Hi everyone! I'm knitting the PetiteKnit Stockholm Slipover V-neck and could really use some advice on how to proceed with a different gauge. I’m a fairly new knitter, so please excuse if there is information missing that is needed to give proper advice. English is not my first language so I got help with writing from AI, sorry if anything sound or looks clunky from that.
The pattern calls for 19 sts × 27 rows per 10 cm on 4.5 mm needles (after blocking). I'm using Isager Alpaca 2 held together with Isager Silk Mohair, and my gauge is 21 sts × 31 rows per 10 cm after blocking.
I tried 5 mm needles and managed to get the correct gauge, but I really didn't like the fabric. It looked too loose. I much prefer the fabric I get with 4.5 mm needles, so I decided to size up the garment instead.
My widest bust measurement is approximately 100 cm, but since my waist (75 cm) and upper bust is much smaller (92 cm) I prefer the fit of a M. I’ve previously knitted the regular Stockholm Slipover in size M (but added bust darts) and liked the fit.
Based on my stitch gauge, I used an app and calculated that knitting an XL should give me approximately the right circumference.
Here's my problem:
I've now finished the back panel in size XL. I have the correct stitch count (95 sts), but the panel measures only 24 cm from the cast-on edge, whereas the pattern says it should measure 26.5 cm for an XL and 25 cm for a M. Since I am aiming for the fit of a M this makes me somewhat nervous. I expected it to be shorter because of my row gauge, but I was hoping it would at least reach around 25 cm.
I've also compared it with the other Stockholm Slipover I've already finished, and the dimensions look fairly similar when laid on top - albeit the new one looks slightly smaller. However, my finished slipover has been blocked, whereas this new back panel hasn't.
What would you recommend doing?
Keep going with following the pattern for XL?
Knit a few extra rows without increases at the bottom of the back panel? I'm worried this might create an awkward straight section in the armhole curve.
Frog back to before the armhole increases and add some extra rows there?
Frog the increases and spread them out over more rows to get the desired depth while keeping the same stitch count?
I'm also aware that I'll need to account for any added rows on the front panels as well.
I’ve attached photos of the fit of my first slipover and with the new backpanel laid on top, with the top of the work lining up with where it is on the finished slipover.
I'd love to hear how more experienced knitters would approach this. I'm fairly new to knitting garments, so I'm not sure which adjustment would give the best fit and shape.
Thanks so much!