Valley Yarns Milkweed Knitting Pattern

Valley Yarns Milkweed Knit Sweater

What is Being Made

The Valley Yarns Milkweed is a women's knit sweater designed by Julie Turjoman, featuring a flattering A-line silhouette with a longer back and shirttail hem. This intermediate-level garment is ideal for layering on chilly fall mornings and offers both warmth and style. The sweater includes practical set-in pockets and a V-neck opening, making it a versatile addition to any wardrobe. Available in sizes XS through 4XL, with finished bust measurements ranging from 34 inches to 62 inches, the Milkweed is designed to fit with 2 to 4 inches of positive ease for comfortable wear.

Techniques Used

The Milkweed is constructed using bottom-up knitting methodology, meaning the garment is worked from the lower edge upward. The sweater is worked flat on straight needles rather than in the round for most sections, then seamed together to create the finished garment. This approach allows for easier stitch pattern management and shaping. The pattern incorporates set-in sleeve construction and subtle A-line shaping throughout the body. Short-row shaping techniques are employed to create the longer back and shirttail hem detail that characterizes this design. The construction method ensures clean, professional seaming and allows knitters to easily customize fit through the positive ease measurements.

Stitches Used

The primary stitch pattern used throughout the Milkweed is an easily memorized textured stitch called Twist Stitch, which creates visual interest while remaining accessible to intermediate knitters. The pattern is straightforward enough to work without constant chart reference, making it ideal for knitters who prefer to focus on shaping and construction details. Stockinette stitch is also utilized in the pattern, providing smooth sections that contrast with the textured stitch work. Standard knitting abbreviations are employed throughout, including knit (K), purl (P), knit 2 together (K2tog), slip slip knit (SSK), and slip slip purl (SSP) for decreases. Wrap and turn (W&T) short-row techniques are used to create the distinctive longer back and shirttail hem shaping.

Materials: Yarn, Needles, and Notions

Yarn: The Milkweed is designed to be worked in Valley Yarns Amherst, a sturdy worsted weight yarn composed of 100% Merino wool. This natural fiber provides excellent warmth, breathability, and durability. The yarn is available in the Oatmeal colorway as shown in the pattern. Yardage requirements range from 981 yards (9 skeins × 109 yards) for the smallest size to 1,635 yards (15 skeins × 109 yards) for the largest size, with each skein weighing 50 grams.

Needles: The pattern requires US size 8 (5.00 mm) circular needles in both 16-inch and 24 to 40-inch lengths for the main fabric, along with US size 8 (5.00 mm) double-pointed needles for smaller circumference sections. Ribbing and finishing details are worked on US size 7 (4.50 mm) circular needles (16-inch and 24 to 40-inch) and US size 7 (4.50 mm) double-pointed needles. Needle sizes should be adjusted as needed to achieve the required gauge of 18 stitches and 24 rows over 4 inches in the textured stitch pattern when blocked.

Additional Notions: Beyond needles and yarn, the pattern requires stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats and shaping points, locking stitch markers for holding stitches, and a tapestry needle for seaming and weaving in ends. These basic notions are essential for successful completion of the garment and ensuring professional-quality construction.

Gauge and Fit

The recommended gauge for the Milkweed is 18 stitches and 24 rows over 4 inches when worked in the textured stitch pattern and blocked. Achieving proper gauge is essential for obtaining the correct finished measurements and ensuring the garment fits as designed. The pattern offers multiple size options with positive ease, allowing knitters to choose a size that provides comfortable, intentional room for layering and movement.