3 Chunky sweaters that will make you feel delicately fragile.
I’ve been thinking about projects that are not only easy for beginners but also quick to knit - just the thing if you’re looking to surprise someone special with a cozy sweater or cardigan.
In today’s Esenote, I’ve selected a few sweaters made with chunky yarns that knit up quickly but still have that effortless charm we all love.
These pieces highlight the beauty of thicker yarns without adding extra bulk, keeping them warm yet beautifully delicate - perfect as a cozy, stylish gift (or maybe a little treat for yourself)!
And, to keep things easy and enjoyable, I’ve put together a set of 5 chunky cardigan patterns to share in the next Esenote, so stay tuned!
📕 1. Strathcona Sweater by Tara-Lynn Morrison
This one’s a classic! The Strathcona Sweater has that perfect balance of simplicity and style - it’s a beginner favorite, and for good reason. If you take a look at the projects on Ravelry, you’ll find so many inspiring photos showing how well it suits all sorts of body types and ages. Plus, the variety of yarn choices people use is truly creative and unique.
It’s a top-down raglan with a seamless design and a cozy ribbed mock neck, ideal if you prefer a sweater that keeps you warm without needing extra layers like scarves. The fit is relaxed but never bulky, so it has that comfy feel while still looking polished.
Plus, it’s a quick knit! You can have it done in just 3-7 days. For a cozy winter sweater, I’d suggest going for full-length sleeves to keep you extra warm. It’s a true winter essential - not one for those mild, in-between seasons. This is definitely one to snuggle into on frosty days!
📕 2. Tenzen Sweater by Woolfolk Design Team
If you’re more into drop-shoulder styles than raglan, the Tenzen Sweater is a gem! I especially love the mock neck on this one - it starts wide and narrows just near the face, which gives it such a graceful, flattering shape.
It’s designed with a minimalist look, so it’s one of those pieces you can throw on for almost any occasion and feel effortlessly put-together.
The construction is a little different, but in a good way: you’ll start with the upper back, working it back and forth, then pick up stitches for the front from the shoulder seams. Once the yoke is complete, you join it all together and knit in the round straight down to the hem.
If you’re looking for something with a relaxed, cozy vibe that’s still quick to knit, this sweater has you covered. The finished look is polished but casual - perfect for any winter wardrobe!
📕 3. Crisp Cranberry Sweater by DROPS Design
Free pattern is on Drops website.
The last sweater on today’s list is a cozy raglan design with a cozy mock neck. And don’t worry if a high neck isn’t your thing; you can always make it shorter. But honestly, the full neck really is perfect for those chilly days when you need a little extra protection from the cold.
The Crisp Cranberry has a unique raglan line with yarn overs which create small holes that adds just enough structure without being fussy. The subtle detail enhances the look in such an easy, stylish way. And the color they used for the sample - such a rich purple! It has this feminine, elegant vibe that makes the sweater feel a bit special.
🧶 This one’s made with Drops Snow yarn, which I absolutely loved working with. I used it for a sweater I found on Pinterest (turned out it was a Dior design from the ’90s!), and it’s such a soft, cozy yarn. It’s also perfect for accessories like headbands - I’ve knitted a few of those too!
If you haven’t tried this yarn yet, I’d definitely recommend it. It’s one of those versatile yarns that always feels nice to knit with.
When I knitted this sweater (in 2017), I was just working from a Pinterest photo - no pattern, just figuring it out as I went along.
🌎 What’s new in the Esenique Julia Piro world
When I first started as a knitwear designer, I went with the name "Esenique" (with a short version, ESNQ Knit). I was inspired by fashion brands that use cool abbreviations, like Mango (MNG) and Dolce & Gabbana (D&G). But over time, I realized that "Esenique" didn’t really hold much meaning for me - or anyone else, honestly! And, as it turned out, some people found it a bit tricky to pronounce.
So, I decided to simplify things and make it more personal by rebranding everything as "Julia Piro." My YouTube channel is now called "Knit with Julia Piro," and all my social media accounts on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest are now @juliapiroknits. It feels refreshing to share my work under my own name - no fancy abbreviations, just a genuine connection and creativity!
❤️ I hope this newsletter has inspired you to try something new. If you’re craving more chunky projects, feel free to explore my designs on Etsy!
Can’t wait to share 5 cozy, chunky cardigan patterns with you next week - see you then!
Warm regards,
Julia Piro
Knitwear Designer & Esenotes Curator