SOFT SERVE Test Knitting Specs

SOFT SERVE is a sport/DK-weight cardigan with all-over texture and compound raglan construction. Worked in the round and steeked, with crewneck and v-neck options.

Yarn support is available from De Rerum Natura with 15% off Ulysse (sport) or Pénélope (DK). Discount code will be provided to testers upon acceptance.

TEST DATES:

October 6, 2025 - December 5, 2025

This test knit will be hosted on Slack.

Applications will be considered based on your responses, portfolio, and level of experience for this given project.

There are 2-3 testing spots per size and variation (crew or v-neck) available. Once spots are filled, there is an option to be waitlisted in case a spot opens up before the test start date.

The test begins on Monday, October 6th, 2025, when a formatted, fully tech-edited pattern will be sent to testers who have completed a gauge swatch. Testers will be selected by Friday, September 12th.

Test knitter requirements

  • Previous experience in knitting garments

  • Previous experience in test knitting for designers or publications

  • Knowledge of standard swatching for gauge purposes

  • Knowledge of wet or steam blocking garments to measurements

  • Ability to learn new techniques and problem-solve independently

  • Attention to detail when reading patterns, especially with multiple sizes

  • Ability and willingness to photograph FO in clear, natural lighting

  • Consistent communication throughout test duration

Pattern info

SIZING

1, 2, 3, (4, 5, 6), ((7, 8, 9))

Upper chest measurement (body):

31.75, 33.5, 35.75, (39.25, 42.25, 44.5), ((47.5, 50.5, 53.5))”/ 79.5, 84, 89.5, (98, 105.5, 111.5), ((119, 126.5, 134)) cm

Finished bust circumference (garment):

34, 37.5, 40.5, (44, 47.5, 50.5), ((54, 59, 64))”/ 85, 94, 101.5, (110, 119, 126.5), ((135, 147.5, 160)) cm

It is recommended that you choose the size that corresponds with your upper chest measurement, which is the circumference of your body just under the armpits. If your measurement falls between sizes, choose the size closest to your measurement (e.g. if your upper chest measures 45”/112.5cm, you will choose size 6).

For more explanation and a visual reference of where to measure: https://onewilddesigns.com/blogs/articles/using-the-upper-chest-measurement-to-choose-your-sweater-size

Suggested fit is 10% positive ease at bust. For more detailed measurements, see schematic below.

MATERIALS 

Yarn: 

Sport weight or DK weight wool or wool blend yarn, worsted or woolen spun, at least 2-ply for optimal stitch definition

Note that using sport weight and/or woolen spun yarn will create a thinner, more lightweight fabric, whereas DK weight and/or worsted spun yarn will create a denser and warmer fabric.

De Rerum Natura Pénélope, 90% organic Merinos d'Arles (France) / 10% mulberry silk (China), 145 yds/133m per 50 g (DK weight, worsted spun)

De Rerum Natura Ulysse, French mérinos d'Arles and Portuguese black merino woolen spun in France, 202 yds/185m per 50 g (sport weight, woolen spun)

Sample shown is crewneck in size 4 using Pénélope in colorway Crème.

Yardage:

Crewneck

1370, 1434, 1574, (1710, 1808, 1959), ((2054, 2249, 2431)) yds/ 1253, 1311, 1439, (1564, 1653, 1791), ((1878, 2056, 2223)) m

V-neck

1300, 1361, 1488, (1612, 1709, 1846), ((1934, 2119, 2285)) yds/ 1189, 1245, 1361, (1474, 1563, 1688), ((1768, 1937, 2089)) m

These numbers are estimates based on the pattern measurements as written. Your actual yardage may vary based on the weight of yarn used and/or any modifications you choose to make.

Needle size:

US 6/4.00m, or size needed to obtain gauge, 16”/40cm, 24”/ 60cm, and 32-47”/ 80-117.5cm circulars for raglan increases and body,  DPNS or long circular for Magic Loop for sleeves

US 5/3.75mm, or one size smaller than main needle, 16”/ 40cm circular for collar (crewneck), DPNs or long circular for Magic Loop for cuffs, and 32-60”/ 80-150cm circular for collar (v-neck) and button band

Depending on the yarn used, your needle size may vary to obtain gauge.

Tools: Scrap yarn/spare cables, stitch markers, tapestry needle

Notions: .75-1”/ 2-2.5cm buttons (4 for v-neck, 8 for crewneck)

Samples use ceramic buttons from Haulin’ Hoof Farm

Gauge: 

24 sts x 36 rows = 4” x 4” (10cm x 10cm) in texture pattern, in the round for crewneck and flat for v-neck, after washing and blocking

You should prioritize row gauge for this pattern. Guidance is provided to adjust sizes if stitch gauge is too small after meeting row gauge.

SKILLS

German short rows, increases and decreases, cable knitting/twisted stitches, steeking