By the time you are done with The Universal Sweater Method, you will have a sweater, but it’s not a pattern as you know it. It is a method of freeing yourself from the constraints of a pattern and fixing yourself on a path towards independence in garment making and design. Over the last several years, my goal has been to take the intimidation out of garment making, and as a result, I have developed this method to be completely goof-proof. Once mastered, it will allow you to consistently create perfect, custom-fit garments every time, using any stitch pattern, in any yarn, in any hook size, in any garment size. You really cannot mess this up.

If you know how to make neat, even rows and rounds of double crochet, you can make this sweater. This beginner-friendly tutorial includes lots of pictures and instructions for a pullover, cardigan, and dress. The amount and type of yarn you use will depend on you. Your gauge will depend on you. Your hook size will depend on you. This is a method to teach you how to work with your existing materials to transcend your current skillset, and free you from the pattern.