Autumn Edit – Sweater #3: Pullovers
We began our Autumn Edit with one beautiful accessory, the Churchmouse Quadrangle Wrap, a timeless piece that sets the tone for everything that follows. From there, we moved into the sweaters that form the backbone of a handmade wardrobe: first the shell, then the cardigan.
This week, we are finishing the trio with the pullover. It is the easy, dependable piece that pulls your whole wardrobe together.
A good pullover makes getting dressed simple. It is the one you reach for without thinking. Throw it on with jeans for errands, layer it over a shirt for work, or pair it with a long skirt for dinner. Change the mood with a scarf or a statement necklace, and suddenly it feels like a whole new outfit.
Whether you prefer simple stitches or intricate cables, a neat tailored fit or a cozy oversized shape, there is a pullover for every mood and every maker. This week is about finding the one that feels most like you.
Rowan Kid Classic pullovers we love
Rowan Kid Classic is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year, and the designs in Rowan Magazine 78 highlight exactly why this yarn has stood the test of time. The blend of lambswool and kid mohair gives it a soft halo and a luxurious hand, while still delivering crisp stitch definition that makes every texture sing.
- Adore by Lisa Richardson – a soft, modern pullover with relaxed fit and graceful drape. The wide turtleneck and deep ribbed cuffs look equally chic with jeans, trousers, or a silk skirt.
- Lust by Lisa Richardson – an all over pattern of knits and purls for knitters who get bored with stockinette. Engaging to work and quietly elegant to wear.
The halo effect
A little bit of haze has been a thing for quite a while. Part of the charm of Kid Classic is that it already includes a fine strand of kid mohair plied in, which creates a soft, flattering halo that makes every sweater feel special.
That same appeal is what we love about holding two yarns together: a smooth strand for structure plus a halo yarn like mohair or silk for softness and depth. The result is a round, luminous fabric with beautiful life and movement.
Double strand beauty: more pullovers to love
- Kiki by Britt Marie – from the designer who brought us Lova. Kiki combines ITO So Kosho with Sensai for a soft, fluid drape and elegant bell sleeves that make you feel instantly put together. We should have the sample of this in the shop soon.
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Moon Set Pullover by Ozetta – an easy, relaxed silhouette that shines in Cardiff Cashmere (which we just ordered!!!) for quiet elegance or Fine Lace held with Kidsilk Haze for a whisper light effect. (Gonna slip her Seaway Pullover in here too, because it's perfect
- Braidy Loop Sweater – playful modern texture with lots of yarn flexibility. Try Rambouillet, a gorgeously soft new yarn from Juniper Moon in elegant natural shades Mode Alpaca Soft DK, or create your own DK by holding a lace weight yarn with Trinity Cashmere or a fingering weight yarn with Ito Sensai or Kidsilk Haze
All five (six) of these sweaters are true wardrobe pieces. Each is distinct in style and texture, yet all are beautifully wearable. Find one that suits your personal aesthetic and your preferred knitting rhythm and cast on - you'll be surprised how quickly they knit up.
Yarn pairing tips for the perfect pullover fabric
- Build a DK or worsted fabric by holding two lighter yarns together. Fingering wool plus lace mohair gives structure plus halo. Fingering wool plus cashmere lace gives softness without fuzz.
- Color strategy: close in tone for subtle depth and a polished look; higher contrast for a marled effect with visual energy.
- Swatch and block to check gauge and fabric behavior. Two strand fabrics can bloom and relax with steam or wet blocking.
Why pullovers matter in your Autumn Edit
Pullovers are the knitwear equivalent of comfort food. They are familiar, satisfying, and endlessly adaptable. They layer beautifully under coats and cardigans, and they can stand alone as a statement piece. As the weather cools, they become the sweater you reach for first. Warm, comfortable, and effortlessly stylish.
What is next
We have now covered two sweaters in our Autumn Edit, the shell and the cardigan, and today we finished the trio with the pullover. Next week we will look at layering pieces, including vests and wraps that add warmth without bulk. I will also review one of Rowan’s brand new yarns, Alpaca Sparkle, which adds just the right touch of shimmer to your fall wardrobe.