Sirdar Tops Jumper Knitting Pattern

Sirdar Summer Linen DK Knitted Tops

What Is Being Made

These are classic knitted tops designed in Sirdar Summer Linen DK yarn, available in two sleeve length options: short-sleeved and three-quarter length versions. The pattern provides sizing for six different chest/bust measurements, ranging from 61/66 cm (24/26 inches) through to 112/117 cm (44/46 inches), with corresponding full length measurements from 40 cm (15¾ inches) to 64 cm (25¼ inches). The tops are versatile summer garments suitable for a range of body sizes and preferences.

Construction Technique

These tops are constructed using the bottom-up, seamed, and worked-flat method. This traditional approach means the knitter begins at the lower edge and works upward toward the neckline, with individual pieces (back, front, and sleeves) knitted separately on flat needles before being joined together with seams. This technique provides excellent control over shaping and fit, particularly important when working with lighter summer yarns.

Stitches and Stitch Techniques

The primary stitch used throughout these tops is stocking stitch (also called stockinette stitch), which creates a smooth, classic fabric with a neat appearance on the right side. The pattern incorporates decreasing techniques at strategic points to shape the garment, particularly at the armholes and neckline. Decreases are worked at each end of rows to create the necessary shaping for a well-fitted silhouette. The pattern also includes increases where needed for proper garment construction. Stitch holders are used to hold stitches temporarily during the assembly process.

Materials and Yarn

The primary yarn specified is Sirdar Summer Linen DK in shade 201 for the short-sleeved version or shade 206 for the three-quarter length version. Yarn requirements vary by size: the short-sleeved top requires between 4 and 10 balls of 50g yarn depending on the size chosen, while the three-quarter sleeved version requires between 5 and 12 balls. The pattern notes that several alternative DK-weight yarns are also suitable, including Sirdar No. 1, Colourwheel DK, Colourwheel Dazzle DK, Country Style DK, Crofter DK, Soukie DK, Beachcomber DK, Harrap Tweed DK, Amalfi DK, Cotton DK, Cotton Prints DK, Toscana DK, and Dapple DK, though yarn amounts may vary with substitutions.

Needles and Tension

The pattern requires two pairs of knitting needles: 4mm (UK8 – USA6) needles for the main fabric and 3¼mm (UK10 – USA3) needles for the ribbed cuff sections. Working to the correct tension is emphasized as essential for success. The specified tension is 22 stitches and 28 rows to 10cm (4 inches) over stocking stitch on 4mm needles. Knitters are advised to check their tension carefully before beginning, adjusting needle size if necessary: using a thinner needle if achieving more stitches than required, or a thicker needle if achieving fewer stitches.

Pattern Structure

The pattern begins with casting on using the thumb method on 3¼mm needles, creating the foundation for the garment. The initial rows establish the ribbed cuff detail before changing to the larger 4mm needles to work the main stocking stitch fabric. Shaping is introduced through strategic decreasing at each end of rows to refine the fit at key points in the garment construction. The pattern provides specific row counts and decrease sequences for each of the six available sizes, ensuring proper proportions across the full size range.