Ladies Round & High Neck Sweaters Jumper Knitting Pattern

Ladies Round and High Neck Sweaters in King Cole Homespun DK

What is Being Made

This knitting pattern provides instructions for creating two styles of ladies' sweaters: a round neck version and a high neck version. Both designs are available in five different sizes, ranging from 81 cm to 127 cm (32 to 50 inches) to accommodate various bust measurements. These are classic pullover sweaters suitable for everyday wear.

Craft and Technique Overview

This is an intermediate-level knitting project that requires understanding of fundamental knitting techniques combined with more advanced shaping methods. The sweaters are constructed using traditional flat knitting methods, with pieces worked separately and then assembled. Raglan shaping is employed to create the armholes and sleeve caps, which involves strategic decreasing to form the characteristic diagonal seams running from the underarm to the neckline.

Stitches Used

• 1x1 Ribbing: An alternating knit and purl stitch pattern used for the cuffs and waistband, creating an elastic, fitted edge that hugs the body
• Stocking Stitch: The primary fabric stitch throughout the body and sleeves, created by alternating knit rows on the right side with purl rows on the wrong side, producing a smooth, classic sweater texture
• Decreasing Stitches: Techniques including knit two together (k2tog) and purl two together (p2tog) are used extensively for raglan shaping and neckline finishing

Materials and Specifications

This pattern is designed for King Cole Homespun DK yarn, a double knit weight yarn. The recommended needle size is 4 mm for the main fabric, with 3¼ mm needles used for the ribbed sections to create a tighter, more elastic edge. The tension specification is 22 stitches and 28 rows to 10 cm (4 inches) over stocking stitch, which is essential to achieve the correct finished garment dimensions. Achieving proper tension is critical in this project—using thinner needles if you have too many stitches per 10 cm, or thicker needles if you have too few, ensures the sweater will fit as intended.

Construction Details

The pattern uses a multi-color approach, incorporating at least two yarn colors designated as A and D throughout the construction. The back piece is cast on using the thumb method and begins with ribbed edging before transitioning to stocking stitch. Raglan decreasing is worked systematically at specific intervals—some sizes feature decreases in every row, while others use alternating row decreases—to gradually reduce stitches and create the sloped raglan seams. Neckline shaping involves placing stitches on holders and working short rows or targeted decreases to form either the round neck or high neck option.

Pattern Features

• Five size options accommodating bust measurements from 32 to 50 inches
• Two distinct neckline styles: round neck and high neck variations
• Raglan sleeve construction for comfortable, flattering fit
• Color work integration using multiple yarn colors
• Intermediate skill level requiring competence with shaping techniques and pattern reading

Note: For every King Cole pattern purchased, a donation is made to the Pink Ribbon Foundation.