Test knitting round-up for Blossom

I originally wrote this sweater pattern in 2020, in the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic. It was tech edited by Kristina McGrath and test knit by 28 wonderful test knitters. In 2024, 3 more of us test knit the final version of the pattern. 28 folks have opted to share pictures with us, and I'm delighted to spotlight their beautiful work.

The pandemic and its impact extended far longer than anyone anticipated—and, in many ways, the pandemic's social impact continues. I put this pattern on hold while tending to other business, personal and health needs. In 2024, I revised the pattern to incorporate more things I'd learned about sweater shaping and to make small fit adjustments based on test knitter feedback and fit.

Blossom was and is a relaxed fit sweater, and many of the shaping details I added aren't readily apparent, but I think you'll feel them in the finished sweater.

I want to acknowledge the amazing work of my original test knitters and share their work below. Please note that, except where noted, the photos do not reflect the following changes to the pattern (in other words, your sweater will reflect the following):

• Narrowed neck circumference for most sizes and standardized it across the size range
• Revised neckline shaping for a lower front neckline, which gives the sweater a more comfortable fit
• Improved the yoke depth across the size range to make it more consistent
• Increased the recommended ease for all sizes to approximately 4 inches
• Increased overall sleeve circumference for all sizes to give a better fit and to standardize ease across the size range
• Decreased the bicep circumference in sizes 9 & 10
• Adjusted sleeve length to end at a true three-quarter length based on more extensive sizing information

A deep and heartfelt thank you to my original set of test knitters: Ana, Andrea, Angela, Anna, Beth, Betsy, Bev, Buffie, Chelsea, Denise, Donna, Elselynn, Erin, Hanna, Jasmin, Jennifer, Jess, Karalee, Kristin, Leigh Ann, Oleshia, Rita, Rose, Sara, Sarah, Stephanie, Sunbel, and Yiming.

An extra special thank you to Karalee and Cassie who test knit the newest version of this pattern, sizes 5 (as worn by Tyne) and 7 respectively.

Note: Ease measurements, below, are given based on actual bust/chest circumference as compared to each knitter's actual finished sweater circumference.

Size 1

Size 2

 

 

Size 3

Size 4

 

Size 5

Tyne (final version of the pattern) with 7 1/4 inches of ease

Size 6

Sarah with 7 inches of ease; see more of Sarah's beautiful knitting at @sarahwarburtonauthor (and read her books too!)

Size 7

Size 8

Size 9