Rowan Dennis Jumper Knitting Pattern

Rowan Dennis Knitted Sweater by Martin Storey

What is Being Made

The Rowan Dennis is a children's knitted sweater designed by Martin Storey, available in four sizes to fit ages 5-6, 7-8, 9-10, and 11-12 years. The garment features an actual chest measurement ranging from 78 cm (30¾ inches) for the smallest size to 96.5 cm (38 inches) for the largest size. This classic pullover design includes practical details such as set-in armholes, shaped shoulders, and functional patch pockets, making it a versatile everyday knit for children.

Construction Techniques

The Dennis sweater is constructed using the bottom-up method, meaning the knitter begins at the lower edge and works upward toward the neckline. The garment is worked flat on straight needles rather than in the round, which allows for straightforward shaping and pocket placement. The pieces are seamed together after completion, creating neat, durable seams along the sides and sleeves. This traditional construction approach provides excellent stitch definition and makes it easier to achieve precise measurements and fit adjustments.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The primary stitch used throughout the Dennis sweater is stockinette stitch (abbreviated as st st), which creates the classic smooth, V-textured fabric characteristic of traditional knitwear. Stockinette stitch is formed by alternating knit rows on the right side with purl rows on the wrong side. The pattern also incorporates decreasing techniques for shaping the armholes and neckline, and casting off (binding off) at strategic points to create the garment's structure. The pocket lining is worked in stockinette stitch as well, ensuring a consistent fabric weight and appearance throughout the garment.

Materials and Tools

The Dennis sweater is knitted using Softyak DK yarn, a double-knitting weight yarn that provides a soft, durable fabric suitable for children's wear. The yarn requirements vary by size: the smallest sizes require 6 x 50gm balls of Canopy (color 254) for the main color, while the largest size requires 10 x 50gm balls. An additional 1 x 50gm ball of Jaune (color 252) is needed for all sizes, used for the ribbed edging at the back neck. Knitting is worked on two pairs of needles: 3¼mm (US 3) needles for the ribbed edging and 4mm (US 6) needles for the main fabric. The pattern specifies a tension of 22 stitches and 30 rows to 10 cm when measured over stockinette stitch using the 4mm needles, which is essential for achieving the correct finished measurements.

Key Design Features

• Set-in armholes achieved through strategic casting off and decreasing
• Shaped shoulders and back neck for a well-fitted silhouette
• Functional patch pockets worked as separate linings and integrated into the front
• Two-color yarn work with contrasting ribbed neckline detail
• Multiple size options within a single pattern for growing children

This downloadable PDF pattern from Rowan provides comprehensive instructions for knitters to create a timeless, well-constructed children's sweater with professional finishing details.