Valley Yarns Irena Pullover Knitting Pattern

Valley Yarns Irena Pullover by Fiona Ellis

What is Being Made

The Irena Pullover is an elegant knitted sweater designed by Fiona Ellis, available in seven sizes ranging from 34" to 52" bust measurement. This intermediate-level pullover features a sophisticated design with graphic eyelet patterning at both the hem and neckline, creating a refined aesthetic suitable for everyday wear or special occasions.

Finished Measurements

The sweater is offered in the following finished bust measurements: 34", 36", 40½", 44", 47", 50", and 52" inches. Length varies by size from 23" to 27" inches, providing options for different body proportions and style preferences.

Techniques Used

The Irena Pullover is constructed using a bottom-up seamed method, meaning pieces are knitted from the lower edge upward and then sewn together. The garment is worked flat on straight needles rather than in the round, allowing for easier stitch manipulation and pattern work. The design incorporates lace techniques through eyelet patterning, which creates decorative openwork sections. The sleeves feature a dramatic mock cable design flanking the main eyelet pattern panels, adding visual interest and textural depth to the finished piece.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The primary fabric is worked in Stockinette stitch, which creates a smooth, classic knit surface. The pattern also utilizes Seed stitch for textural contrast, particularly at the neckline. Seed stitch is worked over both even and odd numbers of stitches, alternating knit and purl stitches to create a bumpy, textured fabric. The eyelet lace pattern is defined by Chart A, which is repeated multiple times across the body and sleeves. The Mock Cable stitch panel (worked over 3 stitches) creates the illusion of twisted cables through a simple four-row repeat: a slip-knit-pass-slipped-stitch decrease on Row 1, a yarn over increase on Row 2, followed by stockinette rows. This creates a dramatic visual effect without the complexity of true cable knitting.

Materials and Yarn

The Irena Pullover requires Valley Yarns Northfield yarn, a premium blend composed of 70% Merino wool, 20% Baby Alpaca, and 10% Silk. This luxurious fiber combination provides softness, breathability, and subtle sheen. The yardage required ranges from 9 to 15 skeins depending on size, with each skein containing 124 yards and weighing 50 grams. The pattern sample shown is worked in Light Gray, a versatile neutral colorway.

Needles and Gauge

The pattern calls for US size 6 (4.00mm) needles for the main body and sleeves, with a 16" circular needle in the same size reserved for the neckband ribbing. The specified gauge is 22 stitches and 30 rows per 4 inches in Stockinette stitch, which is essential for achieving the correct finished measurements. Additional materials include stitch markers to help track pattern repeats and shaping.

Construction Details

The back piece is cast on and worked downward with careful shaping at the neckline, including decreases worked over 15 rows to create a refined neck opening. The eyelet pattern from Chart A is integrated into the body, repeated across the width with stockinette sections between repeats. Armhole and shoulder shaping are worked using bind-offs at the beginning of rows. The sleeves feature the distinctive mock cable panels flanking the eyelet pattern, creating a coordinated yet visually distinct design element from the body. The neckline receives a finished edge worked in Seed stitch and garter ridge, providing a polished, professional appearance.