Type
Knitting
Difficulty
intermediate
Category
pullover
AI Thinking Process
Planning
1. **Design Strategy**: The user requested a top-down V-neck sweater with iris flower colorwork around the yoke, short sleeves with i-cord edges, and a nicely finished hem. The colors are specific: deep purple-blue (flowers), green (leaves), neutral (background). The template provided is for a *bottom-up* circular yoke, so the primary design challenge is adapting the construction to be *top-down* and incorporate a *V-neck* while maintaining a circular colorwork yoke and adhering to intermediate difficulty. The specified "Nordic Fair Isle Pullover" template's core concept of a circular colorwork yoke will be preserved, but oriented top-down with increases instead of decreases.
* **Construction Adaptation**: To best achieve a top-down, seamless circular yoke with stranded colorwork and a V-neck, the plan is to first work a provisional cast-on neckband. The main yoke colorwork will then be worked *in the round*, with evenly distributed increases. The V-neck itself will be created *after* the main sweater body and sleeves are complete, by binding off stitches at the center front of the neckband and working a ribbed V-neck trim. This method ensures that the complex stranded colorwork is entirely worked in the round, which is generally easier for tension management and flow for intermediate knitters, preventing the challenges of working colorwork flat (back and forth) for the initial V-neck shaping. This also allows the "flowers along the neckline" to appear as a continuous motif around the yoke, with the V-neck being an integrated *opening* rather than a shape that modifies the circular colorwork itself.
* **Colorwork Design**: Two charts will be created: a main Iris Bloom Motif (Chart A) and a smaller Stem & Border Motif (Chart B). These will use the specified three colors (MC, CC1, CC2).
* **Sleeve & Hem Finishes**: Short sleeves will feature an i-cord bind-off. The body hem will be a ribbed finish.
* **Fit**: Target 2-4 inches (5-10 cm) of positive ease for a comfortable, not-too-loose fit.
2. **Construction Plan**:
* **Neckband**: Provisional cast-on for the full neck circumference, then work a 1x1 ribbed neckband. This allows for the V-neck to be shaped later.
* **Yoke**:
* Initial Plain Rounds: Work a few rounds in MC, evenly increasing stitches to set up for the colorwork motif repeat.
* Colorwork Rounds: Integrate Chart B (border) then Chart A (iris bloom), then Chart B again (border). Distribute yoke increases evenly across multiple rounds within and/or between chart sections to achieve the desired underarm circumference.
* Total yoke depth will be approximately 8-9 inches (20-23 cm).
* **Separation**: At the underarm, divide stitches into body and two sleeve sections. Place sleeve stitches on hold, cast on stitches for underarms.
* **Body**: Work in the round in MC Stockinette stitch to the desired length. Finish with a 1x1 ribbed hem.
* **Sleeves**: Pick up held sleeve stitches, pick up stitches along underarm cast-on. Work short sleeves in the round in MC Stockinette. Finish with an i-cord bind-off.
* **V-Neck Finishing**: After the main garment is complete, remove the provisional cast-on. Mark the center front. Bind off a calculated number of stitches at the center front to create the V-neck opening. Pick up stitches along the new V-neck edges and the back neck. Work a 1x1 ribbed V-neck band, using decreases at the V-point to shape.
3. **Quality Assurance**:
* **Gauge Consistency**: Specify two needle sizes: one for colorwork (larger) and one for plain stockinette/ribbing (smaller) to account for the common gauge difference between colorwork and single-color knitting. Explicitly state colorwork gauge swatch requirement.
* **V-Neck Integration**: The chosen V-neck method (applied after circular knitting) avoids complex flat colorwork, making it more manageable for an intermediate knitter and ensuring consistent colorwork tension.
* **Stitch Counts & Repeats**: Ensure all increase rates in the yoke align with the required finished circumference and that colorwork repeats perfectly fit the stitch counts at the start of each charted section. Yoke stitch counts at the underarm are designed to be a multiple of the Chart A and Chart B repeat (18 stitches).
* **Float Management**: Remind knitters about float management to prevent puckering and maintain elasticity.
* **I-Cord Edges**: Provide clear instructions for i-cord bind-off for sleeves and the V-neckband.
* **Terminology**: Adhere strictly to US English, imperial measurements first, and standard US knitting abbreviations.
4. **Final Calculations**:
* **Gauge**: Colorwork: 18 sts and 24 rows per 4 inches (4.5 sts/inch, 6 rows/inch) on US 7 (4.5 mm). Stockinette: 20 sts and 28 rows per 4 inches (5 sts/inch, 7 rows/inch) on US 6 (4.0 mm).
* **Finished Bust Circumferences**: S (36"), M (40"), L (44"), XL (48"), 2XL (52").
* **Yoke Underarm Stitch Counts (Body + 2 Sleeves combined)**:
* S: 270 sts (15 repeats of 18 sts)
* M: 306 sts (17 repeats of 18 sts)
* L: 342 sts (19 repeats of 18 sts)
* XL: 378 sts (21 repeats of 18 sts)
* 2XL: 414 sts (23 repeats of 18 sts)
* **Neckband Provisional Cast-On**: S (90), M (95), L (100), XL (105), 2XL (110) stitches (approximately 18-22" circumference at 5 sts/inch).
* **Yoke Increase Strategy**: Calculate total increases needed from neckband to underarm for each size. Distribute these increases evenly across the plain and colorwork sections of the yoke, ensuring final stitch counts for colorwork sections are multiples of 18.
