Knit What Fits: Small Adjustments That Make a Big Difference

Have you ever knit a garment and felt like it just didn’t sit quite right? Maybe the shoulders were too wide, or the neckline a bit too tight. It’s not you — it’s the pattern that might need a little knitting modification.

Many of us begin our knitting journey by following instructions word for word. But eventually, we discover a quiet truth: you can change things. In fact, you should change things, if it means your project will feel better on your body and in your life.

This post is all about knitting modification — and how small decisions can take a piece from “just another sweater” to a wardrobe favorite.

Knitting That Feels Like Home

In this month’s podcast episode, I’m sharing five projects that are each, in their own way, about knitting pattern changes, personal fit, and the freedom we have to shape our garments to suit our real bodies, our style, and our lives.

From my most worn sweater this August (Love Note) to a deeply personal project (Isabella Sweater), the message is clear: patterns are suggestions, not rules.

Most Worn Knit: Love Note

The Love Note sweater by Tin Can Knits is more than just pretty — it’s inclusive, airy, and full of possibility. I used Mondim Rust with La Bien Aimée Mohair in Undergrowth, which together create a deep, forest-like glow.

With its romantic yoke and modern hemline, it pairs perfectly with jeans or skirts. But what makes it truly special is how the yarn choice customization gives it depth — and how the pattern embraces size inclusivity right from the start.

Tip: Don’t be afraid of unexpected color combinations. The best pairings are often the ones that surprise you.

Finished Object: Venilia Tee

This project reminded me just how impactful small knitwear modifications can be. I changed the neckline, added short rows, and swapped out the ribbing for a clean, double-knit edge.

Those changes didn’t just improve the fit — they made it mine.

Tip: If you have narrower shoulders or yokes that tend to droop, try adding short rows after the lace section for a better knitting fit.

Work in Progress: Slanting Slipover

This project made me pause and reflect on the importance of size inclusivity. The pattern maxes out at a 112 cm bust — which simply isn’t enough in 2025. Not everyone can or should have to modify patterns for their body.

While I’ve made adjustments (and will share them later), I’m also committing to supporting designers who lead with inclusivity.

Tip: To customize a vest for a broader knitting fit, try adding stitches at the sides and use buttons instead of seams — it adds both ease and interest.

Personal Design: Isabella Sweater

This one’s the most personal of all. I built it from spreadsheets full of notes on how to alter knitting patterns for my shape. I used a raglan adjustment that doesn’t follow the usual “every other row” rule — because bodies aren’t formulas.

I knit the neckline flat for a more flattering front and back shape, and the yarn (Helix from La Bien Aimée) gave just the right amount of structure and drape.

Everyday Details: Diona Tee

Diona Tee – simple, yet refined

The Diona Tee has quickly become one of my favorite projects on the needles. The cable motif running down the front and back adds just the right amount of texture, while the 2x2 rib on the sides balances it beautifully. It feels elegant without being overdone.

I'm knitting it in a silk-blend base from The Wool Kitchen — a soft blue yarn with coppery speckles that catch the light in the most lovely way. It really brings the cables to life.

This is a slow, focused knit — but that makes each bit of progress especially satisfying. I’m following the pattern exactly this time, but I can already see plenty of room for modifications in the future, like a deeper neckline or longer sleeves.

Tip: When working with cables, small daily progress helps maintain rhythm and avoids mistakes in chart-heavy patterns.

What It’s All About

Knitting isn’t just about making — it’s about shaping. When you question a yoke, change a hemline, or support inclusive designers, you’re not just knitting. You’re creating a craft that reflects you.

This sweater works effortlessly for both work and casual days, and the textured stitch pattern adds just the right amount of detail. I made a few small modifications to get the perfect fit—adjusting the length and neckline slightly.That’s what I love most about knitting: the ability to create something that truly fits me.

That’s where the magic happens!

And if you’re curious about how to adapt a piece like this to better suit your body or preferences, I’ll be sharing a more detailed video soon with my personal approach to modifying patterns — so stay tuned!

Conclusion: Your Knitting, Your Rules

Whether it’s modifying a raglan adjustment, rethinking neckline construction, or advocating for size inclusivity, it all comes down to one thing: owning your process.

Knitting shouldn’t just follow rules — it should reflect your body, life, and joy. So next time you pick up a new project, ask yourself: What would make this feel like mine?

This post was all about knitting modification. Have you made changes to your own projects? Share in the comments — I’d love to hear how you make your knitting feel like home.