Durham sweater

Durham Sweater is the second of my patterns to be published in February 2016, this time in The Knitter, Issue 94.

Inspired by Norman craftsmen

The main stitch patterns on Durham were inspired by the large patterned pillars along the nave of Durham Cathedral. A cathedral guide told me that the patterns on the stone blocks in each pillar were carved before construction and that this was possible because there was only one block or two different blocks in each pillar.

The welts and neckband were inspired by the stonework patterns around the arched cathedral doors.

The perfect yarn

Not long after visiting Durham, I went to WonderWool Wales for the first time. I had so much fun seeing and squidging yarn that I’d only seen in photos. You know how it is; there’s so much choice and you really must buy some, but what to choose? Then, I saw Viola from John Arbon Yarns in a shade called Unpredictable; I knew it would be perfect for my Durham sweater design.

Viola is a beautiful soft double knit 100% merino yarn. It is worsted spun from blended dyed tops, which results in specks of different colours. It’s available in the following gorgeous shades.

 Durham sweater details

Durham sweater is knitted in rows using short-row shaping for the shoulders, which are then joined with a three-needle cast-off. Stitches are picked up around the neckline and the neckband knitted in the round, then the sleeves are attached and finally the side seams and underarm seams are stitched.

The pattern for Durham sweater is available in eight sizes: 90.5, 95.5, 100.5, 105.5, 110.5, 115.5, 120.5 and 125.5 cm chest (36, 38, 40, 42, 44, 46, 48 and 50 inch chest) with 7 cm positive ease.