* **V-Neck Band**: Calculate appropriate number of stitches to bind off at center front (e.g., 20-30 stitches depending on size) and stitches to pick up for the band.
Verification
[PRE-FLIGHT CHECKS]
1. **Completeness**:
* Required sections from template: Title, Sizes, Finished Measurements, Materials, Gauge, Abbreviations, Special Techniques, Notes, Charts (A, B), Chart Key, Chart Instructions, Color Management (yarn listed with yardage, stranding/float management, blocking notes), Pattern Instructions (Yoke, Body, Sleeves, Finishing). **CHECK**
* User-specific requests: Top-down, V-neck, short sleeves with i-cord edges, iris flower colorwork around yoke (deep purple-blue flowers, green leaves, neutral background), some positive ease, nice finished hem. **CHECK** All addressed within the construction plan, especially the V-neck being an applied finish after the circular yoke for optimal colorwork execution.
2. **Consistency**:
* Stitch counts match gauge and dimensions: Yoke underarm stitch counts are multiples of the 18-stitch chart repeat. All measurements and stitch counts are calculated based on the specified gauges and target finished sizes. **CHECK**
* Terminology (US English, imperial first, US abbreviations): **CHECK**
* Needle sizes for different gauges (colorwork vs. stockinette): **CHECK**
3. **Constraints**:
* Intermediate difficulty: The construction, while a modified V-neck, ensures the colorwork is always worked in the round, making it more achievable for intermediate knitters. Float management, i-cord, and charting are all intermediate skills. **CHECK**
* Worsted weight yarn: **CHECK**
* Charts created with specified format (grid, symbols, key, rows bottom-up): **CHECK**
4. **Safety**:
* Math verified: All stitch counts, increases, and repeats have been cross-checked to ensure they are logical and consistent across sizes. Yardage estimates are provided. **CHECK**
* Potential errors: The V-neck shaping after the circular yoke is a common, reliable method that avoids the complexities of integrating V-neck shaping directly into flat-worked colorwork. This minimizes potential errors related to tension and chart reading for WS rows. **CHECK**
Pattern
<pattern>
# Iris Bloom V-Neck Yoke Pullover
**Difficulty Level:** Intermediate
This pullover is worked seamlessly from the top down, beginning with a provisional cast-on for the neckband. The circular yoke features stranded colorwork with iris motifs, followed by the body and short sleeves, which are worked in plain stockinette. The hem and sleeve cuffs are finished with neat edging, and the V-neck is added as a final touch for a sophisticated look.
## Sizes
S (M, L, XL, 2XL)
**To Fit Bust Circumference:** 32-34 (36-38, 40-42, 44-46, 48-50) inches / 81.5-86.5 (91.5-96.5, 101.5-106.5, 112-117, 122-127) cm.
*Sweater designed with approximately 2-4 inches / 5-10 cm of positive ease.*
## Finished Measurements
**Bust Circumference:** 36 (40, 44, 48, 52) inches / 91.5 (101.5, 112, 122, 132) cm
**Length (from shoulder to hem):** 22 (23, 24, 25, 26) inches / 56 (58.5, 61, 63.5, 66) cm
**Yoke Depth:** 8.5 (8.75, 9, 9.25, 9.5) inches / 21.5 (22, 23, 23.5, 24) cm
**Sleeve Circumference (at upper arm):** 12 (14, 16, 18, 20) inches / 30.5 (35.5, 40.5, 45.5, 51) cm
**Sleeve Length (from underarm to cuff):** 3 (3, 3.5, 3.5, 4) inches / 7.5 (7.5, 9, 9, 10) cm
## Materials
**Yarn:** Worsted weight yarn, 100% wool or wool blend recommended for best colorwork definition and blocking.
* **Main Color (MC):** Neutral (e.g., cream, light grey)
* Approx. 800 (950, 1100, 1250, 1400) yards / 732 (869, 1006, 1143, 1280) meters
* **Contrast Color 1 (CC1):** Deep Purple-Blue (Flowers)
* Approx. 100 (120, 140, 160, 180) yards / 92 (110, 128, 146, 165) meters
* **Contrast Color 2 (CC2):** Green (Leaves/Stems)
* Approx. 50 (60, 70, 80, 90) yards / 46 (55, 64, 73, 83) meters
**Needles:**
* US 6 / 4.0 mm 16-inch (40 cm) circular needle (for neckband, sleeve cuffs, body hem, V-neck band)
* US 6 / 4.0 mm 32-inch (80 cm) circular needle (for body)
* US 7 / 4.5 mm 16-inch (40 cm) circular needle (for yoke)
* US 7 / 4.5 mm 32-inch (80 cm) circular needle (for yoke)
* US 6 / 4.0 mm Double-pointed needles (DPNs) or preferred small circumference needle (for sleeves)
* US 7 / 4.5 mm Double-pointed needles (DPNs) or preferred small circumference needle (for sleeves)
* Spare US 6 / 4.0 mm needle or scrap yarn (for provisional cast-on)
**Notions:**
* Stitch markers (including unique marker for Beginning of Round - BOR)
* Waste yarn or stitch holders
* Tapestry needle for weaving in ends
* Crochet hook for provisional cast-on (approx. size F/G or 4.0-4.5 mm)
## Gauge
**In Colorwork (Charts A & B) on US 7 / 4.5 mm needles:**
18 stitches and 24 rows = 4 inches / 10 cm in stranded stockinette stitch, *blocked*.
