Description

Multicolor Turtleneck Sweater – 1980s Knitting Pattern: Instant PDF Download

Size: Small (8–10), Medium (12–14), Large (16–18)

Bold contrasting colors and cables — this 1980s Multicolor Turtleneck Sweater is retro knitwear in its purest form. Three colorways are worked side by side down the body in vertical panels, each seam disguised by a running cable that snakes between the blocks of color. It’s a cable stitch turtleneck sweater with genuine visual drama, finished with a cozy ribbed turtleneck collar knit in the round. A rewarding project for intermediate knitters who enjoy colorwork planning and confident cable technique.

Design & Construction Details

Skill Level: Intermediate.
Construction: Worked flat in pieces (back, front, and sleeves) each cast on in three separate color blocks joined on the first row, then worked in a 16-row cable and rib pattern; full-fashioned armhole, neck, and shoulder shaping, with a turtleneck collar picked up and knit in the round on double-pointed needles.
Finished Measurements: Bust: size S: 33”; size M: 37”; size L: 41”; Sleeve length :approx. 17″–18″.
Pattern Style: Written in standard US knitting terms, no charts required — color and cable placement given row by row.
Stitches: K1, P1 rib in three colors; 4-stitch traveling cable; stockinette stitch.

Recommended Materials & Tools

Yarn: Bernat Berella “4”, worsted weight yarn (100 g balls) — approximately 3–4 balls Color A, 2–3 balls Color B, 1–2 balls Color C.
Substitute Yarn: Modern worsted weight yarn such as Patons Classic Wool Worsted, Lion Brand Vanna’s Choice or Cascade Yarns Worsted.
Knitting Needles Size: US 6 and US 9 / 4 mm and 5.5 mm (or size needed to obtain gauge), plus a set of US 6 / 4 mm double-pointed needles and a cable needle.
Notions: Bobbins (for color changes).
Gauge: 9 sts = 2″ (5 cm).

This is a digitally restored PDF knitting pattern
Upon purchase, you will receive an instant digital download — a clean, easily readable PDF. The original vintage instructions have been digitally enhanced, reformatted, and checked for clarity, ensuring a smooth crafting experience from start to finish.