Sirdar Classic Pullover Jumper Knitting Pattern

Sirdar Classic Pullover - Double Knitting Sweater

What is Being Made

The Sirdar Classic Pullover (Design No. 10101) is a versatile crewneck sweater suitable for all seasons, available in six sizes ranging from 81/86 cm (32/34 inches) to 132/137 cm (52/54 inches) chest measurement. This beginner-friendly knitting pattern produces a finished garment with a full length ranging from 58 cm (22¾ inches) to 68 cm (26¾ inches) depending on size selected, with sleeve length options of 41-43 cm (16-17 inches).

Knitting Techniques Used

This pullover is constructed using bottom-up seamed construction, meaning pieces are knitted individually from the lower edge upward and then joined together with seams. The pattern is worked flat on straight needles rather than in the round, allowing for straightforward shaping and a traditional garment assembly approach. The design features garter stitch as the primary stitch pattern, creating a textured, reversible fabric with excellent drape and stretch recovery.

The bottom-up seamed method provides several advantages for knitters: it allows for easy adjustments to garment length before committing to final seaming, enables straightforward increases and decreases for shaping the armholes and neckline, and produces a classic finished look with visible seams that add structure to the garment.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

Garter stitch forms the foundation of this design. Garter stitch is created by knitting every row when working flat, producing horizontal ridges on both sides of the fabric. This fundamental stitch is ideal for beginner knitters as it requires only basic knit stitches with no purling, making it forgiving of tension inconsistencies while still producing a professional-looking finished garment.

The pattern includes standard shaping techniques such as increases for sleeve caps and decreases for armhole and neckline shaping. Stitch holders are required to hold stitches temporarily during construction, particularly for the neckline area during assembly.

Materials Required

This pattern calls for Sirdar No.1 Double Knitting yarn in shade 207. Double knitting (DK) weight yarn is a medium-weight yarn suitable for creating garments with good drape and wearability. Sirdar No.1 is described as a double knitting crepe with a gentle sheen and soft, silky feel, offering versatility and machine washability for easy care.

Yarn quantities vary by size: the smallest size requires 6 balls of 100g yarn (600g total), while the largest size requires 10 balls (1000g total). The pattern specifies 4mm (UK size 8 / USA size 6) knitting needles for achieving the correct tension of 21 stitches over 10 cm (4 inches) in garter stitch. Stitch holders are also needed to manage stitches during assembly.

Design Heritage and Quality Assurance

Sirdar, established in West Yorkshire in 1880, is a British yarn company with a rich hand knitting heritage spanning generations. The company triple-checks every pattern to guarantee successful results when using the recommended Sirdar yarns, ensuring that knitters following this design will achieve professional-quality results.