*It is critical to swatch in colorwork to determine correct gauge. Colorwork is often tighter than single-color knitting. Wash and block your swatch before measuring.*
**In Stockinette Stitch (MC) on US 6 / 4.0 mm needles:**
20 stitches and 28 rows = 4 inches / 10 cm in stockinette stitch, *blocked*.
## Abbreviations
* **BOR**: Beginning of Round
* **CC1**: Contrast Color 1 (Deep Purple-Blue)
* **CC2**: Contrast Color 2 (Green)
* **CO**: Cast on
* **k**: knit
* **k2tog**: knit 2 stitches together (right-leaning decrease)
* **kfb**: knit into front and back of stitch (increase)
* **MC**: Main Color (Neutral)
* **M1L**: Make 1 Left (lift strand between stitches from front to back, knit through back loop)
* **M1R**: Make 1 Right (lift strand between stitches from back to front, knit through front loop)
* **p**: purl
* **pm**: place marker
* **pso**: pass slipped stitch over
* **rep**: repeat
* **rnd(s)**: round(s)
* **RS**: Right Side
* **sl**: slip stitch purlwise with yarn in back
* **ssk**: slip, slip, knit (left-leaning decrease)
* **st(s)**: stitch(es)
* **WS**: Wrong Side
* **yo**: yarn over
## Special Techniques
* **Stranded Colorwork**: Work with two colors in a single round/row. Carry the non-working yarn loosely across the back of your work (floats). Keep floats no longer than 5-7 stitches. If a float needs to be longer, catch the non-working yarn by twisting it with the working yarn mid-float. Maintain even tension.
* **Provisional Cast-On**: Use waste yarn and a crochet hook to create a temporary cast-on edge. This allows live stitches to be picked up later.
* **i-Cord Bind-Off**: Creates a decorative, round edge. Instructions will be provided in the pattern.
* **Picking Up Stitches**: Instructions will be provided in the pattern.
## Notes
* Read through the entire pattern before beginning.
* Always check your gauge, especially the colorwork gauge, to ensure the finished garment dimensions are correct.
* When changing needle sizes, use the specified size for the corresponding section.
* All knitting is worked in the round unless otherwise specified.
* For colorwork charts, each square represents one stitch. When working in the round, read all rounds from right to left.
* Block your finished garment gently to even out stitches and open up the colorwork.
---
## Charts Section
### Chart Instructions
* **Reading Charts**: Each square on the chart represents one stitch. When working in the round, read all rounds from right to left.
* **Chart Repeats**: Work stitches within the `[ ]` brackets the specified number of times around each round.
* **Placement**:
* Chart B will be worked first, immediately after the initial yoke increases, followed by Chart A, then Chart B again.
* Ensure your stitch count is a multiple of 18 before starting any charted section.
### Color Key
* □ = MC (Neutral Background)
* ■ = CC1 (Deep Purple-Blue - Iris Flowers)
* ▲ = CC2 (Green - Iris Leaves/Stems)
### CHART A: Iris Bloom Motif (18 sts × 28 rows)
```
28: □□■■■■■■■■■■■■■■□□
27: □■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■□
26: ■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■
25: ■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■
24: □■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■□
23: □□■■■■■■■■■■■■■■□□
22: □□□■■■■■■■■■■■■□□□
21: □□□□■■■■■■■■■■□□□□
20: □□□□□■■■■■■■■■□□□□□
19: □□□□□□■■■■■■■□□□□□□
18: □□□□□□□■■■■■□□□□□□□
17: □□□□□□□□■■■□□□□□□□□□
16: □□□□□□□□□▲□□□□□□□□□
15: □□□□□□□▲▲▲▲▲□□□□□□□
14: □□□□□□▲▲▲▲▲▲▲□□□□□□
13: □□□□□▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲□□□□□
12: □□□□▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲□□□□
11: □□□▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲□□□
10: □□▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲□□
9: □▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲□
8: □□▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲□□
7: □□□▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲□□□
6: □□□□▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲□□□□
5: □□□□□▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲□□□□□
4: □□□□□□▲▲▲▲▲▲▲□□□□□□
3: □□□□□□□▲▲▲▲▲□□□□□□□
2: □□□□□□□□▲▲▲□□□□□□□□□
1: □□□□□□□□□▲□□□□□□□□□
```
### CHART B: Stem & Border Motif (18 sts × 8 rows)
```
8: □□■□□■□□■□□■□□■□□■
7: □■□■□■□■□■□■□■□■□
6: ▲□■□▲□■□▲□■□▲□■□▲
5: □▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲□
4: □□▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲□□
3: □□□▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲□□□
2: □□□□▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲□□□□
1: □□□□□▲▲▲▲▲▲▲▲□□□□□
```
---
## Pattern Instructions
### Yoke
1. **Neckband (Provisional Cast-On)**
* With **MC** and US 6 / 4.0 mm 16-inch (40 cm) circular needle, use a provisional cast-on method to CO 90 (95, 100, 105, 110) sts. Place BOR marker and join in the round, being careful not to twist.
* Work in 1x1 Rib (k1, p1) for 1 inch / 2.5 cm.
* Switch to US 7 / 4.5 mm 16-inch (40 cm) circular needle.
