Debbie Bliss Moss St Tunic Knitting Pattern

Debbie Bliss Moss St Tunic

What is Being Made

The Moss St Tunic is a children's knitted sweater designed to fit ages 1-2, 3-4, 5-6, and 7-8 years. This tunic-style garment features a relaxed fit with finished chest measurements ranging from 65cm (25¾in) for the smallest size to 83cm (32¾in) for the largest size. The length to shoulder varies from 40cm (15¾in) for the youngest age group to 55cm (21¾in) for the oldest, making it a versatile layering piece for young children. Sleeve length with cuff turned back ranges from 22cm (8¾in) to 37cm (14¾in) depending on size.

Techniques Used

This pattern employs seamed construction and is worked flat, making it an ideal beginner-friendly project. The tunic is knitted in separate pieces—front, back, and sleeves—which are then seamed together. The flat working method means pieces are created on straight needles rather than in the round, allowing for straightforward shaping and finishing. The pattern includes front neck shaping achieved through decreases worked at regular intervals, and shoulder shaping using cast-off stitches to create structured armholes and neckline.

Stitches Used

The primary stitch throughout the Moss St Tunic is moss stitch, a textured fabric created by alternating knit and purl stitches in a specific sequence. Moss stitch produces a dense, slightly bumpy texture that is both visually interesting and durable for children's garments. The pattern also incorporates knit two together (k2tog) decreases for shaping the front neckline, and cast-off stitches for shoulder shaping. These fundamental stitches keep the project accessible for knitters developing their skills.

Materials

The Moss St Tunic is designed to be worked in Debbie Bliss Cotton DK yarn in the colorway Duck Egg 09. Yardage requirements vary by size: 9 balls for the 1-2 year size, 10 balls for the 3-4 year size, 11 balls for the 5-6 year size, and 13 balls for the 7-8 year size, with each ball weighing 50g. Two pairs of knitting needles are required: 3.75mm (US 5) needles and 4mm (US 6) needles. The 4mm needles are used for the main fabric and should be sized to achieve the specified tension of 20 stitches and 32 rows to a 10cm (4in) square over moss stitch. The 3.75mm needles are used for ribbed cuffs or edgings. The cotton yarn choice makes this tunic suitable for warmer weather wear and easy care for children's clothing.