In music, the downbeat is the first beat of the measure - the steady anchor that sets rhythm and melody in motion. The Downbeat sweater embodies that same spirit of possibility, serving as the starting point for your creativity. Keep it simple and let the yarn take center stage, or use it as a backdrop for your own creative riffs. Either way, like every great song, it all begins with the downbeat!

This piece features top-down, seamless raglan construction with short rows to shape the neckline. There are options for 2 different lengths as well as no body shaping or A-line body shaping.

PATTERN INFORMATION:

Sizes: 1 (2, 3, 4) (5, 6, 7) (8, 9, 10)

Finished Bust Circumference:
34.75 (38.5, 41.5, 45.25) (48, 51.75, 55.5) (58.25, 62, 66)”/ 88 (98, 105, 115) (122, 131, 141) (148, 157, 168) cm

Picking Your Size:
I suggest picking a size that is approx 3-8”/8-20 cm larger than your actual bust measurement, depending on your desired fit.

Shown in size 2 (cropped length, A-line option), being worn with approx 4-5”/10-13 cm of positive ease at the bust.

Gauge: 17 sts & 26 rnds = 4”/10 cm in St st in the rnd after blocking.

Yarn: Worsted-weight yarn, shown in Ultra Alpaca by Berroco (50% wool, 50% alpaca; 100g = 219 yds), color Hops 62195. Yardage broken down below based on length option:

• CROPPED LENGTH: Approx 750 (825, 875, 975) (1050, 1150, 1225) (1300, 1425, 1525) yds, 4 (4, 4, 5) (5, 6, 6) (6, 7, 7) skeins.

• STANDARD LENGTH: Approx 850 (925, 1000, 1100) (1175, 1300, 1375) (1450, 1600, 1700) yds, 4 (5, 5, 6) (6, 6, 7) (7, 8, 8) skeins.

Needles & Other Supplies:

• For body/gauge: US 8/5 mm 24”/60 cm and 32”/80 cm circ, or size needed to obtain gauge (note: sizes 7-10 may also want to consider a 40”/100 cm long circ for the body sections).
• For neck ribbing & neck short rows: US 7/4.5 mm 16”/40 cm circ, or 1 needle size smaller than that used to obtain gauge.
• For hem ribbing: US 7/4.5 mm 32”/80 cm circ, or 1 needle size smaller than that used to obtain gauge.
• For sleeves: US 8/5 mm DPNs, or same size as used to obtain gauge (or you can use 32”/80 cm circ if working magic loop method).
• For sleeve cuffs: US 7/4.5 mm DPNs, or 1 needle size smaller than that used to obtain gauge (or a 32”/80 cm circ if working magic loop method).
• 4 stitch markers (one a different style than others).
• 1 locking stitch marker.
• Stitch holder cords or scrap yarn.
• Tapestry needle.