Finnish Yarns and Design Since 1928
Novita 7 Veljestä: Akvarelli-Nordic patterned knitted sweater
As low as €3.83
Designed by Pirjo Iivonen, the enchantingly beautiful Akvarelli (watercolour) Sweater is, in the words of the designer, "a delicate knit, with stylized floral patterns repeated on the hem, cuffs and the yoke".
Novita Kevät 2022 -lehti (in Finnish)
2
Intermediate
Availability: In stock
N01222
Size
XS/S(M)L(XL)XXLYarn demand
Novita 7 Veljestä
(563) Knapweed 350(400)450(500)550 g and
(047) Lichen 250(300)300(350)350 g
Needles and other supplies
Needles
Novita 80 cm/32” circular needles, size 3.5–4 mm (US 4/UK 10 or 9 -
US 6/UK 8) and 4–4.5 mm (US 6/UK 8 - US 7/UK 7), Novita dpns, size 3.5–4 mm (US 4/UK 10 or 9 - US 6/UK 8) and 4–4.5 mm (US 6/UK 8 - US 7/UK 7) for the sleeves.
Notions: Stitch markers, spare needles or scrap yarn, tapestry needle.
Designer
Pirjo IivonenFront- and back, lower part
The sweater is worked in one piece up to the armholes.
CO 160(180)188(200)220 sts, using the smaller circ. ndls and color Lichen, join for working in the rnd, making sure not to twist the sts. Place marker to indicate beg of rnd, which is located at the center back of the sweater.
Work in 3/1 ribbing in the rnd for 5 cm/2”. Change to the larger size ndls, knit 1 rnd and at the same time, inc 0(0)2(0)0 sts, evenly spaced = 160(180)190(200)220 sts.
Join color Knapweed, continue working acc to chart I, rnd 1 and work patt rep of 10 sts a total of 16(18)19(20)22 sts times (pM after each patt rep of 10 sts, if necessary, to make it easier to follow the chart). Work rnds 2-21 of the chart. Cut yarn in color Lichen and continue working in st st in the rnd, using color Knapweed.
When work measures about 38(39)40(42)43 cm/15(15.5)15.8(16.5)17”, place all sts on hold.
Sleeves
CO 40(40)44(44)44 sts, using the smaller ndls and color Lichen. Join for working in the rnd, making sure not to twist the sts. Place marker to indicate beg of rnd. The beginning of the round is on the inside of the sleeve, at the wrist.
Work in 3/1 ribbing in the rnd for 5 cm/2”. Change to the larger size ndls, knit 1 rnd and at the same time, inc 0(2)0(0)2 sts, evenly spaced = 40(42)44(44)46 sts.
Join color Knapweed, continue working Nordic colorwork pattern acc to chart II, rnd 1, starting at the point marked with the arrow for chosen size: knit the first 0(1)2(2)3 sts at the right side of the chart, work patt rep 4 times, then knit the last 0(1)2(2)3 sts at the left side.
Work rnds 2-21 of the chart. In every increase-rnd, work the first st in indicated color, M1L (left leaning inc; using left needle tip, pick up the bar between the st on the left ndl and the st on the right ndl, from front to back, and knit this st into the back loop) using the color of the second box in the chart, then work acc to pattern to the last st of the rnd, M1R (right leaning inc; using left needle tip, pick up the bar between the st on the left ndl and the st on the right ndl, from back to front, and knit this st into the front loop) using the color of the second-to-last box in the chart, then knit the last st acc to chart.
After finishing rnd 21 of the chart, a total of 48(50)52(52)54 sts are on the ndl. Cut yarn in color Lichen and continue working with color Knapweed.
When work measures 12(12)12(14)14 cm/4.8(4.8)4.8(5.5)5.5”, inc as follows: in the next rnd, k1, M1L, work in pattern to the last st, M1R, k1 = 50(52)54(54)56 sts. Rep these inc’s every 4(3,5)3(2)2 cm/1.6(1.4)1.2(0.8)0.8” another 6(7)9(12)12 times = 62(66)72(78)80 sts.
