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Close-up of a machine-knitted European shoulder showing the distinctive angled seam placement

European Shoulders: A Sophisticated Designer Detail for Machine Knitters

European shoulders add a sophisticated designer touch. What they are, who they’re for, and how to knit them on your machine.

garment style shoulder seams

Small changes make a big impact in sweater design. European shoulders bring elegance, structure, and a professional look that sets your knits apart. In this post, we’ll explain what European shoulders are, who they’re for, and how you can knit this detail on your machine.

What are European shoulders?

European shoulder construction details
Construction view: how shoulder shaping changes the upper body line.

A European shoulder intentionally shapes the shoulder line for a clean transition into the neckline and sleeve head. It’s a subtle construction choice that reads “designer” and gives your sweater a polished, ready-to-wear look.


European sweater


Is this right for your next sweater?

  • Not a beginner project: Comfort with sweater construction is essential.
  • Pattern or DIY: Use the Knit It Now Maria pattern, or chart your own if you have charting skills.
  • Designer detail: Elevates even simple sweaters with a refined finish.
  • Skill-building challenge: Expect precise shaping and confident finishing.
    • Example of sweater with European shoulders
    The Maria dynamic pattern includes set-in sleeves and European shoulder shaping.

    Techniques you’ll use

    Techniques for shaping shoulders
    Shoulder shaping often uses double or triple decreases placed precisely.

    Review these before you cast on:

    • Double and triple decreases for shoulder shaping.
    • Row-by-row planning or charting to place shaping exactly where it belongs.
    • Careful finishing at the shoulder join for a crisp, professional line.

    Try it with a proven pattern

    Prefer to chart your own? Excellent! If you want a head start:

    Knit it Now patterns:

    • Marco: Men's cardigan with set-in sleeves and European shoulder
    • Maria: Misses cardigan or pullover with set in sleeves and European shoulder
    • Tessa: Misses cardigan or pullover with SQUARE armholes and European shoulder

    Maria pattern illustration
    Use a dynamic pattern to practice technique without having to chart it youself and do the math.

    FAQ

    Can I knit European shoulders on my machine?

    Yes. Most home machines can work this construction. Accurate charting and confident shaping are the keys.

    Is this beginner friendly?

    No. Plan on having a solid grasp of sweater construction before attempting it.

    Do I need a specific pattern?

    You can chart your own or use a ready-to-knit option like the Maria dynamic pattern.

    What techniques should I review first?

    Start with the Tutorial: Double and Triple Decreases , then plan your rows and finishing.
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    2 COMMENTS
    Sue J
     May 1, 2022
    Yes this could be used for other style of armholes. We currently don't have Dynamic Patterns for all styles, just the most common, set in sleeve style. Use one of our Magic Formula tools to chart. Just be sure to add the little "wings" so the shoulder seams match. https://www.knititnow.com/tools/magicformulabyrow.cfm

    Micki L
     May 1, 2022
    Intriguing and very attractive. Would this work with drop shoulder sweaters or modified dropped shoulders?

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