Updated August 4, 2023.
Although sweaters with designs on them go in and out of fashion, tops with big bold animal designs are having a fashion moment.
There are many ways to get these designs on your clothing, but one of the easiest is to needlepoint onto already knitted garments using Duplicate Stitch.
The stitch is called that because it “duplicates” the look of plain knitting (stockingette). In needlepoint terms, that makes it alternating columns of Tent and Reverse Tent.
To put your design onto the sweater, you’ll need a sweater knitted in stockingette (no textured stitches in this area). You will also need a charted design, yarn in the colors you need that match the sweater in weight and washability, and very large (#13-#18) tapestry needles.
If you have difficulty finding large tapestry needles look in knitting shops where they are used to sew sweaters together, or in craft shops with the plastic canvas.
Once you have all the items together, learn how to make duplicate stitch with this post from Jessica Joy.
If you feel uncomfortable trying something large, why not stitch a monogram or small logo?
Thanks to the CRAFT blog for pointing this out!
About Janet M Perry
Janet Perry is the Internet's leading authority on needlepoint. She designs, teaches and writes, getting raves from her fans for her innovative techniques, extensive knowledge and generous teaching style. A leading writer of stitch guides, she blogs here and lives on an island in the northeast corner of the SF Bay with her family
Hi, I’ve done duplicate stitching in the past and want to do some more. Where can I find the classic cotton sweaters and sweater vests that are ideal for duplicate stitching? I’ve done some searching, but I’m not finding an adequate source. I’ve looked at LL Bean and Land’s End, but nothing seems to be showing up. Thank you for your help!
These things like most other clothes go in and out of fashion. I do still see them on Land’s End but only in spring and summer.
I find cotton sweaters in flat knits pretty easily on eBay though all through the year.
Keep stitching,
Janet
OK, great! Thank you!