Continue working in st st, without inc’s, until sleeve measures 44(45)46(47)48 cm/17.3(17.7)18(18.5)18.9”. In the next rnd, knit to the last 4(5)6(8)9 sts. BO the next 8(10)12(16)18 sts for the armhole and place the rem 54(56)60(62)62 sts on hold.
Work the second sleeve in the same way.
Yoke
Place all sts of body and sleeves back onto the larger size circ. ndls, as follows: starting at the beg of rnd at the center back of the body, knit the 36(40)41(42)46 back-sts, place the next 8(10)12(16)18 sts on hold for the armhole, knit the 54(56)60(62)62 sleeve-sts, knit the 72(80)83(84)92 front-sts, place the next 8(10)12(16)18 sts on hold for the armhole, knit the 54(56)60(62)62 sts of second sleeve, then knit the rem 36(40)42(42)46 back-sts. There are now a total of 252(272)286(292)308 sts.
Knit 1 rnd and at the same time, dec 2(2)6(2)8 sts, evenly spaced = 250(270)280(290)300 sts. Knit 0(2)4(4) 6 more rnds.
Join yarn in color Lichen, continue working the Nordic colorwork pattern acc to chart III, starting with rnd 1 of the chart, work patt rep over 10 sts a total of 25(27)28(29)30 times. If necessary, pM after each patt rep of 10 sts, to make it easier to follow the chart.
Work rnds 2-50 of chart. In rnds 21, 28, 35, 39, 43 and 48, 1 st is decreased in each pattern repeat. There are now 100(108)112(116)120 sts. The yoke measures approx. 23(24)25(25)26 cm / 9(9.5)9.8(9.8)10.3” in height. Cut yarn in color Knapweed.
Neckline
Now continue working to end, using only color Lichen. Remove all stitch markers, except for the one at the beg of round. Short rows are now worked for a slightly raised back neckline.
Beg short row shaping on first rnd, starting from mid back, as follows:
Row 1 (RS): k10(10)12(12)14, turn work.
Row 2 (WS): make a double st (slip the first stitch purlwise, with yarn in front of the work. Tug the yarn up and over the needle, creating a “double” stitch), p19(19)23(23)27, turn work.
Row 3 (RS) : make a double st (slip the first stitch purlwise, with yarn in front of the work. Tug the yarn up and over the needle, creating a “double” stitch), k18(18)22(22)26, work the 2 legs of the double st of previous turn together as 1 st, k7 and turn work.
Row 4 (WS) : make a double st, p25(25)29(29)33, work the 2 legs of the double st of previous turn together as 1 st, k7 and turn work.
Row 5 (RS) : make a double st, k32(32)36(36)40, work the 2 legs of the double st of previous turn together as 1 st, k7 and turn work.
Row 6 (WS) : make a double st, p39(39)43(43)47, work the 2 legs of the double st of previous turn together as 1 st, k7 and turn work.
Row 7 (RS) : make a double st, k46(46)50(50)54, work the 2 legs of the double st of previous turn together as 1 st, knit to end of rnd.
Knit 1 rnd and at the same time, dec 24(28)32(30)32 sts, evenly spaced, as follows:
Size XS/S: [*k2tog, k2, rep from * a total of 5 times, k2tog, k3] and rep the instructions between the square brackets [-] a total of 4 times = 76 sts.
Size M: [*k2tog, k2, rep from * a total of 6 times, k2tog, k1] and rep the instructions between the square brackets [-] a total of 4 times = 80 sts.
Size L: *k2tog, k1, k2tog, k2, rep from * a total of 16 times = 80 sts.
Size XL: k2, [*k2tog, k2, rep from * a total of 4 times, k2tog, k1], and rep the instructions between the square brackets [-] a total of 6 times = 86 sts.
