This sweater comes with a bit of history. Years ago my friend was tending bar between regular jobs. One night a guy walked in wearing a hand knit Aran sweater. My friend complimented the sweater, and he in turn complimented the cute little sweater she was wearing. She jokingly asked if he wanted to trade, and he took her up on it!. They exchanged sweaters right there, and she’s treasured the sweater ever since. After 20+ years of service the sweater was worn beyond repair. The Sweater Off His Back is my re-creation of this beloved sweater. Since it was originally a man’s sweater I’ve designed this to fit oversized wtih lots of positive ease to keep the feel of wearing someone else’s sweater. The original sweater was hand knit, and as I worked on this project I couldn’t help thinking about the original knitter and the sweater’s previous owner and wondering what happened to them after the trade.

This is a traditional Aran sweater knit in four pieces with raglan shaping. The collar is worked in the round once the sweater is assembled. Row by row directions are included for all charts used in the pattern. Since the sizing is generous this design would also work well for your favorite guy.