Construction and Customization Notes
The sweater is constructed in three segments (the back panel and two front panels). Each panel is started from the bottom edge and then worked in rows (from the bottom of the panel up) to the correct length, and then they are seamed together. This technique makes the pattern easily customizable and super beginner-friendly.
I’ve included some ideas here for customizing this pattern to your body and ideal fit. It is easy to size up or down as a whole or to adjust the individual panel sizes based on where you want the changes. You could also lengthen it by repeating rows at any point before the decreases at the tops of the panels.
It is currently graded for sizes XS through 2XL, with the finished size of each varying by just over 1.5 inches in each of the panel widths, or a total of just about 4 inches in total circumference difference. This piece has a lot of stretch, and is designed with about 3 inches of positive ease. These are easily customizable if you want looser panels in the front or across the back, just make sure that you add stitches in odd numbers for the ch-1 spaces to line up and look right. If you want a size larger than 2X (or just want a looser fit) you can size up super easily by simply adding stitches at the beginning or throughout the panel(s) depending on where you want a change.
If you choose to lengthen any of the panels or make them wider, you will need more yarn. If you do choose to substitute and use a different weight 4 yarn, just check your gauge and make sure the drape is looking good!