A Rachis is the central shaft of a feather, or the main stem of a grass. The variations of stitch pattern included in this sweater are based on the class feather stitch. They all stem from a feather, hence ‘Rachis’.

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The Feather stitch is a great classic lace stitch pattern, with yarnovers that create strong vertical lines. Lace isn’t always what I want to wear though. By changing from yarnovers to lifted increases, the feel of the pattern is maintained, but the pattern closes up so layering isn’t needed.  Rachis Pullover includes both options so that you can decide whether you want an open garment or something with more coverage  With two options in length, this pullover can take you from Spring to Fall. 

Both versions of Rachis are knit bottom up and in the round until the front and back are divided at the yoke. The front and back are then worked flat separately. The shoulders are shaped using German short rows, then joined using your choice of either kitchener stitch or a three needle bind off. The neckline is picked up and worked last.

Sizing
S (M, L, XL)(2X,3X,4X)
Finished Measurements (Bust)
37 (42, 46, 50)(55, 59, 64) inches
93 (106,116,126)(139,150,162) cm

Gauge
22 sts and 30 rows in 4” (10cm) in Stocking Stitch on US Size 5 (3.75mm) needles, or needles to get gauge
7 sts Feather repeat = 1” (2.5 cm) on gauge needles
13 sts Extended Feather repeat = 1.75” (4.5 cm) on gauge needles

Yarn
Madelinetosh Tosh Sock,(100% Superwash Merino fingering Weight wool) at 395 yds (361 m) per skein, or a sock weight yarn with similar properties. Cotton or Linen yarns that knit up to gauge will also work well here.

Cropped, Open Lace:
Skeins: 3(3,3,3)(4,4,4) in colour “Rey”
Yds: 815(924, 1025, 1114) (1241, 1332, 1444)
Meters: 745(844,937,1018)(1135,1217, 1320)

Long, Closed Lace:
Skeins: 3(4,4,4)(4,5,5) in colour “Aura”
Yds: 1082 (1227, 1357, 1475) (1640, 1760, 1909)
Meters: 988 (1121, 1241, 1348) (1499, 1608, 1744)

Techniques Used:
Reading Lace Charts. Lace instructions are in Chart form only.
Working in the round and flat.
German Short rows.
Three needle bind off OR Kitchener stitch.