Boys and Girls Sweaters in Sirdar Supersoft Aran - 2395 - Downloadable PDF

Boys and Girls Sweaters in Sirdar Supersoft Aran – Pattern 2395

This Sirdar knitting pattern (reference 2395) provides instructions for two classic children's sweaters worked in Sirdar Supersoft Aran yarn. Designed to fit children aged 2 to 13 years, the pattern covers six size graduations to suit a wide range of growing children. Both designs feature a structured cable panel as a central decorative feature, making them excellent projects for knitters who want to move beyond plain stocking stitch and explore textured techniques. The sweaters are practical, cosy, and timeless in style — ideal for everyday wear through the cooler months.

The Two Designs

Round Neck Sweater

The first design is a round neck sweater, a universally flattering and easy-to-wear silhouette for children of all ages. It features a neat, ribbed neckband that sits comfortably and holds its shape well over repeated wearing and washing. The body is worked with a prominent cable pattern panel as the central design feature, framed by areas of smooth stocking stitch. This combination of textures gives the sweater visual interest without being overly complex. The round neck version is knitted using Sirdar Supersoft Aran shade 911, and requires 2 to 4 balls of 100g yarn depending on the size being made.

Polo Neck Sweater

The second design is a polo neck sweater, offering extra warmth and coverage around the neck — a practical choice for outdoor activities and cold weather. The polo collar is worked in rib to give it stretch and a neat, rolled or folded finish. Like the round neck version, it incorporates the same cable pattern panel across the body, ensuring both designs share a cohesive, coordinated aesthetic. The polo neck sweater is knitted in Sirdar Supersoft Aran shade 910, and also requires 2 to 4 balls of 100g yarn depending on size.

Sizing and Measurements

The pattern is graded across six sizes, designed to fit chest measurements from 56 cm (22 in) up to 81 cm (32 in), corresponding to ages 2–3 through to 12–13 years. Actual garment measurements include a small amount of positive ease for comfortable fit. Full lengths range from 38 cm to 58 cm, and sleeve lengths from approximately 24 cm to 42 cm, with a note that sleeve length is adjustable — a helpful feature when knitting for children whose proportions may vary from standard sizing.

Techniques Used

• Cable knitting: A central cable pattern panel runs the length of the body, creating a raised, rope-like or twisted texture. Cables are formed by holding stitches on a cable needle and crossing them over one another at regular intervals, producing a three-dimensional effect that is a hallmark of traditional Aran-style knitwear.
• Stocking stitch: The main body fabric surrounding the cable panel is worked in classic stocking stitch — knit on the right side, purl on the wrong side — producing a smooth, even surface that contrasts beautifully with the textured cable.
• Rib stitch: Used for the welts (lower edges of the body and sleeves) and neckbands, rib stitch creates a stretchy, structured edging that helps garments retain their shape and fit snugly at cuffs, hems, and collars.
• Shaping: Standard knitting shaping techniques are used throughout, including increases and decreases to shape the armholes, sleeves, and necklines cleanly.
• Working from a stitch holder: Stitches are placed on a stitch holder at key points — typically at the neckline — to be returned to the needles later when working the neckband or collar, a common and essential technique in sweater construction.

Stitches Used

• Stocking stitch (St st)
• Cable pattern stitch (worked over a panel of 58 or 64 stitches depending on size)
• Rib stitch (for welts, cuffs, and neckbands)

Materials Required

Both sweaters are knitted in Sirdar Super