Whether you’re setting out on your first adventure or confidently charting a familiar course, every journey begins with a single stitch.

This timeless top-down pullover is inspired by one of Amy March’s most beloved quotes from Little Women: “I’m not afraid of storms, for I’m learning how to sail my ship.” Designed in luxurious DK-weight yarn, it pairs clean, modern lines with subtle texture for a sweater you’ll reach for season after season.

Worked seamlessly from the top down using the contiguous method, the pattern features thoughtfully placed texture that is relaxing to knit while adding just the right amount of visual interest. Customize your sweater with an optional cozy shawl collar or a classic neckline, as well as an optional split hem for effortless everyday wear.

The result is a polished, versatile sweater that feels equally at home on crisp autumn mornings, cool spring evenings, or curled up with a favorite book.

As with all Nurture Knitwear patterns, the instructions have been carefully written to guide you through each step with confidence, creating an enjoyable knitting experience from cast-on to bind-off.

Whether you’re knitting your very first sweater or adding another handmade favorite to your wardrobe, this pattern invites you to slow down, embrace the process, and enjoy the journey—one stitch at a time.

Size
29.25 (33.25, 37.25, 41.25, 45.25) 49.25, 53.25, 57.25, 60.5”/ 74.5 (84.5, 94.5, 105, 115) 125, 135.5, 145.5, 153.5 cm

Yarn
Shawl Collar - 1145 (1260, 1445, 1715, 1865) 2145, 2420, 2675, 2790 yds/1045 (1150, 1320, 1570, 1705) 1960, 2215, 2445, 2550 m
Standard Collar - 1050 (1165, 1340, 1605, 1740) 2025, 2300, 2550, 2665 yds/960 (1065, 1225, 1470, 1590) 1850, 2105, 2330, 2435 m

Recommended Yarn
Bad Sheep Yarn DK (75/25 Superwash Merino & Nylon) 245 yds/225 m, 100 g — 5 (6, 6, 7, 8) 9, 10, 11, 12 skeins (Shawl Collar) OR 5 (5, 6, 7, 8) 9, 10, 11, 11 skeins (Standard Collar) in Amy (Little Women Collection)

Needles & Notions
US 4/3.5 mm – 32-48”/80-120 cm and DPNs or Magic Loop – preferred method of small circumference knitting (or needles needed to obtain gauge!)
US 3/3.25 mm - 16” & 40+”/40 & 100+ cm and DPNs or Magic Loop – preferred method of small circumference knitting (or needles 2 sizes smaller than needles needed to obtain gauge!)
Stitch markers
Tapestry needle
Spare cables or waste yarn

Techniques to Indulge In
A knit/purl texture (every 4th round)
Easy top-down yoke with the fit of a set-in sleeve, aka the contiguous method
Optional shawl collar & split hem
Notes to tailor the fit to your fabulous body & preferences