Rainham Jumper Knitting Pattern

Rainham Jumper in Berroco Emberstone

What is Being Made

The Rainham Jumper is an intermediate-level knitted sweater designed by Åsa Buchta. This garment is available in nine sizes, ranging from bust measurements of 35¼ inches (89.5 cm) to 69½ inches (176.5 cm), with finished lengths between 22 inches (56 cm) and 27½ inches (70 cm). The pattern accommodates a recommended positive ease of 4–10 inches (10–25 cm), allowing for comfortable, relaxed fit options across various body types.

Construction Technique

The Rainham Jumper employs a top-down construction method worked in the round. The garment begins with shoulder shaping created through strategic increases. The front and back sections are divided at the armholes and worked separately before being rejoined to continue working the body in the round down to the hem. This seamless construction approach minimizes finishing work and creates a cohesive, professionally finished garment. Sleeve stitches are picked up from the armhole edges and worked downward in the round, completing the sweater with minimal seaming.

Stitches and Techniques Used

The primary stitch pattern used throughout the Rainham Jumper is stockinette stitch (St st), which creates a smooth, classic fabric suitable for showcasing the yarn's color and texture. The pattern incorporates standard knitting techniques including:

• Working in the round using circular needles and double-pointed needles
• Shoulder shaping through increases
• Armhole division and separate flat sections
• Picking up stitches for sleeves
• Stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats and beginning of round (BOR)

The use of waste yarn to hold stitches allows for flexible construction and the ability to try on the garment during the knitting process.

Materials and Gauge

The Rainham Jumper is designed to be knitted with Berroco Emberstone yarn in colorway #11020 Blue Skies. Yarn requirements vary by size, ranging from 5 balls (100 g each) for the smallest size to 11 balls for the largest size. The pattern calls for size 10 (6 mm) circular needles in both 16-inch (40 cm) and 32-inch (80 cm) lengths, along with a set of size 10 (6 mm) double-pointed needles or preferred needles for working small circumferences such as sleeve caps. A tapestry needle is required for weaving in ends and finishing. The recommended gauge is 15 stitches and 22 rows per round in stockinette stitch over 4 inches (10 cm), measured after blocking. Checking gauge before beginning is essential to ensure accurate finished measurements and proper fit.