Valley Yarns Danakil Knitting Pattern

Valley Yarns Danakil Pullover Sweater

What Is Being Made

The Danakil is an intermediate-level pullover sweater designed by Julie Turjoman. This garment features a distinctive architectural design with a pull-on neckline and unique front and back construction. The sweater is offered in eight sizes ranging from XS to 4XL, with finished bust measurements from 34½ inches to 62¼ inches. The design includes 4 to 6 inches of positive ease for a relaxed, comfortable fit.

Unique Design Features

The Danakil showcases thoughtful construction details that create visual interest and flattering shaping. The front of the sweater features a central garter ridge that extends from the base of the neckline down to the base of the bodice, where it opens to the hem. This creates an elegant vertical line while allowing for an open front design below the bust. The back is shaped with a deep inverted pleat worked in reverse stockinette stitch, which accentuates an A-line silhouette and creates fluid drape through the body. The ribbed sleeves provide room for layering, making this sweater versatile for different seasons and styling options.

Construction Techniques

The Danakil is worked flat on circular needles and features seamed construction. The sweater body is knitted in one piece in rows from the bottom up, allowing for efficient shaping and pattern integration. The construction method involves several key steps:

• The sweater body is worked as a single piece with shaping for the center inverted back pleat and edging for the fronts
• The fronts are joined together below the bust before dividing for the armholes
• This division allows for the pullover construction and proper sleeve cap integration
• The pleat interior is worked in reverse stockinette stitch to create textural contrast
• The depth of the inverted back pleat is balanced by the depth of the front opening below the bust
• Front and back pieces are joined at the shoulders using the Three-Needle Bind-Off method, a seaming technique that creates a strong, finished shoulder seam

Stitches Used

The Danakil incorporates several fundamental knitting stitches to create its distinctive appearance and structure:

• Stockinette Stitch: Used for the main body of the sweater, creating a smooth, classic knit fabric
• Reverse Stockinette Stitch: Used for the pleat interior on the back, providing textural contrast and visual definition
• Garter Stitch: Featured on the front as a central ridge from the neckline to the bodice base, adding structural interest and a raised vertical line
• K2/P2 Rib: Used for the sleeve cuffs and turtleneck, providing elasticity and a fitted finish that accommodates layering

Yarn and Materials

The Danakil pattern calls for Valley Yarns Westfield, a premium blend yarn composed of 60% Fine Merino Wool, 20% Yak, and 20% Silk. This fiber combination provides both warmth and an elegant surface sheen, making it ideal for a pullover sweater with refined drape. The yardage requirement varies by size, ranging from 11 balls (1,320 yards) for the smallest size to 23 balls (2,760 yards) for the largest size. Each ball contains 50 grams and 120 yards. The pattern shown is knitted in color 109 Persimmon.

Needles and Gauge

The Danakil requires two sizes of circular needles to accommodate different stitch patterns and create proper fabric density. US size 6 (4 mm) circular needles in both 16-inch and 32–40 inch lengths are used for the main body and stockinette sections, worked to a gauge of 22 stitches and 30 rows over 4 inches when blocked. US size 4 (3.50 mm) circular needles in the same length options are used for hems, cuffs, and the turtleneck ribbing, worked to a gauge of 24 stitches and 30 rows over 4 inches in K2/P2 Rib when blocked. Additional materials include stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats, stitch holders or waste yarn for holding stitches during construction, and a tapestry needle for seaming and weaving in ends.

Skill Level and Pattern Format

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