Valley Yarns Pinney Knitting Pattern

Valley Yarns Pinney Pullover Sweater

What Is Being Made

The Valley Yarns Pinney is a striking pullover sweater designed by Susan Baron that features an innovative approach to ribbing placement. This knit sweater showcases a unique directional design that "turns the world on its side" with its distinctive ribbed pattern work. The pullover is designed to fit with 2-3 inches of positive ease at the bust and falls to the mid-hip, making it a versatile layering piece. Available in sizes XS through 4XL, with finished bust measurements ranging from 35 inches to 58 inches, the Pinney accommodates a wide range of body types.

Techniques Used

The Pinney employs seamed construction and is worked flat on circular needles, making it an accessible project for knitters who prefer working back and forth rather than in the round. The sweater incorporates several essential shaping techniques including armhole shaping with strategic bind-offs and decrease rows worked on the right side to create fitted edges. The pattern utilizes wrap and turn (W&T) techniques and make one increases (M1L) for precise shaping. Seaming is required to join the pieces together after individual components are completed, which allows for easier customization and fit adjustments during construction.

Stitches Used

The Pinney primarily features stockinette stitch as the main fabric, which creates a smooth, classic knit surface. Ribbing is a central design element, worked in a directional manner that distinguishes this design. The pattern incorporates standard decreases including knit 2 together (K2tog) and slip, slip, knit (ssk) for shaping the armholes and side seams. Bind-off techniques are used to create clean edges, particularly at the armhole openings. The combination of these stitches creates a garment with both visual interest and structural integrity.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The Pinney is designed to be knit with Valley Yarns Northfield, a premium blend yarn composed of 70% Merino Wool, 20% Baby Alpaca, and 10% Silk. This fiber composition creates a soft and comfortable sweater suitable for year-round wear. Yarn requirements range from 10 balls for the smallest size (XS) to 19 balls for the largest size (4XL), with each ball containing 50 grams and 124 yards. The sample shown in the pattern is knit in Color 32 - Honey Gold, a warm, neutral tone.

Needles and Gauge

The pattern calls for US size 6 (4mm) circular needles measuring 24-32 inches for the main fabric, with a US size 5 (3.75mm) circular needle measuring 24 inches for ribbed sections. The recommended gauge is 22 stitches and 28 rows over 4 inches in stockinette stitch when worked with the US size 6 needle and blocked. Achieving proper gauge is essential for obtaining the correct finished measurements and fit.

Additional Materials

Beyond yarn and needles, the Pinney requires stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats and shaping points, stitch holders or waste yarn for holding stitches during construction, and a tapestry needle for seaming the finished pieces together and weaving in ends.

Difficulty Level

Rated as Adventurous Beginner to Intermediate, the Pinney is suitable for knitters with some experience who are ready to tackle shaping techniques and seamed construction. The pattern requires understanding of increases, decreases, armhole shaping, and assembly, making it an excellent project for developing intermediate-level skills.