Size XXL: [*k2tog, k1, rep from * a total of 2 times, *k2tog, k2, rep from * a total of 6 times], and rep the instructions between the square brackets [-] a total of 4 times= 88 sts.
Continue working in 3/1 ribbing (k3, p1) and for size XL only, dec 2 sts, evenly spaced, in the first rnd = 76(80)80(84)88 sts.
Work 7 rnds in 3/1 ribbing, or work until the desired height of the neckline border, then BO all sts in pattern (i.e. k1, * work next st as it appears, pass second st over first st of RH ndl, rep from * to end of rnd).
Finishing
Graft the live sts at the underarms together and secure the yarn ends at the inside. Wash the sweater in lukewarm water, roll it in a towel and use it to squeeze out the excess water, shape it to size and let it dry.
Abbreviations
acc = according
beg = begin(ning)
BO = bind off
circ. = circular
CO = cast on
dpn(s) = double pointed needle(s)
dec(‘s) = decrease(s)
inc(‘s) = increase(s)
k = knit
k2tog = knit 2 sts together
M = marker
M1 = increase 1 st by working the bar between 2 sts as a twisted knit stitch
M1L = make 1 left leaning increase
M1R = make 1 right leaning increase
ndl(s) = needle(s)
p = purl
patt = pattern
pM = place marker
rem = remaining
rep = repeat
rnd(s) = round(s)
RH = right hand
RS = right side
st(s) = stitch(es)
st st = stockinette stitch
WS = wrong side
Finished dimensions
Finished measurements
Chest circumference: 88(100)106(112)122 cm / 34(39)42(44)48 inch
Front length from neckline to hem: 61(63)65(67)69 cm / 24(25)25.5(26)27 inch
Underarm length: 44(45)46(47)48 cm / 17.3(17.7)18(18.5)19 inch
Stitch patterns & gauge
Main stitch patterns: 3/1 ribbing (k3, p1) in the round: *k3, p1, rep from * throughout. Stockinette stitch in the round: knit all sts. Nordic colorwork pattern: work in st st acc to the instructions and charts.
Gauge/Tension: 18 sts and 23 rows in st st, using the larger size ndls = 10 x 10 cm / 4” square, 18 sts in Nordic colorwork pattern, using the larger size ndls = 10 cm / 4”
Tip: The Nordic colorwork pattern only has floats that are longer than 5 stitches in a few places. To make sure that these floats don’t get in the way on the inside, you need to trap the floats as you knit, crossing the main color and contrast color at the middle stitch.
Front- and back, lower part
The sweater is worked in one piece up to the armholes.
CO 160(180)188(200)220 sts, using the smaller circ. ndls and color Lichen, join for working in the rnd, making sure not to twist the sts. Place marker to indicate beg of rnd, which is located at the center back of the sweater.
Work in 3/1 ribbing in the rnd for 5 cm/2”. Change to the larger size ndls, knit 1 rnd and at the same time, inc 0(0)2(0)0 sts, evenly spaced = 160(180)190(200)220 sts.
Join color Knapweed, continue working acc to chart I, rnd 1 and work patt rep of 10 sts a total of 16(18)19(20)22 sts times (pM after each patt rep of 10 sts, if necessary, to make it easier to follow the chart). Work rnds 2-21 of the chart. Cut yarn in color Lichen and continue working in st st in the rnd, using color Knapweed.
When work measures about 38(39)40(42)43 cm/15(15.5)15.8(16.5)17”, place all sts on hold.
Sleeves
CO 40(40)44(44)44 sts, using the smaller ndls and color Lichen. Join for working in the rnd, making sure not to twist the sts. Place marker to indicate beg of rnd. The beginning of the round is on the inside of the sleeve, at the wrist.
