All photographs copyright Jonathan Herzog 2013 and used with permission. Technical Editing by Elizabeth Sullivan.

Alta is what happened when I tried to imagine an updated version of the old-school ski sweater, done in a way that flatters the figure. It has a few modern updates, but will still keep you toasty warm all winter. The luscious wool-silk blend in a large, modern turtleneck positively cuddles your neck. The longer sleeves do the same for your wrists. The cables are intricate enough to be interesting but aren’t fussy, lending a classic look to this longer sweater. Vertical waist shaping darts keep everything supremely flattering. The combination of lace and cablework gives the sweater a somewhat delicate feel.

And of course, the yarn can’t be beat. Spirit Trail Fiberworks Birte is a glorious blend of wool and silk that lends just the right drape, color depth, and sheen to this classic sweater. Should you desire to substitute yarn, please choose a yarn that produces a slightly springy, drapey fabric at gauge.

Alta is constructed in pieces from the bottom up, with set-in sleeves. The neckline is picked up and worked after seaming.

Vertical darts enable easy customization to fit your needs. Should you desire less waist shaping than specified, either omit the shaping rows entirely, or omit/reduce only the shaping on the front of the sweater. Bustier women can work more increases on the front of the sweater, and not in the back. Extra stitches should be decreased into the neckline.

As with all patterns, compare the schematic against your own measurements and make alterations as necessary.

Thanks so much for your support!

Please Note: If you’d like to use CustomFit to create a custom version of Alta, please read all about CustomFit mash-ups and get a worksheet for this sweater here.