Driftwood, Sand, and Sky Hoodie

Driftwood, Sand, and Sky Hoodie by Lena Mathisson

What Is Being Made

The Driftwood, Sand, and Sky Hoodie is a knitted pullover sweater featuring a hood, designed by independent designer Lena Mathisson. This garment is available in an extensive range of sizes from XS through 5X, with finished bust measurements spanning from 33 inches (83 cm) to 64 inches (160 cm), making it accessible for a wide variety of body types and fit preferences.

Craft and Primary Technique

This project is created using knitting as the primary craft method. The pattern is classified as a beginner-level project, making it an excellent choice for knitters who are new to garment construction or those looking to expand their skills with a wearable design. The hoodie construction involves working in the round using circular needles, a fundamental technique in modern knitting that creates seamless, tubular fabric.

Stitches and Construction Methods

The primary stitch used throughout this hoodie is stockinette stitch, which creates a smooth, classic fabric with a distinctive V-pattern texture on the right side. Stockinette stitch is achieved by alternating knit and purl rows when working flat, or by knitting every round when working in the round. This fundamental stitch provides an excellent canvas for showcasing the yarn's color and texture while remaining accessible to beginner knitters.

The pattern employs circular needle construction for the main body sections, which allows knitters to work seamlessly in the round and eliminates the need for seaming. This technique reduces finishing work and creates a more polished final garment. The hood is integrated into the overall design, requiring careful attention to shaping and decreasing to achieve proper fit and drape.

Yarn and Materials

The recommended yarn for this project is Fidley Dyeworks SW Merino DK, a 100% wool yarn in the DK (double knit) weight category. Each 100-gram skein contains 231 yards (211 meters) of yarn. Depending on the size being knitted, the pattern requires between 5 and 8 skeins, with total yardage ranging from 950 meters (1000 yards) for the smallest size to 1600 meters (1700 yards) for the largest size.

The pattern notes that other wool or wool-blend DK-weight yarns are suitable alternatives to the specified yarn, providing flexibility for knitters who may have different yarn preferences or availability. DK-weight yarn is a versatile mid-weight option that knits up relatively quickly while still providing good stitch definition and fabric stability.

Needles and Gauge

This hoodie requires two sizes of circular needles: US 8 (5.0 mm) and US 9 (5.5 mm), with the smaller size used for ribbed edgings and the larger size for the main body fabric. Knitters should select needle sizes to achieve the specified gauge before beginning the project. The recommended needle length is 24 inches (60 cm) for sizes XS, S, and M.

The target gauge for this pattern is 18 stitches and 24 rows to 4 inches (10 cm) in stockinette stitch before blocking. Achieving proper gauge is essential for obtaining the correct finished measurements and fit. Knitters are advised to knit a gauge swatch, measure it carefully, and adjust needle sizes as needed before committing yarn to the full project. Blocking the gauge swatch before measurement ensures accuracy, as many yarns change dimensions slightly after wet blocking.

Pattern Format and Accessibility

This pattern is available as a downloadable PDF file, allowing knitters to access the complete instructions, schematics, and sizing information digitally. The pattern includes a detailed schematic on page 12 showing all finished dimensions, and important sizing guidance is provided on page 3 to help knitters select the appropriate size for their desired fit.