Work in 3/1 ribbing in the rnd for 5 cm/2”. Change to the larger size ndls, knit 1 rnd and at the same time, inc 0(2)0(0)2 sts, evenly spaced = 40(42)44(44)46 sts.
Join color Knapweed, continue working Nordic colorwork pattern acc to chart II, rnd 1, starting at the point marked with the arrow for chosen size: knit the first 0(1)2(2)3 sts at the right side of the chart, work patt rep 4 times, then knit the last 0(1)2(2)3 sts at the left side.
Work rnds 2-21 of the chart. In every increase-rnd, work the first st in indicated color, M1L (left leaning inc; using left needle tip, pick up the bar between the st on the left ndl and the st on the right ndl, from front to back, and knit this st into the back loop) using the color of the second box in the chart, then work acc to pattern to the last st of the rnd, M1R (right leaning inc; using left needle tip, pick up the bar between the st on the left ndl and the st on the right ndl, from back to front, and knit this st into the front loop) using the color of the second-to-last box in the chart, then knit the last st acc to chart.
After finishing rnd 21 of the chart, a total of 48(50)52(52)54 sts are on the ndl. Cut yarn in color Lichen and continue working with color Knapweed.
When work measures 12(12)12(14)14 cm/4.8(4.8)4.8(5.5)5.5”, inc as follows: in the next rnd, k1, M1L, work in pattern to the last st, M1R, k1 = 50(52)54(54)56 sts. Rep these inc’s every 4(3,5)3(2)2 cm/1.6(1.4)1.2(0.8)0.8” another 6(7)9(12)12 times = 62(66)72(78)80 sts.
Continue working in st st, without inc’s, until sleeve measures 44(45)46(47)48 cm/17.3(17.7)18(18.5)18.9”. In the next rnd, knit to the last 4(5)6(8)9 sts. BO the next 8(10)12(16)18 sts for the armhole and place the rem 54(56)60(62)62 sts on hold.
Work the second sleeve in the same way.
Yoke
Place all sts of body and sleeves back onto the larger size circ. ndls, as follows: starting at the beg of rnd at the center back of the body, knit the 36(40)41(42)46 back-sts, place the next 8(10)12(16)18 sts on hold for the armhole, knit the 54(56)60(62)62 sleeve-sts, knit the 72(80)83(84)92 front-sts, place the next 8(10)12(16)18 sts on hold for the armhole, knit the 54(56)60(62)62 sts of second sleeve, then knit the rem 36(40)42(42)46 back-sts. There are now a total of 252(272)286(292)308 sts.
Knit 1 rnd and at the same time, dec 2(2)6(2)8 sts, evenly spaced = 250(270)280(290)300 sts. Knit 0(2)4(4) 6 more rnds.
Join yarn in color Lichen, continue working the Nordic colorwork pattern acc to chart III, starting with rnd 1 of the chart, work patt rep over 10 sts a total of 25(27)28(29)30 times. If necessary, pM after each patt rep of 10 sts, to make it easier to follow the chart.
Work rnds 2-50 of chart. In rnds 21, 28, 35, 39, 43 and 48, 1 st is decreased in each pattern repeat. There are now 100(108)112(116)120 sts. The yoke measures approx. 23(24)25(25)26 cm / 9(9.5)9.8(9.8)10.3” in height. Cut yarn in color Knapweed.
Neckline
Now continue working to end, using only color Lichen. Remove all stitch markers, except for the one at the beg of round. Short rows are now worked for a slightly raised back neckline.
Beg short row shaping on first rnd, starting from mid back, as follows:
Row 1 (RS): k10(10)12(12)14, turn work.
Row 2 (WS): make a double st (slip the first stitch purlwise, with yarn in front of the work. Tug the yarn up and over the needle, creating a “double” stitch), p19(19)23(23)27, turn work.
Row 3 (RS) : make a double st (slip the first stitch purlwise, with yarn in front of the work. Tug the yarn up and over the needle, creating a “double” stitch), k18(18)22(22)26, work the 2 legs of the double st of previous turn together as 1 st, k7 and turn work.
