One of the most charming features of 1930s knitting patterns is the “party” sweater, a glamourous piece which was often knit in rayon (the popular “artificial silk”) and saved for evening wear. Knit in a deep red wool-silk blend yarn, Frances aims to resurrect the party sweater for the modern knitter. It begins with a deep 1x1 ribbed waistband for a nipped-in look before gradually increasing to the bust, following the popular close-fitting silhouette that emerged during the 1930s. A beaded mesh section at the neck gives the illusion of a wide V-neck and echoes the clever neckline effects and embellishments that were popular during the 30s, as well as adding plenty of sparkle for that candle-lit party.

Sizes:
1 (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9)
Finished bust measurement: 75 (80, 85, 90, 95, 100, 105, 110, 115) cm / 30 (32, 34, 36, 38, 40, 42, 44, 46)”
The sweater is designed to fit with 0-5cm / 0-2” negative ease

Materials
830 (900, 960, 1010, 1120, 1184, 1260, 1366, 1440) m / 907 (984, 1049, 1105, 1224, 1294, 1376, 1494, 1575) yds of 4 ply / fingering weight yarn
Shown in:
Fyberspates Scrumptious 4 Ply / Sport Superwash (4 ply / fingering weight; 45% silk, 55% superwash merino; 365 m / 399 yds per 100g / 3½oz skein)
Shade: 301 Cherry; 3 (3, 3, 3, 4, 4, 4, 4) skeins
Approx. 120 (130, 140, 150, 160, 170, 180, 190) size 8 seed beads

Gauge:
28 sts & 40 rows to 10 cm / 4”, measured over stocking stitch with 2.75 mm needles, after blocking.

Needles:
2.75 mm / US 2 knitting needles
0.8 mm crochet hook (or hook small enough to fit through chosen beads)
Tapestry needle for seaming

Notes:
Frances is worked flat and seamed, with set-in sleeves. Beads are applied with a crochet hook. Both charted and written instructions for the beaded mesh pattern are included.