Bordeaux Sweater

Bordeaux Sweater by Natalie Smart

What is Being Made

The Bordeaux Sweater is a knitted pullover design created by independent designer Natalie Smart. This garment is a classic crew-neck sweater available in six sizes to fit bust measurements from 81cm to 107cm (32in to 42in). The sweater features a fitted silhouette with an actual bust measurement range of 84cm to 107cm (33in to 42in) and a length from shoulder of approximately 61.5cm to 66cm (24in to 26in), making it suitable for various body types and proportions.

Techniques Used

This intermediate-level knitting project employs fundamental sweater construction techniques. The pattern utilizes circular knitting needles for seamless or in-the-round construction, a modern approach that reduces finishing work. The design incorporates stitch markers to help track pattern repeats and shaping increases or decreases. Stitch holders are used to manage live stitches during construction, particularly useful when working on neckline shaping or sleeve cap details. The pattern requires careful tension gauge work to ensure proper fit across the six size options provided.

Stitches Used

The primary stitch structure is stocking stitch, which creates a smooth, classic fabric surface ideal for showcasing yarn color and texture. This fundamental knit stitch combination (knit on right-side rows, purl on wrong-side rows when working flat, or continuous knit stitches when working in the round) provides a refined, traditional sweater appearance. The pattern specifies a tension of 31 stitches and 42 rows to 10cm over stocking stitch, which is critical for achieving accurate sizing across all six garment sizes.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The Bordeaux Sweater is designed to be knitted using CaMaRose Yaku 4/16 yarn, a premium 100% Merino fiber available at 200 meters per 50-gram ball. The pattern calls for 5 to 7 balls depending on size selection, with the primary colorway being Bordeaux 1232 and a complementary Pudder 1232 shade also specified in the same quantities. This 4-ply yarn weight provides excellent stitch definition and drape suitable for a fitted sweater design.

Equipment Required

• Circular knitting needles in 2.5mm and 2.75mm sizes—the 2.75mm needles are used for the main fabric to achieve the specified tension gauge, while the 2.5mm needles are typically used for ribbed edgings
• Stitch markers (4 pieces minimum) for tracking pattern sections and shaping
• Stitch holders for securing live stitches during construction
• Row counter to track progress through pattern rows

Size Range and Fit

The pattern provides comprehensive sizing with six options ranging from extra-small through to extra-large. Sleeve seam length is consistent at 51cm (20in) across all sizes, while bust measurements and body length increase incrementally through the size range. This sizing structure allows knitters to select the appropriate size based on desired finished bust measurement rather than standard dress sizes, ensuring a customized fit.

Difficulty Level

Rated as an intermediate project, the Bordeaux Sweater assumes knitters have solid foundational skills including cast-on techniques, stocking stitch proficiency, and basic shaping through increases and decreases. The use of circular needles and stitch markers requires familiarity with these tools, though the straightforward stitch pattern makes it accessible to knitters progressing beyond beginner level who wish to expand their garment-making repertoire.