[pattern] Shield Maiden Pullover

Shield maidens were ferocious female Viking warriors that were vibrantly described in many Norse sagas.

Until recently, shield maidens were largely considered mythical; however, a 2017 DNA analysis confirmed that a body found buried along with several weapons and horses was in fact female.

I’ve always found inspiration in strong female figures. Shield Maiden is a circular yoke, fingering weight, 3⁄4 length sleeve sweater designed to feature a stitch based on the Norse rune that represents these exceptional women.

Yarn

Malabrigo Sock (100% superwash merino wool; 440 yds [402 m]/100 g): Color #1 Plomo (MC), 2 (2, 3, 3, 3, 3) skeins, Color #2 Cian (CC), 1 (1, 1, 1, 1, 1) skeins

Larger size yarn requirements

Color #1 Plomo (MC), 4 (4, 4) skeins, Color #2 Cian (CC), 1 (1, 1) skein

Needles

Size US 6 (4.0mm) needles, with circular cord at least 2”/10cm smaller than chosen bust size

Size US 4 (3.50mm) needles, with circular cord of 8″/20cm or dpns for preferred method of knitting smaller circumference in the round, and with a circular cord at least 2″/10 cm smaller than chosen bust size.

Or size needed to obtain gauge

Gauge

24 sts and 32 rows = 4″ [10cm] in Stockinette st after blocking

Sizes

1-6, with bust measurements 32 (36, 40, 44, 48, 52)

Notions

Tapestry needle, 2 stitch markers, stitch holders or scrap yarn, measuring tape