The Keilir Lopapeysa, designed by Rakel – Lopamunstur.is, is a modern Icelandic sweater with a slim fit and striking yoke. Knitted in the round from the bottom up, it uses Ístex Álafosslopi wool, a warm and durable Icelandic yarn. Recommended needles are 6 mm and 7 mm, with a gauge of 13 sts x 18 rows = 10 cm. The sweater features three colors: Burnt Orange, Black Heather, and White, with yarn amounts depending on size (XXS–5XL). Sizes range from 83 cm body width (XXS) to 141.5 cm (5XL). The pattern combines traditional Icelandic motifs with a contemporary fit, making it perfect for everyday wear.
The Keilir Lopapeysa is a stunning Icelandic sweater designed by Rakel – Lopamunstur.is. This pattern captures the essence of traditional Icelandic knitwear with modern details, offering a slim fit and slightly shorter body length. The sweater is knitted seamlessly from the bottom up, with both body and sleeves worked in the round before being joined together for the striking colorwork yoke.
The design uses the classic Icelandic yarn Ístex Álafosslopi, a warm and durable wool perfect for outerwear. Each 100 g skein has a yardage of 100 m, giving a running length of 50 m per 50 g. The recommended needle sizes are 6 mm and 7 mm circular needles (40 and 60/80 cm, depending on size) and matching double-pointed needles. The knitting tension is 13 sts and 18 rows = 10 x 10 cm on 7 mm needles, worked in the round.
For this sweater, three colors of Álafosslopi are used:
Colour A: Burnt Orange (1236)
Colour B: Black Heather (0005)
Colour C: White (0051)
The required yarn amounts vary by size, ranging from XXS to 5XL. For example, size M requires 5 skeins of colour A, 2 skeins of colour B, and 1 skein of colour C, while size 5XL requires 8 skeins of colour A, 4 skeins of colour B, and 1 skein of colour C.
The available sizes span from XXS to 5XL, ensuring a fit for many body types. Measurements include body width from 83 cm (XXS) up to 141.5 cm (5XL), sleeve lengths from 42 cm to 52 cm, and body lengths from 30 cm to 46 cm. Since the sweater has a slim fit, knitters preferring a looser fit may want to size up.
The Keilir sweater is an excellent project for intermediate knitters familiar with stranded knitting. Its beautiful yoke showcases traditional Icelandic motifs, making it both eye-catching and timeless. The neckline is finished with a ribbed collar worked in 1x1 rib, which can either be left as a 7 cm rib or folded double for extra warmth.
Care instructions include handwashing at 30°C and drying flat. The durable Icelandic wool ensures longevity and warmth, making this sweater ideal for cold climates and outdoor wear.
With its modern silhouette, traditional design, and high-quality Icelandic yarn, the Keilir Lopapeysa is the perfect balance of heritage and style. A truly iconic piece for any knitter who appreciates authentic Icelandic craftsmanship.
I learned to knit at age 6 and fell in love right away. Over the years I’ve mostly focused on traditional Icelandic Wool sweaters (lopapeysa). After a burnout in 2023, knitting became my therapy. I couldn't decide which patterns to knit, so I decided to try and make my own. The process made me feel alive again, and that’s why I haven't stopped since. My inspiration comes from colors, nature, and even music or memories.
