Pattern Spotlight: Oblique Sweaters
- violetloopscrochet
- Dec 19, 2025
- 3 min read
Tunisian Crochet • Knit
If you’re drawn to clean lines, bold colorplay, and garments that feel modern yet cozy, the Oblique Sweaters bring all of those elements together in a truly unique way. Available in both Tunisian crochet and knit, these sister designs were inspired by the striking angles of an oblique rectangular prism—a geometric form defined by diagonal planes, crisp edges, and strong directional movement.
Both sweaters celebrate that idea through diagonal colorblocking that flows across the body and sleeves, creating a wearable piece of fiber art you can customize with 4–6 of your favorite DK colorways. Whether you’re Team Tunisian or Team Knit (or both!), the Oblique Sweaters invite you to play with color, explore texture, and create something truly special.
The Design Inspiration: Geometry Meets Yarn
The heart of the Oblique design is the diagonal line—clean, sharp, and intentional. Instead of working straight across like most colorwork sweaters, the Oblique builds its shape and visual movement from an angled axis. This creates:
A flattering diagonal flow
Seamless transitions between colors
A modern, architectural look
Endless ways to express your color personality
Whether you lean toward muted tonals, vibrant variegated skeins, or a combination of both, the oblique angle transforms them into a stunning statement piece.
The Oblique Sweater (Tunisian Crochet)
The Tunisian version is where the entire concept began. Worked top-down, the fabric drapes beautifully in DK weight, creating a cozy but wearable sweater with structure and softness.
Why makers love it:
Completely seamless construction
Crisp diagonal lines created through shaping
Works with 4 to 6 colorways
A wonderful canvas for combining tonals and subtle variegated yarns
Eye-catching but relaxing once you fall into the rhythm
Beautiful drape thanks to Tunisian crochet’s flexibility
This version has that “just one more row” feeling—the diagonal line keeps moving, and watching your colors shift is addictive in the best way.
The Oblique Sweater (Knit Version)
The knit version mirrors the overall visual impact of the Tunisian design while embracing the strengths of knitted fabric. Worked top-down and then seamed, it produces an incredibly smooth surface that allows your diagonal transitions to shine.
Why makers love it:
Intarsia lets you control color placement with precision
Smooth stockinette fabric highlights every color shift
Great drape without heaviness
A beautiful introduction to multi-color knitting
Endless colorplay possibilities—variegated yarns sparkle in this version
If you’re knit-curious or you want a project that feels meditative but visually dramatic, this version is such a satisfying make.
Choosing Your Color Palette
Color is at the heart of the Oblique Sweater experience. The diagonal line acts like a visual anchor, letting you experiment with palettes you may not normally pair.
Try:
4 bold tonals for a clean, modern look
1 variegated + 3 tonals for movement without chaos
Gradient sets for a seamless fade
Jewel tones + neutrals for depth
Earthy naturals for a quiet, elevated palette
High-contrast pops for a graphic, contemporary feel
The pattern includes guidance for arranging your colorways, whether you want dramatic contrast or a soft painterly flow.
Size-Inclusive, Comfortable, and Customizable
Like all Violet Loops garments, the Oblique Sweaters were designed with size inclusivity and comfort at the forefront. Both the Tunisian and knit versions are written for a wide range of body sizes and shapes, offering a relaxed fit that feels good to wear while still showing off the clean diagonal line and color transitions.
Sizing Highlights:
Graded across a full, size-inclusive range (bust up to 62 in)
Construction is top-down to allow for customization of length from cropped to hip length
The width of the colorwork stripes are proportional for each of the nine sizes.
Sizes 6 - 9 include shoulder shaping so that the the shoulder seam hits at the same point as other sizes at not at the elbow.
Make Your Own
The Oblique Sweaters are more than just colorwork—they’re an exploration of shape, movement, and personal expression through yarn. Whether you choose the Tunisian version, the knit version, or decide to make both, you’ll end up with a garment that is modern, expressive, and one-of-a-kind.
If you make one, please tag @violet.loops — I would love to see your color combinations and your Oblique lines come to life.
