Knit This Sweater: Ursa by Jacqueline Cieslak
I knit the Ursa sweater designed by Jacqueline Cieslak using Ewe Ewe Baa Baa Bulky merino yarn and here in this blog post you'll find all of my notes for what size to make, how much yarn you'll need and any other modifications I made while knitting this project!
Why did I knit the Ursa sweater pattern?
I love how it looks and I think it would be a great addition to my closet!
The Ursa sweater knitting pattern has longs sleeves and falls right at my waistline skimming the top of my jeans.
It features a decorative half-brioche stitch in a pyramid shape creating a cool waist detail. The half-brioche stitch is also used to create the look of side seams and highlight the raglan increases on the shoulders.
What size Ursa sweater did I knit?
I knit the third size listed in the pattern instructions with the 42 inch bust circumference. To give you an idea of the fit, I am 40" when measured around at the full bust while wearing a bra and and thin shirt. This finished sweater has about 2” of positive ease making it a little roomy and comfortable.
How much yarn did I use?
I used 6 balls of Ewe Ewe Yarns Baa Baa Bulky which has 132 yards per ball. When i first read the pattern, I estimated that I’d need 5 skeins but after knitting a gauge swatch and the entirety of the sweater, I needed that sixth ball.
Has anyone else knit the Ursa sweater with Baa Baa Bulky yarn?
Yes! If you have a minute you can see Meaghan’s version in 05 Cotton Candy and then take a look at Jesse’s Ursa sweater in 75 Sky Blue. The color I picked is 45 Soft Sage but we have 22 yarn colors to choose from and it would great in any of them!
Did I make any modifications?
The only adaption I made was to crochet around the neckline instead of following the pattern instructions to pick up and bind off. I used an N 10mm crochet hook and worked 1 row of slip stitch to tighten the v-neck.
Is there anything I’d do differently?
I worked the bust darts for a person with a C cup bra size as recommended in the pattern but I don’t think I needed to. When knit in Baa Baa Bulky yarn, the final sweater is so bouncy and stretchy that I think the fit would have been fine without those short rows.
Would I recommend the Ursa knitting pattern?
This is an absolute, YES! The instructions were easy to follow plus there are great tutorials on how to work the half-brioche stitch from Jacqueline and from me. The final sweater is comfortable and I know I will wear it a lot!
Here's what you'll need:
Knit an Ursa sweater for yourself!
Pattern: Ursa — on Ravelry.
Yarn requirements: Ewe Ewe Yarns Baa Baa Bulky merino wool yarn, 132 yards, 100g.
(4, 5, 6) [6, 7, 7] {8, 8, 9} skeins.
Finished Measurements: (34, 38, 42) [46, 50, 54] {58, 62, 66} inches at bust
Sizing notes from the designer: To choose your size, measure the circumference around the fullest part of your bust, then add 2-6” (depending on how much ease you want) and choose the closest size.
Needles: US 11 (8 mm) 32” (if making sizes 34-46) or 40” (if making sizes 50-66) circular knitting needles.
— US 11 (8 mm) double-pointed needles for sleeves (or small circumference knitting method of your choice such as magic loop or 2 circulars).
Note: The pattern calls for size US 10.5 (6.5 mm) knitting needles but I got gauge on US 11 (8 mm) needles. Be sure to check your gauge before starting the sweater!
Notions: 7 coordinating stitch markers, 3 contrasting stitch markers, stitch holders or scrap yarn for holding stitches, darning needle for finishing.
Here's a video overview of how the pattern is knit!
Knitting the Ursa sweater pattern was a medium adventure challenge – not too hard but a little bit more advanced. If you've knit a sweater before you can make this one, though!
I encourage you to try knitting the Ursa sweater with Ewe Ewe Baa Baa Bulky yarn. I am happy to answer any questions you might have about sizing or yarn amounts. Just email me here and I'll help you!
Happy knitting,
💗 Heather
