Valley Yarns Wheeler Knitting Pattern

Valley Yarns Wheeler Pullover Sweater

What is Being Made

The Wheeler is an elegant, airy pullover sweater designed by Julie Turjoman. This feminine piece features integrated short sleeves, a V-neck construction, and is worked in just two pieces that are later seamed together. The sweater is designed to be worn as an evening piece on its own or layered over a camisole. It is available in sizes XS through 5XL, with the sample shown in size 38" bust measurement and offering 2 to 4 inches of positive ease for a comfortable, relaxed fit.

Techniques Used

The Wheeler employs several key knitting techniques appropriate for intermediate-level crafters. The sweater is worked flat in two separate pieces rather than in the round, allowing for straightforward construction and seaming. The bottom-up construction method means you begin at the lower edge and work upward toward the shoulders and neckline. The two pieces are then seamed together to create the finished garment. The pattern utilizes a stretchy cast-on method, specifically the Old Norwegian Cast-On technique, which provides elasticity and flexibility to the initial stitches—particularly important for a garment worked with delicate, airy yarns. The V-neck shaping is integrated into the design, and short sleeves are worked as part of the main body pieces rather than being picked up and worked separately.

Stitches Used

The primary stitch throughout the Wheeler is Stockinette stitch, which creates the smooth, classic fabric surface characteristic of this elegant sweater. Standard knitting abbreviations are employed throughout the pattern, including knit (K), purl (P), knit two together (K2tog) for decreases, slip-slip-knit (ssk) for decreases, knit front and back (Kfb) for increases, and purl two together (P2tog). Decreases are strategically placed to shape the V-neck and armholes, while increases are used where shaping requires expansion. Stitch markers are used to denote pattern sections and shaping points, and a stitch holder is needed to hold stitches temporarily during construction.

Yarn and Materials

The Wheeler is worked using a luxurious two-yarn combination held together throughout. Yarn A is Valley Yarns Southampton, a blend of 72% Kid Mohair and 28% Mulberry Silk in the Cranberry colorway. This yarn is worked at 230 yards per 25-gram ball. The pattern requires 6 to 9 balls depending on size. Yarn B is Valley Yarns Hatfield, a 100% Baby Alpaca yarn in Cranberry, worked at 437 yards per 50-gram hank, requiring 3 to 5 hanks depending on size. By holding one strand of each yarn together, the pattern achieves a soft, airy fabric with beautiful drape and subtle texture.

Knitting needles required include US 6 (4mm) circular needles in both 16-inch and 32 to 40-inch lengths, as well as double-pointed needles (dpn) of the same size for working smaller circumferences. The gauge is 20 stitches and 30 rows over 4 inches in Stockinette stitch when working with one strand each of Yarn A and Yarn B held together and blocked. Additional materials needed are stitch markers, stitch holders for managing live stitches, and a tapestry needle for seaming and weaving in ends.

Sizing and Finished Measurements

The Wheeler is offered in nine sizes ranging from XS to 5XL. Finished bust measurements span from 34 inches in XS to 66 inches in 5XL, accommodating a wide range of body types. Hip measurements range from 39 to 71 inches across the size range. The pattern is designed to be worn with 2 to 4 inches of positive ease, meaning the finished garment will be slightly larger than your actual measurements for a comfortable, relaxed fit suitable for layering or wearing as a standalone piece.