Row 4 (WS) : make a double st, p25(25)29(29)33, work the 2 legs of the double st of previous turn together as 1 st, k7 and turn work.
Row 5 (RS) : make a double st, k32(32)36(36)40, work the 2 legs of the double st of previous turn together as 1 st, k7 and turn work.
Row 6 (WS) : make a double st, p39(39)43(43)47, work the 2 legs of the double st of previous turn together as 1 st, k7 and turn work.
Row 7 (RS) : make a double st, k46(46)50(50)54, work the 2 legs of the double st of previous turn together as 1 st, knit to end of rnd.
Knit 1 rnd and at the same time, dec 24(28)32(30)32 sts, evenly spaced, as follows:
Size XS/S: [*k2tog, k2, rep from * a total of 5 times, k2tog, k3] and rep the instructions between the square brackets [-] a total of 4 times = 76 sts.
Size M: [*k2tog, k2, rep from * a total of 6 times, k2tog, k1] and rep the instructions between the square brackets [-] a total of 4 times = 80 sts.
Size L: *k2tog, k1, k2tog, k2, rep from * a total of 16 times = 80 sts.
Size XL: k2, [*k2tog, k2, rep from * a total of 4 times, k2tog, k1], and rep the instructions between the square brackets [-] a total of 6 times = 86 sts.
Size XXL: [*k2tog, k1, rep from * a total of 2 times, *k2tog, k2, rep from * a total of 6 times], and rep the instructions between the square brackets [-] a total of 4 times= 88 sts.
Continue working in 3/1 ribbing (k3, p1) and for size XL only, dec 2 sts, evenly spaced, in the first rnd = 76(80)80(84)88 sts.
Work 7 rnds in 3/1 ribbing, or work until the desired height of the neckline border, then BO all sts in pattern (i.e. k1, * work next st as it appears, pass second st over first st of RH ndl, rep from * to end of rnd).
Finishing
Graft the live sts at the underarms together and secure the yarn ends at the inside. Wash the sweater in lukewarm water, roll it in a towel and use it to squeeze out the excess water, shape it to size and let it dry.
Abbreviations
acc = according
beg = begin(ning)
BO = bind off
circ. = circular
CO = cast on
dpn(s) = double pointed needle(s)
dec(‘s) = decrease(s)
inc(‘s) = increase(s)
k = knit
k2tog = knit 2 sts together
M = marker
M1 = increase 1 st by working the bar between 2 sts as a twisted knit stitch
M1L = make 1 left leaning increase
M1R = make 1 right leaning increase
ndl(s) = needle(s)
p = purl
patt = pattern
pM = place marker
rem = remaining
rep = repeat
rnd(s) = round(s)
RH = right hand
RS = right side
st(s) = stitch(es)
st st = stockinette stitch
WS = wrong side
This pattern is publish in the latest issue of Novita Magazine. You can buy your own copy here
Beginner
Have you just learned to knit, maybe still trying to figure out the very basics like knit and purl stitches? Or are you picking up knitting again for the first time since elementary school? Start here.
Technique
Beginner-level patterns include only basic knitting techniques: knitting and purling. You’ll also need to cast on and cast off stitches. The projects can be worked flat or in the round. Easy, regular decreases are used. Most patterns are worked in stockinette or garter stitch. Other simple stitch patterns may occur, and they are always detailed in the written pattern. Stripes of different colours may be used, but no more advanced colourwork.
Patterns
All patterns are written and do not include charts. Abbreviations are not used. Getting gauge is not crucial to the finished piece. Patterns include mostly accessories such as scarved and beanies. Pillowcases and other home decoration pieces.
Adventurous beginner
Got the basics covered? You’d like to take a swing at your first pair of socks, perhaps some easy cables or colourwork? A treasure of patterns awaits you on this level.
