Valley Yarns Andromeda Knitting Pattern

Valley Yarns Andromeda Puff-Sleeve Pullover

What Is Being Made

The Valley Yarns Andromeda is an intermediate-level knitted pullover sweater designed by Julie Turjoman. This garment features a dramatic statement silhouette with carefully shaped puff sleeves and a fitted waist. The pattern offers two length variations: a cropped version that ends at mid-hip and a tunic version for extended coverage. The design showcases a prominent cable pattern down the center front that provides both visual elegance and structural shaping to accentuate the waist and bust. With its scoop neckline and on-trend proportions, this pullover is particularly suited for warm-weather wear.

Techniques Used

The Andromeda is worked flat on circular needles, meaning the body pieces are knitted back and forth in separate sections rather than in the round. This approach allows for precise shaping control. The construction method involves:

• Waist and bust shaping worked into the body as it is knitted from hem to shoulders
• Short-row shoulder shaping to create proper shoulder fit and structure
• Seaming of all pieces after completion, which adds durability and structural integrity to the finished garment
• Careful sleeve shaping that mimics the bulb shape of the center cable pattern, creating the distinctive puff-sleeve silhouette

Stitches Used

The pattern primarily employs two stitch patterns:

• Stockinette stitch for the main body fabric, providing a smooth, classic knit surface
• Cable stitch for the dramatic center-front panel, which adds textural interest and visual impact

The cable work requires the use of a cable needle to create the twisted, rope-like texture that defines the garment's focal point.

Materials and Specifications

The Andromeda is designed to be knitted in Valley Yarns Westhampton, a luxurious 100% Pima cotton yarn that provides crisp stitch definition and a lightweight feel ideal for warm-weather garments. The yarn is available in the Denim colorway as shown in the pattern.

Yarn requirements vary by size and version:

• Cropped Version: 8 to 17 balls depending on size (XS through 5XL)
• Tunic Version: 9 to 20 balls depending on size (XS through 5XL)

Needles required:

• US size 5 (3.75mm) circular needles in both 16" and 32" lengths for main knitting
• US size 4 (3.50mm) circular needles in both 16" and 32" lengths for ribbing or edging

Additional materials needed:

• Cable needle for cable pattern work
• Four stitch markers in a unique color to track decreases and shaping
• Locking stitch marker for marking pattern repeats or key points
• Stitch holders to temporarily hold stitches during construction
• Tapestry needle for seaming pieces together and weaving in ends

Gauge and Sizing

Achieving proper gauge is essential for this fitted garment. The pattern specifies:

• Stockinette stitch gauge: 21 stitches and 28 rows over 4 inches on larger needles, blocked
• Cable stitch gauge: 24 stitches and 28 rows over 4 inches on larger needles, blocked

The Andromeda is available in nine sizes ranging from XS to 5XL, with finished bust measurements from 32¾ inches to 63¼ inches. The pattern is designed with 0 to 2 inches of positive ease at the bust for a fitted but comfortable silhouette. Both versions feature fitted shaping above the waist, with the tunic version providing additional length for those preferring extended coverage.