Stefano was principally inspired by the brickwork patterns of the beautiful medieval churches of Northern Italy - in particular, San Stefano in Bologna. But I have to confess that the sleeves come from closer to home, the vaulted ceilings of English Perpendicular Gothic cathedrals.

The different stitch patterns, which are all modelled on architecture, work perfectly with a fitted sweater, as each has a different tension - so all of the shaping is created by changing stitch patterns rather then increasing or decreasing.

Featuring rib, cables, braiding and textured patterns, it will appeal to confident knitters who are happy to try a couple of new techniques!

It’s worked from the bottom up in the round with a little grafting and three needle cast off to finish.

The length of the body and sleeves can easily be changed to your preference.

The pattern is written with charts provided for the body stitch patterns.