Dipped hem sweater

Dipped Hem Sweater by Catherine Keaney

What is Being Made

The Dipped Hem Sweater is a knitted pullover garment designed by Catherine Keaney. This intermediate-level project features a distinctive asymmetrical hemline where one side of the front dips lower than the other, creating a modern, directional silhouette. The sweater is constructed using a multi-piece approach, with separate front and back sections that are assembled together. The base size is designed for a 32" bust measurement, with adjustable sizing options provided throughout the pattern.

Knitting Techniques Used

This sweater employs several intermediate knitting techniques to achieve its signature dipped hem design. The construction begins with cast-on increases, where new stitches are added directly onto the needle at the beginning of rows rather than using traditional increase methods. This technique creates the asymmetrical shaping of the front hem sections.

The pattern utilizes staggered increases, which are performed in a structured sequence to gradually expand the width of the fabric. These increases are worked at regular intervals across multiple rows, allowing the designer to control the rate and placement of shaping. The front sections are worked separately—a right side and left side—each with its own increase sequence, which is then combined to form the complete front panel.

Additional techniques include working with stitch holders to temporarily hold stitches while other sections are completed, and careful attention to row-by-row shaping instructions that vary based on the chosen size.

Stitches Used

• Knit (k): The fundamental stitch that creates the primary fabric texture
• Purl (p): Used in alternating rows to create stockinette stitch, the main fabric structure
• Knit two together (k2tog): A right-leaning decrease stitch for shaping
• Slip slip knit (ssk): A left-leaning decrease stitch used for balanced shaping
• Yarn over (yo): Creates decorative eyelet holes and is used for lace or textured details
• Bind off (bo): The finishing technique used to secure the final stitches and complete edges

Primary Stitch Pattern

The main fabric is worked in stockinette stitch, created by alternating knit rows on the right side with purl rows on the wrong side. This classic stitch pattern produces a smooth, flat fabric with a distinctive V-shaped texture on the front and horizontal bumps on the back. Stockinette stitch is ideal for sweater construction as it drapes well and showcases the yarn's color and texture.

Materials: Yarn and Needles

The Dipped Hem Sweater is designed to be worked with DK weight yarn, a medium-light yarn that creates a fabric with good drape and structure. DK (double knitting) weight yarn is versatile and works well for fitted garments like this sweater, allowing for detailed stitch definition while maintaining comfortable wear.

The pattern specifies a gauge of 20 stitches and 28 rows over 4 inches in stockinette stitch. This gauge is essential information for knitters, as matching the designer's gauge ensures the finished sweater will be the correct size and have the intended fabric characteristics. Knitters should select needles appropriate for their chosen yarn to achieve this gauge; DK weight typically works well with US sizes 4-6 (3.5-4mm) needles, though individual tension varies.

The pattern is provided as a downloadable PDF format, making it convenient for digital access and printing for reference during the knitting process.

Pattern Structure and Sizing

The pattern includes multiple size options, with the base directions written for a 32" bust measurement. Alternative measurements for other sizes are provided in brackets throughout the instructions, allowing knitters to customize the sweater to their specific measurements. This sizing flexibility makes the pattern accessible to a range of body types and preferences.