Vegvísir Sweater, designed by Rakel from Knitter from Iceland, is a classic Icelandic sweater worked from the bottom up in the round. Featuring the symbolic Vegvísir motif on the yoke, this design blends tradition and style. It is knitted in Saga Wool from Icewear Garn (50 g = 100 m), or alternatively in Istex Léttlopi. The gauge of 18 stitches x 26 rows per 10 cm. Available in sizes XXS to 5XL, the pattern provides instructions for a slim fit with shorter body length, though sizing up is recommended for a looser fit. This design is an ideal project for knitters seeking authentic Icelandic style.
Vegvísir Sweater is a timeless Icelandic sweater designed by Rakel from Knitter from Iceland. Inspired by traditional Icelandic knitting heritage, this design features the mystical Vegvísir symbol integrated into the yoke, giving the sweater a unique cultural depth. The sweater is knitted from the bottom up, with both body and sleeves worked in the round before being joined for the striking colorwork yoke. This construction ensures a seamless finish and a comfortable fit.
The design is made with Saga Wool from Icewear Garn, a yarn with 100 meters per 50 g skein, which equals a yardage of 200 meters per 100 g. Alternatively, Istex Léttlopi can also be used with excellent results. The required yarn amounts vary by size, but for the main colour (White 1000), between 6 and 14 skeins are needed, and for the contrasting shade (Autumn Leaf 9059), 2 skeins are required for all sizes.
Knitting needles in sizes 4 mm and 5 mm are used, both circular and double-pointed, depending on the section of the sweater. The recommended gauge is 18 stitches and 26 rows per 10 x 10 cm on 5 mm needles. Since the pattern is knitted in the round, it is recommended to knit the swatch in the round as well for accurate results.
The sweater is available in a wide size range from XXS to 5XL, with body widths ranging from 73 cm to 144 cm and sleeve lengths from 42 cm to 52 cm. The fit is slim with a shorter body length, though knitters who prefer a looser style may size up. The neckline is finished with a ribbed collar worked on 4 mm needles, giving the garment a polished look.
With its rich tradition, cultural symbolism, and practical warmth, the Vegvísir Lopapeysa is not just a knitting project but a meaningful piece of Icelandic heritage. Whether knitted in the recommended Saga Wool or the well-known Léttlopi, the result will be a durable and beautiful sweater, perfect for everyday wear in cold climates.
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.
