Baker Jumper Knitting Pattern

Baker Knitted Sweater by Lisa Richardson

What is Being Made

The Baker is a knitted sweater designed by Lisa Richardson and published by Rowan. This garment is a pullover-style jumper available in eight sizes, ranging from 81-86 cm to 152-157 cm chest measurements. The sweater features a classic construction with shaped armholes, shoulder shaping, and a finished back neck. The design is suitable for intermediate-level knitters seeking a structured, well-fitted garment.

Techniques Used

The Baker employs several fundamental knitting techniques appropriate for intermediate crafters. The pattern incorporates armhole shaping using decreases worked at regular intervals—both on consecutive rows and alternating rows—to create a fitted sleeve cap. Shoulder shaping is achieved through strategic cast-offs and decreases that gradually reduce stitch counts. The pattern also demonstrates back neck shaping, where stitches are placed on holders and worked separately to create neck depth and definition. Decreases are primarily executed using patt2tog (pattern two together), a standard decrease method that maintains stitch continuity within the pattern.

Stitches Used

The primary stitch pattern used throughout the Baker is double moss stitch, a textured, reversible stitch that creates visual interest and fabric stability. Double moss stitch is formed by alternating knit and purl stitches in a specific sequence across rows, producing a bumpy, dimensional fabric surface. This stitch is worked consistently across the body pieces and is the foundation for the garment's finished appearance and drape.

Materials

The Baker is designed to be knitted using Rowan Alpaca Soft DK yarn, a lightweight double-knitting weight fiber. Yarn requirements vary by size, ranging from 5 balls (50 grams each) for the smallest size to 8 balls for the largest sizes. The photographed sample is worked in Charcoal 211, a neutral colorway that showcases the texture of the double moss stitch. Two needle sizes are required: 3.25mm (US 3) needles for the initial cast-on and ribbing, and 4mm (US 6) needles for the main body, worked at a tension of 24 stitches and 34 rows over 10 centimeters in double moss stitch. Additional notions include stitch holders and stitch markers to manage stitches during shaping and construction.

Pattern Structure

The pattern is organized by size, with all eight sizes presented in bracketed sequences throughout the instructions. The back piece begins with a cast-on of 98 to 174 stitches depending on size, and the pattern progresses through armhole decreases, shoulder shaping, and back neck placement before moving to front and sleeve sections. The comprehensive sizing ensures that knitters of various proportions can achieve a well-fitted garment.