* **Increase Round 1 (Setup for Yoke)**: Knit 1 round in MC, increasing 0 (1, 2, 3, 4) sts evenly around.
* *(S: 90 sts, M: 96 sts, L: 102 sts, XL: 108 sts, 2XL: 114 sts)*
* Knit 0 (1, 1, 1, 1) more round(s) in MC.
2. **Colorwork Yoke**
* *(Note: The stitch counts for the start of the colorwork sections must be multiples of 18 for Charts A and B to repeat evenly.)*
* **Round 1 (Chart B Setup)**: With MC, kfb in every 6th (6th, 6th, 6th, 6th) st 15 (16, 17, 18, 19) times, then k remaining sts. [For S (M, L, XL, 2XL): total 105 (112, 119, 126, 133) sts].
* **Round 2**: Knit 1 round in MC, increasing to 108 (126, 126, 144, 144) sts evenly. [S (108 = 6 x 18), M (126 = 7 x 18), L (126 = 7 x 18), XL (144 = 8 x 18), 2XL (144 = 8 x 18) sts].
* *(Math Validation: For size S, from 90 sts in neckband to 108 sts for Chart B start, need 18 increases. Across 90 sts, kfb every 5th stitch (90/18=5) for 18 increases = 108 sts. Round 1 example needs adjusting. Let's make it simpler for initial set-up)*
* **Revised Yoke Setup**:
* After 1 inch / 2.5 cm of 1x1 Rib on US 6 / 4.0 mm, switch to US 7 / 4.5 mm 16-inch (40 cm) circular needle.
* **Setup Round (MC)**: Knit 1 round, increasing 18 (31, 26, 39, 34) sts evenly around. Place BOR marker.
* *(S: 90 + 18 = 108 sts)*
* *(M: 95 + 31 = 126 sts)*
* *(L: 100 + 26 = 126 sts)*
* *(XL: 105 + 39 = 144 sts)*
* *(2XL: 110 + 34 = 144 sts)*
* *(All sizes now have a stitch count that is a multiple of 18.)*
* Current Stitch Count: 108 (126, 126, 144, 144) sts.
* **Work Chart B (Lower Border)**
* Work **Chart B** for 8 rounds, rep `[18 sts]` 6 (7, 7, 8, 8) times around.
* After Chart B is complete, work 1 round in MC, increasing 18 (18, 36, 36, 54) sts evenly around.
* *(S: 108 + 18 = 126 sts)*
* *(M: 126 + 18 = 144 sts)*
* *(L: 126 + 36 = 162 sts)*
* *(XL: 144 + 36 = 180 sts)*
* *(2XL: 144 + 54 = 198 sts)*
* *(All sizes now have a stitch count that is a multiple of 18.)*
* Current Stitch Count: 126 (144, 162, 180, 198) sts.
* **Work Chart A (Iris Bloom)**
* Work **Chart A** for 28 rounds, rep `[18 sts]` 7 (8, 9, 10, 11) times around.
* After Chart A is complete, work 1 round in MC, increasing 36 (36, 36, 36, 36) sts evenly around.
* *(S: 126 + 36 = 162 sts)*
* *(M: 144 + 36 = 180 sts)*
* *(L: 162 + 36 = 198 sts)*
* *(XL: 180 + 36 = 216 sts)*
* *(2XL: 198 + 36 = 234 sts)*
* *(All sizes now have a stitch count that is a multiple of 18.)*
* Current Stitch Count: 162 (180, 198, 216, 234) sts.
* **Work Chart B (Upper Border)**
* Work **Chart B** for 8 rounds, rep `[18 sts]` 9 (10, 11, 12, 13) times around.
* After Chart B is complete, work 1 round in MC, increasing 108 (126, 144, 162, 180) sts evenly around.
* *(S: 162 + 108 = 270 sts)*
* *(M: 180 + 126 = 306 sts)*
* *(L: 198 + 144 = 342 sts)*
* *(XL: 216 + 162 = 378 sts)*
* *(2XL: 234 + 180 = 414 sts)*
* Total Yoke Stitch Count: 270 (306, 342, 378, 414) sts.
* Work 1 (1, 1, 1, 1) more round(s) in MC Stockinette.
* Yoke depth should measure approximately 8.5 (8.75, 9, 9.25, 9.5) inches / 21.5 (22, 23, 23.5, 24) cm from provisional cast-on.
* Switch to US 6 / 4.0 mm 32-inch (80 cm) circular needle.
3. **Divide for Body and Sleeves**
* **Next Round (Divide)**: K 43 (48, 55, 61, 68) for Right Front, pm, place next 64 (70, 78, 88, 98) sts on waste yarn for Right Sleeve, CO 6 (8, 8, 10, 12) sts for underarm, pm, k 81 (90, 102, 112, 126) for Back, pm, place next 64 (70, 78, 88, 98) sts on waste yarn for Left Sleeve, CO 6 (8, 8, 10, 12) sts for underarm, pm, k 43 (48, 55, 61, 68) for Left Front.
* *Total Body Stitches*: 43+6+81+6+43 = 179 for S -> Incorrect, should be 179+1 (due to uneven division between front/back) for S size. Let's re-calculate to ensure proper stitch counts for front/back and underarms.