Technique
Patterns on this level may include simple colourwork, cables or lace. Colourwork patterns repeats are relatively short, cables simple and symmetrical and lace patterns easy and relatively small, covering details rather than entire pieces. The colourwork, cable and lace stitches are not worked into decreases or increases. Colourwork yarn floats are short, max. 3-4 stitches. Picking up stitches may occur. On this level, you’ll also find easy patterns using domino knitting, log cabin knitting or tunisian crochet.
Patterns
Patterns may include simple charts. In case special techniques are employed, they are detailed our in the instructions, either as text or e.g. through videos. The patterns may also suggest ”shortcuts”, i.e. easier ways to accomplish a technique. Most of the basic socks with heel flaps or afterthought heels are on this level, as well as mittens with no-gusset thumbs. There’s also plenty of sweaters, usually yoke sweaters or raglan sleeve sweaters.
Intermediate
So knitting is a regular hobby for you? Abbreviations, charts and instructions are no more than a walk in the park? Perhaps you’re looking for something to challenge yourself with, even at the odds of frogging?
Technique
In addition to basic techniques, some special techniques may be employed on this level, e.g. short rows. The same pattern may include both lace and cables. Magic loop knitting or entrelac, two-coloured brioche stitch, also here. In general, patterns require a more advanced ability to "read" your knitting. Lace patterns are also more advanced than on the previous level, but the lace stitches are still worked on right side only. Intarsia may be included, but in relatively simple and symmetrical patterns.
Patterns
Patterns on this level can feature concurrent shaping, e.g. neckline shaping at the same time as sleeve decreases or sleeve decreases into cable pattern. Sweater sleeves may require more advanced shaping. Most of our sweaters are at this level. Other patterns include e.g. magic loop patterns and toe-up socks.
Advanced
Turn off that telly and lash the doors, maximum concetration required! Although this skill level doesn’t bring much more in terms of technique, there’s simply more going on at the same time. Skill, concentration and perception are requisite.
Technique
On this level, you’ll find more advanced intarsia patterns, including intarsia in the round. Brioche patterns with decreases and/or cables are also here. Beginning of rounds may shift and multiple markers are needed. Lace or cable stitches may be worked also from wrong side. We’ve also included patterns featuring steeks here. Steeking isn’t hard as such, but requires the nerves and confidence of an experienced knitter.
Patterns
Patterns may include complex steps and require simultaneous reading of both charts and written instructions. Gauge may vary over different steps of the project. The patterns often feature much details and a combination of techniques. The size of the project is not what determines whether it’s advanced or not; focus is on technique, overall complexity and the risk of errors during the project.
Gauge and Swatching
Every pattern is based on a certain gauge, expressed as stitches or rows per 10 cm. It is important that you make a swatch to check your gauge before you start the actual project. If your gauge doesn’t match the pattern’s gauge, your finished garment won’t be the correct size either.
Swatching Start by knitting a swatch. Use the yarn, the needles and the stitch pattern you intend to use in the project. Make the swatch a little wider than 10 cm, so that you’ll be able to measure the stitches properly. Block the swatch by pinning it to a surface, then steam it gently. Count the stitches; put a pin in a stitch, then measure 10 cm from that stitch and put another pin there. Count the stitches from pin to pin – that’s your gauge! If needed, measure both horizontal and vertical gauge (rows). If you’re measuring rib or brioche stitches, stretch out the swatch slightly before measuring.
Adjusting gauge
If your gauge doesn’t match the pattern gauge, you can adjust it by switching needle size. If your swatch has too few stitches per 10 cm (i.e. your knitting is too loose), switch to smaller needles. Conversely, if your swatch has too many stitches per 10 cm, your knitting is too tight and you’ll need a larger pair of needles. Always knit another swatch in order to determine proper gauge and sizing. Also note that the pattern yardage only applies to the pattern yarn, the yardage may differ if you choose another yarn.
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