Sirdar 8131 Woman's Top Jumper Knitting Pattern

Sirdar 8131 Woman's Top

What is Being Made

This is a woman's top pattern from Sirdar, available in both long-sleeved and short-sleeved versions. The pattern includes six size options ranging from 81/86 cm (32/34 in) bust to 132/137 cm (52/54 in) bust, making it suitable for a wide range of fit requirements. The finished garment features a classic, wearable design with actual bust measurements ranging from 90 cm (35½ in) to 141 cm (55½ in), and full length measurements from 55 cm (21¾ in) to 68 cm (26¾ in). Long sleeves measure 46–48 cm (18–19 in), while short sleeves are a consistent 12 cm (4¾ in) across all sizes.

Knitting Techniques

This garment is constructed using the bottom-up method, meaning pieces are knitted from the lower edge upward toward the shoulders. The pattern employs seamed construction, where individual pieces are knitted flat and then sewn together to form the finished top. This traditional approach allows for precise shaping and a professional finish. The flat knitting method (working back and forth on straight needles rather than in the round) is used throughout, giving knitters greater control over increases, decreases, and shaping details.

Stitches and Stitch Techniques

The primary stitch used in this pattern is stocking stitch (also called stockinette stitch), which creates the smooth, classic fabric characteristic of many knitted garments. The pattern specifies a tension of 22 stitches and 28 rows to 10 cm (4 in) over stocking stitch, which is essential for achieving the correct finished measurements.

The pattern incorporates several shaping techniques to create a well-fitted garment:

• Decreases are used to shape the waist and armholes, with techniques including k2tog (knit two together) and k1, psso (knit one, pass slipped stitch over)
• Increases are employed for bust shaping, including M1p (make one purl), which involves picking up the loop between stitches and purling into the back of the loop
• Slip stitch techniques (s1) are used for edge finishing and seam allowances

Materials and Yarn

The recommended yarn is Sirdar Summer Linen DK, a double knitting weight yarn supplied in 50g balls. For the long-sleeved version in shade 201, yardage requirements range from 9 balls (for the smallest size) to 16 balls (for the largest size). For the short-sleeved version in shade 202, requirements range from 7 to 12 balls depending on size.

The pattern notes that this design is also suitable for several alternative DK-weight yarns, including Amalfi DK, Beachcomber DK, Colourwheel DK, Colourwheel Dazzle DK, Cotton DK, Cotton Prints DK, Country Style DK, Crofter DK, Dapple DK, Harrap Tweed DK, Sirdar No.1, Soukie DK, and Toscana DK. Knitters should note that yarn amounts may vary when substituting alternative yarns.

The pattern requires one pair of 4mm (UK size 8 / USA size 6) knitting needles to achieve the specified tension. Proper tension is emphasized as essential for success, with guidance that knitters should use thinner needles if their tension produces fewer stitches, or thicker needles if it produces more stitches.

Pattern Structure and Sizing

The pattern is presented with size markers for easy reference, allowing knitters to circle their chosen size and follow the corresponding numbers throughout the instructions. The sizing is inclusive, accommodating both petite and larger frame sizes with thoughtful grading of length and sleeve measurements.