Select a pattern with simple lines--look for a basic neckline, few seams and a fairly flat sleeve cap.
Look for patterns that are designed for the stretch of the sweater knit. If a pattern is designed for woven fabric, you might want to purchase one size smaller for a better fit. Compare the pattern to a ready-made sweater with similar stretch.
Another option is to make a pattern from an existing sweater by tracing around the body and adding seam allowances.
Decide if the pattern side seams or center front and back seams are necessary to the style and remove if desired by overlapping the seam allowances on the pattern before cutting the garment. Because little fitting is required, shaped side seams also can be straightened.
Avoid patterns with darts and princess seaming.
Layout & Cutting
Cut the sweater with the greatest amount of stretch going around the body. Cut a single layer at a time and, to prevent distorting the knit, don't allow the fabric to hang over the table edge. Cut the garment pieces with at least a 3/8"seam allowance.
Lay out the body pieces first and then the sleeves, matching stripes or any crosswise design (2).
If using sweater panels with a finished ribbed edge, double-check the body and sleeve lengths. The lengths can't be changed after cutting. Place the pattern finished hem edge along the ribbing finished edge. Before cutting, stretch the ribbing, until the sweater knit lies flat; pin in place (3). After cutting, the ribbing will relax to its original shape. If it's impossible to match designs at the shoulder because of the finished ribbing edge, select a dropped-shoulder design so matching isn't necessary. Another option is to cut off the ribbing, cut the sleeve to match the design and resew the ribbing at the desired sleeve length.
If the fabric ravels easily after cutting, serge-finish the edges before constructing the garment. Note: Don't stretch the fabric when serging the edge.