* *(Re-calculation for Body/Sleeve division to match Finished Bust and Sleeve Circ:)*
* Total Yoke Stitches: **S (270), M (306), L (342), XL (378), 2XL (414)**
* Target Sleeve Stitches (Upper Arm): **S (12"), M (14"), L (16"), XL (18"), 2XL (20")**
* (Using Stockinette gauge 5 sts/inch): **S (60), M (70), L (80), XL (90), 2XL (100)**
* Underarm CO Stitches: **S (6), M (8), L (8), XL (10), 2XL (12)**
* Total Sleeve Stitches (per sleeve including 1/2 underarm):
* S: 60 - 3 = 57, so ~57-60 sts per sleeve
* Let's divide: `(Total Yoke Stitches - 2 * target sleeve sts) / 2` for front/back, then add underarm CO.
* Sleeve stitches on hold: **S (64), M (70), L (78), XL (88), 2XL (98)**
* Remaining for Body: `Total Yoke - 2 * Sleeve Stitches on Hold`
* S: 270 - (2 * 64) = 142 sts
* M: 306 - (2 * 70) = 166 sts
* L: 342 - (2 * 78) = 186 sts
* XL: 378 - (2 * 88) = 202 sts
* 2XL: 414 - (2 * 98) = 218 sts
* Body Stitch Count: `Remaining for Body + 2 * Underarm CO`
* S: 142 + (2 * 6) = 154 sts
* M: 166 + (2 * 8) = 182 sts
* L: 186 + (2 * 8) = 202 sts
* XL: 202 + (2 * 10) = 222 sts
* 2XL: 218 + (2 * 12) = 242 sts
* *Check Finished Bust:* These body stitches will be knit at 5 sts/inch:
* S: 154 sts / 5 sts/inch = 30.8" -> This is too small for 36" finished bust. Need to increase Yoke Underarm Stitches or use different division.
* *Re-evaluating Body Stitches:* The `Total Yoke Stitch Count` above is `Body + 2 Sleeves`. Let's ensure the *body circumference* at underarm corresponds to the finished bust circumference.
* Target Finished Body Circ: **S (36), M (40), L (44), XL (48), 52"**
* Stitches needed for body (using stockinette gauge of 5 sts/inch): **S (180), M (200), L (220), XL (240), 2XL (260)**
* Therefore, Yoke Underarm Stitches (Total) must be `Body Sts + 2 * Sleeve Sts (pre-underarm CO)`.
* Let's use the provided template target: 300-450 stitches at underarm. My current target for S is 270, which is too low.
* **Back to Template Yoke Decrease Guidelines, adapted for top-down:**
* Start with neck stitches (~90-110).
* Increase to ~300-450 stitches at underarm.
* Let's aim for the middle of that range, e.g., 360 for M.
* **Revised Yoke Underarm Total Stitches:**
* S: 324 (18 repeats of 18 sts) - Will fit 36" body + 12" sleeves
* M: 360 (20 repeats of 18 sts)
* L: 396 (22 repeats of 18 sts)
* XL: 432 (24 repeats of 18 sts)
* 2XL: 468 (26 repeats of 18 sts)
* *This means I need more increases in the Yoke section.*
* **Revised Yoke Increase Strategy (to reach new total stitch counts):**
* **Setup Round (MC)**: Knit 1 round, increasing 18 (31, 26, 39, 34) sts evenly around. *(S: 108, M: 126, L: 126, XL: 144, 2XL: 144 sts)*
* **Work Chart B (Lower Border)**: 8 rounds.
* After Chart B, work 1 round in MC, increasing 36 (36, 54, 54, 72) sts evenly around.
* *(S: 108 + 36 = 144 sts)*
* *(M: 126 + 36 = 162 sts)*
* *(L: 126 + 54 = 180 sts)*
* *(XL: 144 + 54 = 198 sts)*
* *(2XL: 144 + 72 = 216 sts)*
* Current Stitch Count: 144 (162, 180, 198, 216) sts.
* **Work Chart A (Iris Bloom)**: 28 rounds.
* After Chart A, work 1 round in MC, increasing 72 (72, 72, 72, 72) sts evenly around.
* *(S: 144 + 72 = 216 sts)*
* *(M: 162 + 72 = 234 sts)*
* *(L: 180 + 72 = 252 sts)*
* *(XL: 198 + 72 = 270 sts)*
* *(2XL: 216 + 72 = 288 sts)*
* Current Stitch Count: 216 (234, 252, 270, 288) sts.
* **Work Chart B (Upper Border)**: 8 rounds.
* After Chart B, work 1 round in MC, increasing 108 (126, 144, 162, 180) sts evenly around.
* *(S: 216 + 108 = 324 sts)*
* *(M: 234 + 126 = 360 sts)*
* *(L: 252 + 144 = 396 sts)*
* *(XL: 270 + 162 = 432 sts)*
* *(2XL: 288 + 180 = 468 sts)*
* Total Yoke Stitch Count: **324 (360, 396, 432, 468) sts**. This aligns with template guidelines.
* Work 1 (1, 1, 1, 1) more round(s) in MC Stockinette.
* Yoke depth should measure approximately 8.5 (8.75, 9, 9.25, 9.5) inches / 21.5 (22, 23, 23.5, 24) cm from provisional cast-on.
* Switch to US 6 / 4.0 mm 32-inch (80 cm) circular needle.
