The Nostalgic Popcorn Stitch Sweater Free Pattern

The Nostalgic Popcorn Stitch Sweater Free Pattern

Step back into the vibrant Y2K era with this delightful popcorn stitch sweater, featuring a playful texture and retro charm. Perfect for those who love to blend nostalgia with modern style.

Materials Needed

• Yarn: Worsted weight yarn in pastel pink, mint green, and butter yellow
• Needles: US 8 (5mm) knitting needles
• Gauge: 18 stitches and 24 rows = 4 inches in stockinette stitch

Step-by-Step Instructions

Back Panel

1. Cast on 90 stitches using the long tail cast-on method.
2. Work in 1x1 ribbing (knit 1, purl 1) for 2 inches. This will create a stretchy edge.
3. Switch to stockinette stitch (knit every row) and work for 4 rows.
4. Begin the popcorn stitch pattern:
   • Row 1 (Right Side): *Knit 4 stitches, make a popcorn: knit 1, purl 1, knit 1, purl 1, knit 1 into the next stitch, turn your work, purl 5 stitches, turn your work again, knit 5 stitches, pass the 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 5th stitches over the first stitch; repeat from * to the end of the row.
   • Row 2 (Wrong Side): Purl all stitches.

   Repeat these 2 rows until the piece measures 24 inches from the cast-on edge.

5. Shape the shoulders by binding off 10 stitches at the beginning of the next 4 rows. Bind off any remaining stitches.

Front Panel

1. Follow steps 1-4 as for the back panel.
2. At 20 inches from the cast-on edge, shape the neck by binding off the center 20 stitches.
3. Working each side separately, bind off 2 stitches at each neck edge every other row 3 times.
4. Shape the shoulders as you did for the back panel.

Sleeves

1. Cast on 40 stitches.
2. Work in 1x1 ribbing for 2 inches.
3. Increase 1 stitch at each end every 6th row until you have 70 stitches.
4. Continue in stockinette stitch until the sleeve measures 18 inches from the cast-on edge.
5. Bind off all stitches.

Finishing

1. Sew the shoulder seams together using a tapestry needle and matching yarn.
2. Pick up and knit 80 stitches around the neck edge to create a neckline border.
3. Work in 1x1 ribbing for 1 inch, then bind off all stitches loosely.
4. Set in the sleeves by aligning the sleeve caps with the armholes and sewing them in place.
5. Sew the side seams and sleeve seams together to complete the sweater.

Your Nostalgic Popcorn Stitch Sweater is now complete! Enjoy wearing this cozy, oversized piece that captures the playful spirit of the early 2000s.