Stilla is an Icelandic lopapeysa designed by Rakel / Lopamunstur.is. This bottom-up sweater is worked in Ístex Léttlopi (100 m per 50 g) or Icewear Alpaca wool. Knitted on 4 mm and 5 mm circular and double-pointed needles, it has a gauge of 18 sts x 26 rows = 10 cm. The main color (black 0059) requires 6–12 skeins depending on size, with one skein each in white (0051) and grey (0057) for the yoke pattern. Available in sizes XXS–5XL, the sweater measures 71–140 cm in body width. Featuring a slim fit, shorter body, and striking three-color yoke, Stilla combines traditional Icelandic heritage with a modern silhouette.
Stilla is a classic Icelandic sweater designed by Rakel from Lopamunstur.is (Knitter from Iceland). This sweater is worked seamlessly from the bottom up, with both body and sleeves knitted in the round before being joined together for the striking colorwork yoke. The design has a slim fit and slightly shorter body length, but it can easily be adjusted for a looser fit if preferred.
The pattern is worked in Ístex Léttlopi, a traditional Icelandic wool yarn (100 m per 50 g skein), though the designer also mentions Icewear Alpaca wool as an alternative. Léttlopi gives warmth, durability, and the rustic charm that makes Icelandic sweaters so unique. Yarn requirements vary depending on size, ranging from XXS to 5XL:
Main color (A – black 0059): 6–12 skeins
Contrast color B (white 0051): 1 skein in all sizes
Contrast color C (grey 0057): 1 skein in all sizes.
The sweater is knitted using circular needles 4 mm and 5 mm (40–80 cm, depending on size) and matching double-pointed needles for sleeves and ribbing.
The gauge is 18 stitches and 26 rows = 10 x 10 cm on 5 mm needles in stockinette stitch, knitted in the round. With a yardage of 100 m / 50 g = 200 m per 100 g, Léttlopi ensures a fabric that is lightweight yet insulating – perfect for everyday wear.
Construction begins with a ribbed hem, followed by the body in stockinette. The sleeves are shaped with regular increases before all pieces are joined for the yoke. The colorwork chart features three shades, creating a timeless Icelandic look. The neckline is finished with a 7 cm rib, which may be folded and sewn down for a cozy fit.
Sizes range from XXS (71 cm body width) up to 5XL (140 cm body width), with sleeve lengths between 42–52 cm. This makes Stilla highly versatile and suitable for many body types.
Finishing includes gentle soaking in lukewarm water with a touch of conditioner, rolling in a towel, and laying flat to dry. This helps the fibers bloom and the stitches settle beautifully.
Stilla is the ideal project for knitters who love authentic Icelandic design with a modern, flattering fit. A warm, durable, and stylish sweater that will become a wardrobe favorite.
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.