* **Revised Divide for Body and Sleeves**:
* **Next Round (Divide)**: With MC, knit 52 (58, 65, 71, 78) sts for Front, pm, place next 60 (70, 78, 88, 96) sts on waste yarn for Right Sleeve, CO 8 (10, 10, 12, 14) sts for underarm, pm, knit 104 (114, 130, 142, 156) sts for Back, pm, place next 60 (70, 78, 88, 96) sts on waste yarn for Left Sleeve, CO 8 (10, 10, 12, 14) sts for underarm, pm, knit 52 (58, 65, 71, 78) sts for Front.
* *Total Body Stitches*: 52+8+104+8+52 = 224 for S. (52+10+104+10+52 = 228 -> This is wrong. Sum of Front+Underarm+Back+Underarm+Front = 52+8+104+8+52 = 224. This is an incorrect count as it double counts the front.
* Correct way: (Front * 2) + Back + (Underarm * 2) = (52*2) + 104 + (8*2) = 104 + 104 + 16 = 224.
* `Total Stitches on Body`: 52 + 8 + 104 + 8 + 52 = 224 for S. Wait, this is still counting the front stitches twice. Let's restart this from `Total Yoke Stitches`.
* Total Yoke Stitches: **S (324), M (360), L (396), XL (432), 2XL (468)**
* Sleeve Stitches to hold: **S (60), M (70), L (78), XL (88), 96**
* Underarm Cast-On: **S (8), M (10), L (10), XL (12), 14**
* Body stitches after separation: `(Total Yoke Stitches - 2 * Sleeve Stitches to Hold) + 2 * Underarm Cast-On`
* S: (324 - 2*60) + 2*8 = (324-120) + 16 = 204 + 16 = 220 sts
* M: (360 - 2*70) + 2*10 = (360-140) + 20 = 220 + 20 = 240 sts
* L: (396 - 2*78) + 2*10 = (396-156) + 20 = 240 + 20 = 260 sts
* XL: (432 - 2*88) + 2*12 = (432-176) + 24 = 256 + 24 = 280 sts
* 2XL: (468 - 2*96) + 2*14 = (468-192) + 28 = 276 + 28 = 304 sts
* Body Stitches: **S (220), M (240), L (260), XL (280), 304**
* *Check Finished Bust Circ*: 220/5 = 44" for S. This is too much ease for a 36" bust. The target was 36" finished. My gauge for stockinette is 5 sts/inch. 36 * 5 = 180 sts.
* The template's "Start with ~300-450 stitches at underarm" is for the *combined* body and sleeve circumference. My target finished body bust is 36" -> 180 sts. My target sleeve circumference is 12" -> 60 sts.
* So, at division, `Body (180) + Sleeve1 (60) + Sleeve2 (60) = 300 sts for S`. This would be the total stitches *before* underarm cast-on.
* If the Yoke Underarm Total Stitches are 324 (S), and I want 180 for the body, then `(324 - 180) / 2 = 144 / 2 = 72 sts` per sleeve *before* underarm cast-on. This is too large for the short sleeve.
* **CRITICAL RECALCULATION OF YOKE STITCH COUNTS based on desired finished measurements**:
* **Target Finished Body Stitches**: S (180), M (200), L (220), XL (240), 2XL (260) (at 5 sts/inch).
* **Target Finished Sleeve Stitches (upper arm)**: S (60), M (70), L (80), XL (90), 2XL (100) (at 5 sts/inch).
* **Underarm Cast-On Stitches**: S (8), M (10), L (10), XL (12), 14.
* **Stitches to be placed on hold for Sleeves**: This must be `Target Sleeve Stitches - Underarm CO Stitches / 2`.
* S: 60 - 4 = 56 sts
* M: 70 - 5 = 65 sts
* L: 80 - 5 = 75 sts
* XL: 90 - 6 = 84 sts
* 2XL: 100 - 7 = 93 sts
* **Total Stitches at End of Yoke (before division)**: `Target Body Stitches + 2 * Stitches to be placed on hold for Sleeves`
* S: 180 + 2*56 = 180 + 112 = 292 sts
* M: 200 + 2*65 = 200 + 130 = 330 sts
* L: 220 + 2*75 = 220 + 150 = 370 sts
* XL: 240 + 2*84 = 240 + 168 = 408 sts
* 2XL: 260 + 2*93 = 260 + 186 = 446 sts
* These are the Yoke Underarm Total Stitches I need to reach *before* division. These are not multiples of 18 for all sizes.
* **Let's adjust to the nearest multiple of 18 (colorwork gauge) and specify that stitches are adjusted in a plain row before division.**
* **Adjusted Yoke Underarm Total Stitches (target)**:
* S: 288 (16 repeats of 18 sts)
* M: 324 (18 repeats of 18 sts)
* L: 360 (20 repeats of 18 sts)
* XL: 414 (23 repeats of 18 sts)
* 2XL: 450 (25 repeats of 18 sts)
* This means the final increase round of the yoke needs to be adjusted.
* **Final Yoke Increase Adjustment (to reach new total stitch counts):**
* After Chart B (Upper Border) is complete, work 1 round in MC, increasing 72 (90, 108, 144, 162) sts evenly around.
* *(S: 216 + 72 = 288 sts)*
* *(M: 234 + 90 = 324 sts)*
* *(L: 252 + 108 = 360 sts)*
* *(XL: 270 + 144 = 414 sts)*
* *(2XL: 288 + 162 = 450 sts)*
* Total Yoke Stitch Count: **288 (324, 360, 414, 450) sts**.
* Work 1 (1, 1, 1, 1) more round(s) in MC Stockinette.
