Ursa Minor

URSA MINOR is the little sister to URSA. It is a small bear of a sweater — chunky, bold, snuggly, fierce. With simple construction and subtle detailing, this cropped bulky weight pullover is a quick and enjoyable knit. The sweater is constructed from the top-down with raglan shaping for the sleeves and optional horizontal bust darts in 3 cup sizes. The pattern includes directions to try it on as you work and notations to help you tweak the size (including the length, if cropped isn’t your thing!) according to your preference. Also included in the pattern are links to custom video tutorials that will walk you through the techniques for half brioche stitch and German short rows.

Yarn requirements by yardage: (450, 500, 550) [600, 675, 750] {825, 900, 950}

Sizes by finished bust circumference
In inches: (34, 38, 42) [46, 50, 54] {58, 62, 66} inches
In cm: (86.5, 96.5, 106.5) [117, 127, 137] {147.5, 157.5, 167.5} cm

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. If you are between sizes, you can size up or down depending on whether you want more or less ease in the bicep (see full schematics illustration in the photos to the left).

In the photos, Valerie is wearing a 46” with C/D bust darts with 4” of ease in the bust and 1.5” of ease in the bicep.

Gauge: 11.5 sts and 20 rows over 4” in blocked stockinette stitch

Recommended needles: two circular needles, US 10.5 (6.5 mm) and US 9 (5.5 mm), with 32” (sizes 34-46) or 40” (sizes 50-66) cords; DPNs for sleeves if not using magic loop

Notions: stitch markers (including 3 contrasting options), stitch holders or scrap yarn, darning needle

Pattern Includes: Written instructions

Skill Level: Beginner - Intermediate

Photos © Jacqueline Cieslak