Norwegian Sweater Patterns & Styles
Setesdal — the classic black-and-white lusekofte pattern from the Setesdal valley in southern Norway. Traditionally worn for weddings and formal occasions; now produced in modern colors while keeping the historic geometry. Our Northern Story Setesdal cardigans come in royal blue, light blue, red, charcoal, and black.
Voss — a regional Norwegian cardigan style, produced by Norlender.
Narvik Ski Sweater — Norlender's classic ski pullover with cross-and-star motif. Built for actual skiing.
Northern Lights / Norwegian Star — windproof wool jackets by Nordlys featuring star or aurora patterns. The windproof shell makes them useful in wet and coastal conditions.
Merino crew & zip — everyday merino sweaters. Softer and lighter than Norwegian wool, better for indoor-to-outdoor wear.
The Makers
Norlender Knitwear — Hosanger, Osterøy island (near Bergen), Norway. Founded 1927 by Ola Tveiten. Four generations family-run. One of the few remaining Norwegian textile factories producing garments from Norwegian wool spun in Norway.
Arctic Circle — Norwegian luxury merino sweater maker. Combed worsted yarn from only the longest wool fibers.
Northern Story — Norwegian cardigan line specializing in the Setesdal pattern in modern colorways.
Nordlys — Norwegian maker of windproof wool jackets in the Northern Lights and Classic Norwegian Star patterns.
Gjestal — Norwegian worsted-wool windbreaker producer.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's a Setesdal cardigan?
A Setesdal is a lusekofte-pattern cardigan originating in the Setesdal valley of southern Norway. The pattern is traditional folk dress; our cardigans render it in modern colors and fits.
How do I wash a Norwegian wool sweater?
Spot-clean when possible. For deeper cleaning, hand-wash cold with wool detergent and lay flat to dry. Don't machine-wash or tumble-dry. Wool often only needs airing between wears.
What's the difference between a sweater and a windbreaker here?
Sweaters are knit wool. Windbreakers (Gjestal, Nordlys) are knit wool with an inner windproof or water-resistant shell — better in wind and damp weather.
What kind of wool do these sweaters use?
Mostly merino wool (fine, worsted, softer) and traditional Norwegian wool (denser, warmer, more weather-resistant). Product pages specify wool type and percentage.