Valley Yarns Larch Knitting Pattern

Valley Yarns Larch Pullover Sweater

What is Being Made

The Valley Yarns Larch is a casual crewneck pullover sweater designed by Julie Turjoman for intermediate knitters. This boxy, relaxed-fit sweater is engineered as an ideal layering piece for winter activities, featuring a generous 4 to 6 inches of positive ease. The design showcases a dramatic diamond twist texture pattern on the front bodice that transitions to seed stitch detailing, creating visual interest and depth throughout the garment. Available in sizes XS through 5XL, with finished bust measurements ranging from 35 inches to 67¼ inches, this sweater accommodates a wide range of body types.

Techniques Used

The Larch employs multiple construction techniques to achieve its polished, professional finish. The sweater is worked flat in pieces from the bottom up, allowing knitters to work back and forth in rows rather than in the round for most sections. Short-row shaping is incorporated at the shoulders to enhance the fit and create a more tailored neckline. Pieces are joined together using the 3-needle bind-off technique, a seaming method that creates a strong, invisible seam between shoulder sections. The sleeves are worked in the round from the armholes downward, providing a different construction approach that streamlines the sleeve cap shaping. This combination of flat and circular knitting techniques demonstrates intermediate-level construction skill.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

Three distinct stitch patterns work in concert throughout the Larch design:

• Twist Stitch Diamond Pattern: The focal point of the sweater, this deeply textured pattern is worked across the front bodice and lower body. The twist stitch creates a dimensional, cable-like appearance without requiring cable needles. Gauge for this pattern is 21 stitches and 25 rows over 4 inches when blocked.
• Seed Stitch: This classic textured stitch frames the twist stitch diamond and appears throughout the design as edging on hems, the upper body, neckband, and as centered panels on the sleeves. Seed stitch creates a bumpy, reversible fabric with excellent drape. Gauge for seed stitch is 18 stitches and 30 rows over 4 inches when blocked.
• Stockinette Stitch: Used as framing around the seed stitch panels on the sleeves, stockinette provides smooth contrast to the textured elements. Gauge for stockinette is 19 stitches and 26 rows over 4 inches when blocked.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The Larch is designed to be knit in Valley Yarns Peru, a luxurious yarn blend composed of 84% baby alpaca, 8% merino wool, and 8% nylon. This sumptuous fiber content ensures the sweater knits up quickly while providing exceptional warmth and softness. Each ball contains 50 grams and 120 yards of yarn. Yarn requirements range from 8 balls for the smallest size (XS) to 18 balls for the largest size (5XL), with the sample shown knit in Color 11 Frost, a neutral shade suitable for versatile styling.

Needles and Tools

Knitters will need US size 9 (5.5 mm) circular needles in both 16-24 inch and 32-40 inch lengths, as well as double-pointed needles in the same size for working the sleeves in the round. US size 8 (5.00 mm) circular needles and double-pointed needles in 16 inch and 32-40 inch lengths are required for working the hems and cuffs at a tighter gauge. Additional tools include stitch markers, locking stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats, stitch holders or waste yarn for holding stitches, and a tapestry needle for weaving in ends and seaming.

Skill Level and Fit Considerations

Rated as an intermediate project, the Larch requires familiarity with multiple knitting techniques including working flat and in the round, reading stitch patterns, executing short-row shaping, and seaming pieces together. The sweater is designed with a generous fit, and knitters desiring additional ease are advised to work one size larger than their typical size. The relaxed silhouette makes it particularly suitable for layering over long-sleeved shirts or lightweight base layers during cooler months.