Vondelpark

Vondelpark Sweater by Martha Wissing Designs

What is Being Made

The Vondelpark is a women's knitted sweater designed by Martha Wissing. This intermediate-level project is available in five sizes ranging from X-Small to X-Large, with finished bust measurements from 32 inches (81 cm) to 48 inches (122 cm) and length measurements from 18 inches (46 cm) to 19.25 inches (49 cm). The garment features approximately 2 to 4 inches of positive ease, making it suitable for a comfortable, relaxed fit rather than a close-fitting silhouette.

Knitting Techniques

This sweater employs several fundamental knitting techniques appropriate for intermediate-level crafters. The construction utilizes circular knitting needles for working the body in the round, which is a common method for creating seamless garments. The pattern incorporates color work, as evidenced by the use of multiple yarn colors throughout the design. Double-pointed needles are employed for finishing sections such as the neckline, cuffs, or other areas where smaller circumferences require the transition from circular needles to dpns.

Stitches and Stitch Details

While specific stitch abbreviations are not detailed in the provided pattern excerpt, the gauge specification of 20 stitches over 4 inches (10.2 cm) in width and 30 rounds in height indicates the density of the knitted fabric. This gauge measurement is essential for achieving the correct finished measurements and is worked using size 7 (4.5 mm) needles for the main fabric. Ribbed sections, typically found at cuffs and hems, are likely worked on size 6 (4 mm) needles to create a tighter, more elastic finish.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The Vondelpark sweater is designed to be worked in Malabrigo Rios, a worsted-weight yarn. The pattern calls for three distinct colors: Ivy (color #138) and Hojas (color #880) serve as main colors, with yardage requirements of 2 to 3 hanks depending on size, while Bobby Blue (color #027) is used as a contrast color requiring 1 hank across all sizes. Each hank of Malabrigo Rios contains 100 grams and 210 yards of yarn. The total yardage needed ranges from approximately 840 yards for the smallest size to 1,470 yards for the largest size.

Needles and Notions

• Circular knitting needles in size 7 (4.5 mm) available in 16-inch, 24-inch, 32-inch, and 40-inch lengths for working the main fabric
• Circular knitting needles in size 6 (4 mm) available in 16-inch and 32-inch lengths for ribbed sections
• Double-pointed needles (dpn) in both size 6 (4 mm) and size 7 (4.5 mm) for finishing smaller circumferences
• Stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats and construction sections
• Stitch holders for securing stitches during garment assembly

Design Notes

The Vondelpark was published by Martha Wissing Designs in August 2019. As an intermediate-level pattern, it is suitable for knitters who have mastered basic techniques and are ready to work with color changes and circular needle construction. The use of multiple needle sizes and the color work element make this an engaging project for developing knitters seeking to expand their technical skills.