Underglaze Blue Sweater by Hanxiao Zhou

Underglaze Blue Sweater

Knitting
February 2026
Aran (8 wpi) ?
18 stitches and 24 rows = 4 inches
US 6 - 4.0 mm
US 2½ - 3.0 mm
1006 - 1897 yards (920 - 1735 m)
10 sizes available from XS1 to XL2
English
This pattern is available for €7.00 EUR buy it now

Inspired by my family’s extensive collection of underglaze blue porcelains, I envisioned an Icelandic sweater in blue and white. The design incorporates the “Endless Knot” motif, a symbol of wisdom, compassion, and ultimate unity in Buddhism and Chinese culture, representing one of the “Eight Auspicious Signs.”

Available in 10 sizes, this sweater is knitted seamlessly from the top down with three featured design elements:

  • Fitted collar: an optional, beginner-friendly German Short Rows method elongates the back collar for better fit, easily skipped if preferred.
  • Oriental-influenced slits: side slits feature bold contrasting stripes along slits and hemlines, inspired by Qing dynasty court dresses.
  • Balloon sleeves: sleeves with abrupt stitch decreases and long ribbed hems create an elegant, vintage silhouette.

Size

10 sizes (finalized bust circumference after blocking) are provided: XS1 (88 cm), XS2 (92 cm), S1 (99 cm), S2 (103 cm), M1 (110 cm), M2 (114 cm), L1 (121 cm), L2 (126 cm), XL1 (132 cm), XL2 (137 cm). The model is knitted in size S1 for an oversized fit (160cm height, 50kg weight, 88cm chest circumference/75A).

Yarns and gauge

The sweater uses classic Icelandic Léttlopi yarn (100% new wool, 50g/100m) worked on 4mm needles to achieve a gauge of 18 stitches and 24 rows per 10cm square after blocking.

  • Léttlopi 0051 White
  • Léttlopi 9419 Ocean Blue
  • Léttlopi 1402 Heaven Blue

Needles

  • 4mm circular needles for the yoke, main body, body hems and sleeves
  • 3mm circular/ double pointed needles for collar and the sleeve ribs.

I hope this unique design becomes your new favorite item:) Happy knitting!