Valley Yarns Leicester Knitting Pattern

Valley Yarns Leicester Raglan Pullover

What Is Being Made

The Valley Yarns Leicester is a textured raglan pullover sweater designed by Julie Turjoman. This classic pullover features rugged good looks paired with clean styling, and includes distinctive moto-jacket detailing on the ribbed raglan shoulders. The sweater is designed to sit at mid-hip length and is available in sizes ranging from XS to 5XL, with finished chest measurements from 34¾ inches to 65¾ inches. The pullover is shown in Size M and fits with 2 to 4 inches of positive ease, making it suitable for layering.

Techniques Used

The Leicester pullover is constructed using several advanced knitting techniques appropriate for adventurous beginners. The sweater is worked in the round from the body up to the underarms, which creates a seamless construction in the body section. The bottom-up approach begins with a Long-Tail cast-on method and continues with circular knitting. Long set-in sleeves are worked separately from cuff to underarm with increase shaping, then joined to the body at the yoke. The moto-jacket rib detail begins at the start of sleeve raglan shaping and continues through the raglan after the sleeves are joined. Neckband stitches are picked up and worked from the finished neckline, completing the pullover with a professional finish.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The primary stitch pattern used throughout the Leicester is stockinette stitch, which provides excellent stitch definition and a clean, classic appearance. The textured elements of the design are created through ribbed stitching, particularly featured in the raglan shoulders and the distinctive moto-jacket rib detailing. The ribbed sections add both visual interest and functional structure to the garment. The neckband is also worked in ribbing to create a neat, stretchy finish at the neckline.

Materials and Yarn

The Leicester is designed to be worked with Valley Yarns Amherst, a premium yarn composed of 100% Merino Wool. The yarn is available in an extensive color palette; the pattern shown features the Balsam colorway. Yarn requirements vary by size, ranging from 11 balls for the smallest size (XS) to 20 balls for the largest size (5XL). Each ball of Valley Yarns Amherst contains 50 grams and yields 109 yards, providing ample yardage for this substantial pullover.

Needles and Tools

Construction of the Leicester requires two sizes of circular needles and double-pointed needles (dpn). The larger needles are US size 8 (5.00 mm) in 32 to 40 inch lengths and dpn, used for the main body and sleeves worked in stockinette stitch. The smaller needles are US size 6 (4.00 mm) in 32 to 40 inch and 16 inch circular lengths and dpn, used for ribbed sections including the cast-on edge and neckband. Needle size should be adjusted as needed to achieve the required gauge. Additional tools include stitch markers (including locking stitch markers or knitter's safety pins), stitch holders for managing stitches during construction, and a tapestry needle for finishing.

Gauge and Finished Dimensions

The pattern is worked to a gauge of 18 stitches and 28 rounds per 4 inches in stockinette stitch pattern using the larger size needle, measured after blocking. Achieving proper gauge is essential for the pullover to fit correctly across the chest and maintain the intended proportions. The finished chest measurements accommodate multiple sizes and include positive ease for comfortable wear and layering capability.