Hi all! I saw a lovely jumper/pullover while watching a TV show (photos attached) and found a pattern that is very close to what I want to knit. However, there are two things I want/need to change: 1) I want a “closer” knit, so will need to choose a smaller needle size (the pattern calls for 10mm or US15 needles; I’m thinking I’ll want to use size US10.5 or 11, and 2) I want to add a rib to the V-neck like in the photo - the pattern I have does not have it. I’ve not modified a pattern before, so looking for suggestions as to where I can find a tutorial or book that will help me to learn how to adapt. Thanks so much!
Hello
I don’t think I’ve made a single pattern without some sort of modification, I do sometimes wish I could just be happy to follow the pattern as the added work is not always what I want to do at that time, however, I do often enjoy the process of modification and I do believe hand knitting "should " be what we want it to be.
What is the pattern you are taking as a basic to follow?
The first thing I would do is make a good sized swatch to try out your needle sizes and find your gauge. Making the swatch bigger than 10 x 10 cm so you can measure across a centre piece. Perhaps make a few with the different sized needles to see which works out as you like it. The swatch needs to be blocked or washed to show the finished fabric.
You can also swatch for the ribbing to get a rib you like on the hem and cuffs. These swatches will be super helpful in working out the neck ribbing.
You might want to start your swatch with the needle size on your yarn band and adjust from there for a nice fabric.
I don’t have a book recommendation which you asked for, I have used various helpful tutorials online and had help here.
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Hi there and thank you! I purchased the pattern on Ravelry. It’s called the Agnes Sweater from www.throughthestitch.com. I can’t share the pattern here as I am not allowed to share or distribute the pattern or photos. I hate to give you another step, but you’ll have to look for it on Ravelry. 
As for the blocking, I am planning to combine two yarns for the main part: Sublime baby cashmere merino silk (calls for 4mm needles) and MadTosh + Shibui Knits Silk Cloud (calls for 4.5mm needles). Using a contrasting yarn combo for cuffs and neck (ArtYarns silk + sequins light (calls for US6 needles) with ArtYarns Rhapsody (silk & kid mohair - calls for US 7 needles). My only concern is washing the yarns, as they are so delicate. Haven’t done that before - hoping it doesn’t change the overall look and feel of the finished garment.
I know I am probably getting in over my head, but I’m looking forward to the challenge! Thanks for your suggestions. I will also look for video tutorials on YouTube.
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Very pretty sweater that you’re aiming for.
Ann Budd has a very nice book of patterns ("The Knitter’s Handy Book of Sweater Patterns) and modifications for all types of sweater in various gauges. My public library has a copy and you might just try yours to see if her book helps.
https://annbuddknits.com/books/
It’s the second book on her page.
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Thank you so much!! I will look for it now.
I found the answer - seems that I should use the misting technique vs. wet blocking for these particular yarns. The Silk Cloud is so thin and fine, I don’t know if I can wind it!!
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You are right not to post the pattern but a link to where someone can purchase it is okay as they may get more business if someone here likes the pattern
If you are working,I guess with 2 strands held together (which is, I think what you say) then the needle size on the ball band won’t help as that’s for a single strand of the individual yarn. You can try the needle sizes you have mentioned as a starting point and just see how the fabric turns out. You may need a few swatches to compare the tension and see if it is as close knit as you want whilst still providing the amount of drape you want/need to obtain the look.
You might not be close to the gauge on the Agnes sweater which could mean working to a different size, or calculating and designing your own sweater, or seeking another similar looking pattern which is already at a close gauge so you can follow the stitch count and shaping.
The balls bands often have wash instructions. Whilst you might be happy with mist blocking initially I’m sure at some point you’ll want to be able to wash the sweater so trying out the recommended washing instructions would be my preferred way to check out the swatch fabric before making a full sweater.
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This is so very helpful, thank you! And a great idea to post the link - I appreciate that. You’re right about the gauge using multiple strands held together, I know. I’ll need to knit a few swatches. With ArtYarns, they recommend dry clean only…so I may be having to rethink the whole thing. But I love the yarns I’ve selected and I really want to make this work. It will most certainly be my most challenging project (especially winding the Shibui Silk Cloud which is so very fine) but it will be a work of love. Thank you again!
Looking forward to seeing pics of your progress with this lovely sweater.
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Thank you! I’m going to need encouragement on this one. :-). Photos of the yarn (that, yes, still needs to be wound - step 1!!)
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Fabulous mix of yarns. It’ll be a treat to see this sweater!
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Beautiful yarns. I’ve used that sublime myself and it so soft and lovely! It pills quite quickly though, I think a tighter gauge may help reduce the pilling although I am only saying that from something I read once and I’m not really sure.
Love the colours and textures.
I’ve never wound yarn before, have you?
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