Today I was inspired by a customer who stopped into the shop wearing her beautiful Sunshine Coast sweater. Seeing this design knit up and worn so effortlessly reminded me just how timeless and wearable this pattern truly is. The elegant simplicity, flattering shape, and beautiful drape immediately caught my eye — and of course, it sparked a conversation about yarn possibilities!
Effortlessly elegant and endlessly wearable, Sunshine Coast by Heidi Kirrmaier is the kind of sweater you’ll reach for season after season. At first glance, this pullover has a beautifully simple silhouette, but look closer and you’ll discover thoughtful design details that make it truly special.
The gently flared A-line shape creates an easy, flattering fit on many body types, with just the right amount of ease — intended to fit with approximately ½–3 inches of positive ease at the bust. Lightweight yet substantial enough for layering, Sunshine Coast is the perfect transitional garment for changing seasons.
Pattern Details
- Designer: Heidi Kirrmaier
- Yarn Weight: DK
- Gauge: 20 stitches & 28 rows = 4” in stockinette stitch
- Needle Size: US 5 (3.75 mm)
- Yardage: Approximately 800–1500 yards
Our Suggested Yarns:
Rowan Handknit Cotton
Soft, breathable, and drapey, Handknit Cotton is a wonderful choice for warm-weather garments. This DK-weight, 4-ply yarn is spun from 100% combed cotton and offers a smooth matte finish in a stunning range of jewel tones and versatile neutrals.
Handknit Cotton
- 100% Combed Cotton
- Machine washable
- DK weight
- Ideal for summer tops, baby knits, and lightweight layering pieces
The crisp stitch definition and fluid drape pair beautifully with the clean lines of Sunshine Coast.
Harvest DK by Urth Yarns
For knitters looking for rich color and artisan character, Harvest DK is an exceptional option. Hand-dyed in Turkey using plant-based dyes, each skein reflects the subtle tonal variations found in nature, making every project truly unique.
Harvest DK by Urth Yarns
- 100% Superwash Merino
- DK weight
- Approximately 300 yards per skein
- Suggested needle size: US 5–7
Harvest DK brings softness, bounce, and depth of color to this timeless pullover design.
Choosing the Right Yarn Weight
Not sure which yarn weight is best for your next project? Here’s a quick guide:
- Fingering Weight: Approximately 27–32 stitches per 4” — perfect for accessories, lace, colorwork, and lightweight garments
- DK Weight: Approximately 20–24 stitches per 4” — ideal for pullovers, vests, layering garments, shawls, ribs, and brioche stitches
- Worsted Weight: Approximately 16–20 stitches per 4” — great for outerwear, hats, mitts, scarves, cables, and textured stitches
Sunshine Coast is designed for DK weight yarn, offering the perfect balance of structure, softness, and wearability.
Whether you choose the cool comfort of cotton or the luxurious softness of merino, Sunshine Coast is a satisfying knit that combines simplicity with refined detail — a modern wardrobe staple you’ll treasure for years to come. Thank you Lesley!!
