The Zipper Sweater Light – Man is that perfect mix of classic and practical — warm, structured, and just the right amount of stylish. It’s worked top-down, starting with a ribbed collar that’s folded double for comfort before continuing into the yoke and body.
You’ll knit back and forth first to create the front opening, then join to work in the round once the neckline is shaped. The zipper is sewn in at the end — between two layers of knitted facing — so it looks neat and finished from both sides. The result? A timeless, clean-lined sweater that’s as satisfying to make as it is to wear.
The pattern is written for a DK (8ply) pure wool, which gives the sweater its warmth, durability, and crisp stitch definition. You want a yarn that holds its shape, feels solid but soft, and gives that slightly structured look that makes the neckline sit beautifully.
We recommend choosing a yarn that matches the gauge of 20 stitches over 10 cm on 4 mm needles — ideal for lightweight men’s sweaters and outer layers.
For this pattern, we recommend trying:
Heirloom Merino Magic 8ply – a smooth, classic merino that gives beautiful definition and a polished finish.
Countrywide Pure Wool 8ply – for a slightly more rustic, traditional feel with warmth and structure.
Or, if you prefer a softer, slightly loftier fabric, a merino-alpaca blend from our 8ply range also works beautifully.
Pop in or message us — we’ll help you match your yarn perfectly to the gauge and feel you’re after (and find a zipper colour that complements your shade).
Designed for around 20 cm (7¾ in) of positive ease
Worked top-down in stockinette stitch with raglan shaping
Gauge: 20 sts × 28 rows = 10 × 10 cm on 4 mm needles
Difficulty: ★★★★☆ (Intermediate to advanced)
Sizes: XS–4XL
Suggested yarn weight: DK / 8ply wool or wool blend
Finishing: Folded collar, zip closure, rib trims
This pattern has that perfect “handmade but refined” look — the kind of knit that feels at home both outdoors and in town. It’s a great project for confident knitters looking to tackle a garment with a bit of technical interest (that zipper is easier than it looks, we promise!).
If you’d like help finding the right yarn or getting the zipper sewn neatly, come in and chat — we can guide you through both.
We ship same day Mon-Fri for all orders recieved before 2:30pm. Our shippig guidlines for the different areas of NZ can be found here