Juniper Moon Farm Cardigan Knitting Pattern

Juniper Moon Farm Monica Kid Sweater & Jacket

What Is Being Made

The Monica is a versatile kid sweater and jacket design from the Rainbow Summer Collection, created by designer Ursula McGrath. This pattern offers two distinct garment options—a classic pullover sweater and a button-front jacket—both designed for children aged 2–3 through 10–11 years. The sweater features a timeless silhouette with finished chest widths ranging from 22 to 30 inches (56 to 76 cm) to accommodate growing children, with corresponding length and sleeve adjustments across five size options.

Techniques Used

Monica is constructed using bottom-up knitting, meaning the garment is worked from the lower edge upward toward the shoulders and neckline. The design employs a seamed construction method, with individual pieces knitted flat and then sewn together for a polished, professional finish. Striping is incorporated throughout the design, creating visual interest and allowing for color blocking with the included yarn colors. All pieces are worked flat on straight needles rather than in the round, making this an accessible project for knitters who prefer traditional flat knitting techniques.

Stitches Used

The Monica pattern is primarily worked in stockinette stitch, the foundational knit fabric that creates a smooth, classic appearance ideal for children's garments. The pattern includes shaping techniques such as cast-off decreases at the armholes and shoulders to create proper garment structure, and single decreases at the neck edge to shape the neckline with a gradual, flattering curve. These shaping techniques are worked over multiple rows to achieve a refined fit.

Materials: Yarn & Needles

For the Sweater: The Monica sweater uses Juniper Moon Farm Cumulus Dappled yarn in two colors. Color A (Summer Sangria) requires 2, 2, 2, 3, or 3 x 100g skeins depending on size, while Color B (Pearl) requires 1, 1, 1, 2, or 2 x 100g skeins. For the Jacket: The jacket version calls for Juniper Moon Farm Cumulus Dappled in Color A (Berry Medley) at 2, 2, 3, 3, or 3 x 100g skeins and Color B (Pearl) at 1, 1, 1, 1, or 2 x 100g skeins, plus 5 or 6 buttons for closure depending on size.

Needles: The pattern requires two pairs of knitting needles—US 8 (5mm) needles and US 9 (5.5mm) needles—allowing for gauge control and potential ribbing or textured edgings. Gauge: The pattern is worked at 18 stitches and 25 rows per 4-inch (10 cm) square over stockinette stitch using the larger needles, ensuring consistent sizing across all five children's sizes.

Design Features

• Five size options spanning ages 2–3 to 10–11 years with proportional adjustments to width, length, and sleeve length
• Finished measurements from 24 to 31½ inches (61 to 80 cm) in width to accommodate various chest sizes
• Sleeve lengths ranging from 9 to 15 inches (23 to 38 cm) to grow with the child
• Neckband construction using held stitches for a neat, finished edge
• Shoulder shaping worked over multiple rows for a professional, tailored fit
• Armhole shaping with graduated cast-offs for proper sleeve cap depth
• Option to knit as a pullover sweater or button-front jacket for versatility

The Monica pattern combines practical children's sizing with elegant construction techniques, making it an excellent choice for knitters seeking a well-drafted, colorful garment that grows with the child.