Classic Elite Yarns Frankie Jumper Knitting Pattern

Classic Elite Yarns Frankie Knit Sweater

What Is Being Made

Frankie is a simple ruffled knit top designed by Susan Mills, originally published in Fortuna 1603. This versatile garment is knit in two separate lengths that can be worn independently or layered together for a coordinated look. The design features a distinctive ruffled bottom edge that transitions into a fitted body with strategic shaping at the armholes and neckline.

Construction Method and Techniques

Frankie employs a bottom-up construction approach, beginning with the ruffled edge and working upward toward the neckline. The garment is worked in the round for the initial ruffle and body sections using circular needles, then transitions to working flat in rows for the front and back pieces after the armholes are divided. The finished pieces are seamed together to create the final garment. An optional neck finish using a 16-inch circular needle allows the two layers to be joined together at the neck edge for an integrated look.

Stitches and Shaping Details

The pattern utilizes fundamental knitting stitches to create its elegant silhouette. The ruffle begins with a purl round followed by stockinette stitch (St st) knitting, which creates the smooth, classic fabric. Strategic decreases shape the ruffle: the pattern uses knit two together (k2tog) decreases to reduce stitches from the initial cast-on of 468 to 504, 564, 624, or 684 stitches down to 156 to 228 stitches by the time the body begins.

The body continues in stockinette stitch until reaching the underarm, where bind-off stitches create the armhole openings. The front piece features progressive shaping with double decrease rows using slip, slip, knit (sssk) and knit three together (k3tog) techniques, followed by standard single decreases using slip, slip, knit (ssk) and knit two together (k2tog). These decreases are spaced strategically with rows of even stockinette stitch between them to create a gradual, flattering taper toward the shoulders and neckline.

Sizing and Finished Measurements

Frankie is available in five sizes: XS, S, M, L, and XL. The finished bust measurements range from 31¼ inches in the smallest size to 45½ inches in the largest size. The bottom layer length varies from 20¼ inches (XS) to 22¼ inches (XL), while the top layer length ranges from 17¼ inches (XS) to 19¼ inches (XL). The armhole depth increases with size, measuring approximately 3¼ to 4¾ inches depending on the chosen size.

Materials

This pattern is designed to be worked with yarn in multiple colors designated as A and additional yarn colors for the second layer. The project requires circular needles for working in the round during the ruffle and initial body sections, with a 16-inch circular needle recommended for the optional neck finish that joins the two layers. The pattern is suitable for intermediate-level knitters who are comfortable with various decrease techniques and transitioning between circular and flat knitting methods.

Pattern Format

Frankie is available as a downloadable PDF from Classic Elite Yarns, making it convenient for digital access and printing. The pattern includes detailed instructions for both layers of the garment, allowing crafters to customize their project by knitting one or both versions.