Blue Sky Fibers Knee High Knickers Knitting Pattern

Blue Sky Fibers Knee High Knickers Toddler Knitting Pattern

What Is Being Made

The Knee High Knickers is a toddler pull-on pant design from the Tiny Tots Collection, created by designer Bobbi Intveld. This pattern (No. 201620) is sized for children 18 months through 4 years old, offering finished waist measurements ranging from 21¼ inches (18 months) to 23½ inches (4T), with corresponding lengths from 12 to 15 inches. The design features a comfortable, drawstring waist closure that prevents the pants from slipping down during active toddler play, and rolled leg bottoms that create a finished edge without binding.

Techniques and Construction Methods

These knee-high knickers are knit top down using the round, which is an efficient construction method for seamless garments. The pattern employs stockinette stripes in two colors, creating visual interest while maintaining the soft, smooth texture characteristic of stockinette stitch. The top-down approach allows for easy customization of length and provides a natural stopping point for the leg openings. The rolled leg bottoms are an intentional design feature that provides a polished finish without the need for ribbing or binding, contributing to the comfortable, relaxed fit suitable for active toddlers.

Stitches Used

This pattern utilizes fundamental knitting stitches appropriate for an Advanced Beginner skill level. Core stitches include:

• Knit (k) – the primary stitch for stockinette construction
• Purl (p) – used when working flat sections or for pattern variation
• Knit two together (k2tog) – a right-leaning decrease
• Purl two together (p2tog) – a decrease worked in purl
• Slip, slip, knit (ssk) – a left-leaning decrease created by slipping two stitches knitwise, then knitting them together through the back loops
• Yarn over (yo) – creates openings, likely used for the drawstring eyelets at the waist
• Stockinette stitch (St St) – the primary fabric, created by knitting all stitches when working in the round

Materials and Yarn Requirements

The pattern is thoughtfully designed for use with Spud & Chloë Fine yarn, a premium blend of 80% wool and 20% silk in a sock-weight classification. This fiber composition provides softness, durability, and a subtle sheen ideal for children's garments. Yardage requirements are modest and size-dependent: 1 hank each of color A and color B are needed for all sizes (18 months through 4T), with each hank containing 65 grams and 248 yards. This generous yardage ensures sufficient material for the two-color striped design while remaining economical.

Tools and Equipment

Construction requires Size 3 (3.25mm) circular needles in 16-inch length, or the size needed to achieve the specified gauge. Additional tools include Size 3 double-pointed needles (or smaller needles as needed) for working the leg openings, a tapestry needle for finishing, stitch markers to track pattern repeats and construction points, and waste yarn or a stitch holder for securing stitches during construction.

Gauge

The pattern specifies a gauge of 28 stitches and 35 rows over 4 inches in stockinette stitch. Achieving this gauge is essential for proper fit, as the finished measurements depend on consistent stitch and row gauge. Knitters should swatch before beginning to ensure their tension matches the pattern requirements.

Pattern Features and Design Elements

The Knee High Knickers incorporate several thoughtful design features for toddler comfort and practicality. The drawstring waist provides adjustable closure and security without elastic, reducing pressure on the child's abdomen. The rolled leg bottoms create a casual, finished appearance while eliminating the need for ribbed cuffs, which can feel restrictive. The two-color stockinette stripe pattern adds visual appeal while remaining simple enough for Advanced Beginner knitters to execute successfully. Video tutorials are available on the Blue Sky Fibers website to support knitters working through the pattern.