* **Revised Divide for Body and Sleeves (using new Yoke Total and target body/sleeve circ):**
* **Next Round (Divide)**: K 46 (52, 59, 67, 72) for Right Front, pm, place next 50 (60, 68, 80, 89) sts on waste yarn for Right Sleeve, CO 8 (10, 10, 12, 14) sts for underarm, pm, k 96 (108, 122, 138, 148) for Back, pm, place next 50 (60, 68, 80, 89) sts on waste yarn for Left Sleeve, CO 8 (10, 10, 12, 14) sts for underarm, pm, k 46 (52, 59, 67, 72) for Left Front.
* *Check total stitches*: 46+50+8+96+50+8+46 = 304 for S. Wait, this adds the front/back/sleeves and underarm stitches to total yoke. This needs to sum up to the total yoke stitches of 288 for S.
* Correct way to write divide:
* Knit for Front (`Front_Sts`).
* Place `Sleeve_Sts_on_Hold` on waste yarn.
* CO `Underarm_CO_Sts`.
* Knit for Back (`Back_Sts`).
* Place `Sleeve_Sts_on_Hold` on waste yarn.
* CO `Underarm_CO_Sts`.
* Knit for Front (`Front_Sts`). (The second Front_Sts takes you to BOR).
* `Total Yoke Stitches = 2 * Front_Sts + 2 * Sleeve_Sts_on_Hold + Back_Sts`
* Let `Front_Sts` = `Back_Sts / 2`.
* `Back_Sts` = `180 - 2 * Underarm_CO / 2 = 180 - 8 = 172` for S (target body 180). This isn't perfect.
* Let's stick to the calculation of `Body_Sts = Target Body (180, 200, 220, 240, 260)` + `2 * Underarm_CO`.
* Body Stitch Count after division:
* S: 180 + 2*8 = 196 sts (This is 39.2" bust, for 36" desired finished). This is 3.2" positive ease. Ok.
* M: 200 + 2*10 = 220 sts (44" bust, for 40" desired finished). This is 4" positive ease. Ok.
* L: 220 + 2*10 = 240 sts (48" bust, for 44" desired finished). This is 4" positive ease. Ok.
* XL: 240 + 2*12 = 264 sts (52.8" bust, for 48" desired finished). This is 4.8" positive ease. Ok.
* 2XL: 260 + 2*14 = 288 sts (57.6" bust, for 52" desired finished). This is 5.6" positive ease. Ok. (Slightly more, but acceptable).
* **Stitches to be put on hold for Sleeves**:
* S: (288 - 196) / 2 = 92 / 2 = 46 sts
* M: (324 - 220) / 2 = 104 / 2 = 52 sts
* L: (360 - 240) / 2 = 120 / 2 = 60 sts
* XL: (414 - 264) / 2 = 150 / 2 = 75 sts
* 2XL: (450 - 288) / 2 = 162 / 2 = 81 sts
* These are the stitches to be placed on waste yarn for each sleeve.
* **Next Round (Divide for Body and Sleeves)**:
* **S (288 sts)**: K 49 sts, pm, place next 46 sts on waste yarn for Right Sleeve, CO 8 sts for underarm, pm, k 98 sts for Back, pm, place next 46 sts on waste yarn for Left Sleeve, CO 8 sts for underarm, pm, k 49 sts for Left Front. (Total Body: 49+8+98+8+49 = 212 sts. No, Front + Back + Underarms = 49+98+49+8+8 = 212. Total should be 196. Divide into Front (49), Back (98). Stitches for each front (49) and back (98) must sum to Body stitches - 2*Underarm_CO. 196 - 16 = 180. So Front (45), Back (90), Front (45) -> 45+45+90 = 180. Let's use that.)
* **S (288 sts)**: K 45 sts (Right Front), pm, place next 46 sts on waste yarn for Right Sleeve, CO 8 sts for underarm, pm, k 90 sts (Back), pm, place next 46 sts on waste yarn for Left Sleeve, CO 8 sts for underarm, pm, k 45 sts (Left Front). Total Body: 45+8+90+8+45 = 196 sts. **CHECK**
* **M (324 sts)**: K 51 sts (Right Front), pm, place next 52 sts on waste yarn for Right Sleeve, CO 10 sts for underarm, pm, k 102 sts (Back), pm, place next 52 sts on waste yarn for Left Sleeve, CO 10 sts for underarm, pm, k 51 sts (Left Front). Total Body: 51+10+102+10+51 = 224 sts. *(Target was 220. Let's adjust back to 220: Front (50), Back (100) -> 50+10+100+10+50 = 220.)* **M (324 sts)**: K 50 sts (Right Front), pm, place next 52 sts on waste yarn for Right Sleeve, CO 10 sts for underarm, pm, k 100 sts (Back), pm, place next 52 sts on waste yarn for Left Sleeve, CO 10 sts for underarm, pm, k 50 sts (Left Front). Total Body: 50+10+100+10+50 = 220 sts. **CHECK**
* **L (360 sts)**: K 55 sts (Right Front), pm, place next 60 sts on waste yarn for Right Sleeve, CO 10 sts for underarm, pm, k 110 sts (Back), pm, place next 60 sts on waste yarn for Left Sleeve, CO 10 sts for underarm, pm, k 55 sts (Left Front). Total Body: 55+10+110+10+55 = 240 sts. **CHECK**
* **XL (414 sts)**: K 63 sts (Right Front), pm, place next 75 sts on waste yarn for Right Sleeve, CO 12 sts for underarm, pm, k 126 sts (Back), pm, place next 75 sts on waste yarn for Left Sleeve, CO 12 sts for underarm, pm, k 63 sts (Left Front). Total Body: 63+12+126+12+63 = 276 sts. *(Target was 264. 264 - 24 = 240. Front (60), Back (120).)* **XL (414 sts)**: K 60 sts (Right Front), pm, place next 75 sts on waste yarn for Right Sleeve, CO 12 sts for underarm, pm, k 120 sts (Back), pm, place next 75 sts on waste yarn for Left Sleeve, CO 12 sts for underarm, pm, k 60 sts (Left Front). Total Body: 60+12+120+12+60 = 264 sts. **CHECK**
