Renaissance Pullover     Renaissance began with a simple pleat swatched in Classic Elite's Renaissance yarn. I carried this swatch around in my pocket for a few days mulling over what it would become. Ideas came and went, until finally (after a few more swatches) the right combination of pleats and decreases took shape into the sweater you see here. Pleats are a lot of fun and they're my favorite part of this design. Pleats can add a touch of interest, while also decreasing lots of stitches at once. As fun as pleats are to me, I didn't want to overdo them. On the back of the sweater there are two dart-like decreases designed to mimic the look of the front pleat, but without creating any bulky fabric, and still maintaining the same style. The A-line shape is flattering for many many sizes and shapes, so the pattern is written for a range of sizes. Knitty's editor, Amy, asked if I could knit the model garment to show how beautifully it flatters the contours of a curvy woman.       free  view now Sizes: XS (S, M, L, XL, 2XL, 3XL) Finished Measurements: 31 (34½, 38½, 42, 46, 50, 53½)" Yarn Requirements: Renaissance by Classic Elite 100% wool 50 gram hank = approx 110 yards • 9 (10, 10, 11, 12, 13, 13) hanks 7138 Espresso Knitting Needles: • One pair size US 9 (5.5 mm) • One set double pointed needles size US 9 (5.5 mm) Or size to obtain gauge. Gauge: 17 sts and 27 rows = 4" in 2 x 6 Rib stretched. Take time to save time, check your gauge.       Photos courtesy of Kristen TenDyke.