog (knit two together) and K3tog (knit three together) techniques to shape the armholes and neckline.

Materials and Tools

The Tenno is designed to be knitted with Fibra Natura Papyrus yarn, a luxurious blend of 78% cotton and 22% silk that provides breathability and subtle sheen ideal for a spring garment. The pattern calls for 11 to 21 balls of yarn depending on size, with each ball containing 50 grams and 131 yards. Knitters will need US Size 6 (4 mm) circular needles in both 16" and 32" lengths, along with a set of double-pointed needles (dpns) or additional circular needles for working small circumferences. Additional notions include stitch markers to denote pattern sections and side seams, stitch holders for temporarily holding stitches, and a tapestry needle for weaving in yarn ends. The recommended gauge is 20 stitches by 27 rows over 4 inches in stockinette stitch using the larger needle, and checking gauge before beginning is essential for achieving the correct finished measurements.