* **2XL (450 sts)**: K 68 sts (Right Front), pm, place next 81 sts on waste yarn for Right Sleeve, CO 14 sts for underarm, pm, k 136 sts (Back), pm, place next 81 sts on waste yarn for Left Sleeve, CO 14 sts for underarm, pm, k 68 sts (Left Front). Total Body: 68+14+136+14+68 = 300 sts. *(Target was 288. 288 - 28 = 260. Front (65), Back (130).)* **2XL (450 sts)**: K 65 sts (Right Front), pm, place next 81 sts on waste yarn for Right Sleeve, CO 14 sts for underarm, pm, k 130 sts (Back), pm, place next 81 sts on waste yarn for Left Sleeve, CO 14 sts for underarm, pm, k 65 sts (Left Front). Total Body: 65+14+130+14+65 = 288 sts. **CHECK**
* Total Stitches on Body: 196 (220, 240, 264, 288) sts.
### Body
1. Work in MC Stockinette stitch in the round, dropping markers as you pass them, until body measures 13 (13.5, 14, 14.5, 15) inches / 33 (34.5, 35.5, 37, 38) cm from underarm cast-on.
2. **Hem**:
* Switch to US 6 / 4.0 mm 32-inch (80 cm) circular needle.
* Work in 1x1 Rib (k1, p1) for 2 inches / 5 cm.
* Bind off loosely in pattern.
### Sleeves (Make 2)
1. Place 46 (52, 60, 75, 81) held sleeve stitches onto US 6 / 4.0 mm DPNs or small circumference needle.
2. With MC, pick up and knit 8 (10, 10, 12, 14) sts along the underarm cast-on. Place BOR marker.
* Total Sleeve Stitches: 54 (62, 70, 87, 95) sts.
3. Work in MC Stockinette stitch in the round until sleeve measures 2.5 (2.5, 3, 3, 3.5) inches / 6.5 (6.5, 7.5, 7.5, 9) cm from underarm cast-on.
4. **i-Cord Bind-Off**:
* Using US 6 / 4.0 mm DPNs or small circumference needle and MC, CO 3 sts onto the left needle using the cable cast-on method.
* \*K2, ssk (knit last of the 3 CO sts together with the next st on the main needle), sl the 3 sts back to the left needle\*. Repeat from \* until all sleeve stitches are bound off.
* Cut yarn, leaving a tail. Thread tail through the remaining 3 sts and pull tight to secure.
### Finishing
1. **V-Neck Band**
* Carefully remove the waste yarn from the provisional cast-on at the neck, placing the live stitches onto US 6 / 4.0 mm 16-inch (40 cm) circular needle.
* Mark the center front stitch of the neckband.
* Count 10 (10, 10, 11, 11) sts on each side of the center front marker. Place new markers at these points (20 (20, 20, 22, 22) sts between these new markers). These stitches will be bound off.
* Bind off 20 (20, 20, 22, 22) stitches at the center front of the neckband.
* *Next Round (Pick up sts)*: With MC and US 6 / 4.0 mm 16-inch (40 cm) circular needle, beginning at the right bound-off edge of the V-neck, pick up and knit 1 st for every row along the right V-neck edge. Pick up and knit 1 st for every row along the left V-neck edge. Pick up and knit 1 st for every stitch along the remaining back neck. Place BOR marker at center back.
* *Total stitches picked up for V-neck band will vary slightly based on pick-up ratio, but aim for approx. 1 st per row on the V-edges and 1 st per st for the back neck, making sure the V lies flat.*
* Work in 1x1 Rib (k1, p1) for 0.5 inch / 1.25 cm.
* **Shape V-neck point**: When working the V-neck band, on every other round, at the center front of the V-neck, k2tog, k1, ssk. (This will be done over 3 stitches at the center of the V-neck opening).
* Continue in 1x1 Rib with V-neck decreases for 0.5 inch / 1.25 cm more (total 1 inch / 2.5 cm band width).
* **i-Cord Bind-Off for V-Neck**: Using the i-cord bind-off method (as for sleeves), bind off all stitches.
2. Weave in all remaining ends.
3. **Blocking**: Gently wash the sweater in lukewarm water with a mild wool wash. Lay flat on a towel, roll up, and press out excess water. Unroll, then lay flat on a clean, dry surface, shaping the garment to the finished measurements. Allow to dry completely.
Enjoy your new Iris Bloom V-Neck Yoke Pullover!
Disclaimer: This pattern was generated by AI and should be reviewed for accuracy before use. While we strive for quality, AI-generated content may contain errors. Please verify measurements, stitch counts, and instructions before beginning your project. Generated by purlJam.uk
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