The Wings Sweater
The Wings Sweater is one of my most recognizable crochet fashion patterns and ironically, it almost never existed. What began as an experiment combining oversized knit cables with crochet construction quickly became one of my most requested sweater patterns. This design diary shares the unexpected story behind the Wings Sweater, how embracing imperfection transformed the design, and why it remains one of my favorite crochet fashion pieces today.
I must admit that the Wings Sweater design was an accident.
I barely know how to knit and decided to try making a sweater with large cables. I thought the cables could lay horizontally across the body like big braids. I made the first two cables which were intended for the sleeves, and realized that they were much too big to have more of them.
I decided to crochet a quick border around the large cables to even out the slopes and connected them at the top and bottom leaving enough room for an off-the-shoulder look. I was using very chunky yarn and the ends were hanging off the sides of the sleeves like rugged tassels. I crocheted a few more rows at the bottom to finish the body and tried it on.
I put the sweater on and all I could think about was how different the design was looking from what I had in mind.
I was hanging out with my family that night and decided to show them my failed attempt. When I came into the family room, the reaction I received was unexpected. They loved the sweater! It took them a while to convince me not to unravel it. I decided to keep it and said that I was going to refine the sleeves but my mother protested so strongly that I leave it the way it was loose ends and all. She convinced me that it looked high fashion and very artistic. I decided to add more tassels because you can’t half-heartedly do tassels.
The more I let go of what my expectations were, the more I started to love the sweater I had made.
As usual, I had no idea how my design would be received but I had nothing to lose and decided to have my dear friend Kofi Dodi photograph it. I was surprised yet again by the response. I immediately had orders for the sweater and had many requests for a pattern.
I tested the sweater with a small team and released the pattern. It was a new experience to write a half-knit pattern when I barely understood the craft. Eventually, I had the pattern graded and edited by no other than Melissa Metz-bower and it is always a joy to see makers wearing it.
f you've ever had a project that turned out completely different than you expected, you'll probably relate to the story behind the Wings Sweater. Sometimes our best designs happen when we stop trying to force perfection and allow creativity to take the lead.
If you'd like to make your own version, the Wings Sweater Crochet Pattern includes the crochet finishing, oversized knit cables, assembly instructions, sizing information, and helpful photos so you can customize the design to fit your own style.
“Those who have no imagination have no wings”- Muhammad Ali
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Wings Sweater beginner friendly?
The Wings Sweater is best suited for intermediate makers because it combines knitting and crochet techniques with garment assembly.
Is the Wings Sweater crochet or knit?
The design is a hybrid pattern featuring oversized knitted cable panels connected with crochet edging, creating a unique handmade sweater unlike traditional crochet garments.
Can I customize the Wings Sweater?
Yes. The cropped silhouette, sleeve fringe, and sizing can all be customized, making it easy to create a sweater that reflects your personal style.