Child's Aran/Bulky Top Down Jumper

Child's Aran Top Down Raglan Jumper by Leanna's Designs

What is Being Made

This is a cosy children's jumper designed by Leanna Booth, available in six sizes ranging from 2T to 12 years old. The garment features a classic raglan construction with sleeves that decrease gradually from the neckline down to the cuffs. The jumper includes a thoughtfully designed neckline with subtle shaping at the back and offers the option of a split hem for added versatility and comfort.

Knitting Techniques

The jumper is constructed using a top-down raglan method, which means knitting begins at the neckline and progresses downward toward the hem and cuff edges. This approach allows for easy fitting adjustments and eliminates the need for seaming. The designer has incorporated short rows at the back of the neck to add depth and improve fit around the shoulder blades—a simple technique that enhances the garment's comfort and appearance.

The sleeves are knit flat rather than in the round, giving knitters flexibility in their construction method. Alternatively, knitters may choose to use the Magic Loop technique with circular needles or double-pointed needles (DPNs) if they prefer working in the round. The split hem option provides an additional customization feature for the garment's lower edge.

Stitches Used

The pattern employs fundamental knitting stitches suitable for a beginner-level project. Key abbreviations include PM (Place Marker) to denote increases at raglan lines, MM (Move Marker) to track shaping points, and M1 (Make One), which involves picking up the loop between stitches and knitting through the back of the loop to create new stitches for raglan increases.

Materials and Gauge

This jumper is designed for Aran weight yarn, also known as bulky yarn. Yardage requirements vary by size: 2T requires 2 balls of 100g yarn, increasing progressively to 5 balls for the largest 12-year size. The designer used a self-striping yarn without a manufacturer's label, requiring gauge experimentation to determine appropriate needle sizing.

The recommended gauge is 15 stitches and 21 rows over 10 centimeters (4 inches) when measured over stockinette stitch. Knitters should work with two sets of 24-inch circular needles in 5mm (US 8) and 6mm (US 10), corresponding to UK sizes 6 and 4 respectively. The larger needles accommodate the initial cast-on and body, while the smaller needles are used for ribbed cuffs and hem edges to create definition and prevent stretching.

Sizing Information

• Size 2T: Chest 53cm (21"), Sleeve 27cm, Upper Arm/Wrist 10.5"
• Size 4: Chest 58cm (23"), Sleeve 28cm, Upper Arm/Wrist 11"
• Size 6: Chest 63cm (25"), Sleeve 29cm, Upper Arm/Wrist 11.5"
• Size 8: Chest 67cm (26.5"), Sleeve 32cm, Upper Arm/Wrist 12.5"
• Size 10: Chest 71cm (28"), Sleeve 34cm, Upper Arm/Wrist 13.5"
• Size 12: Chest 76cm (30"), Sleeve 38cm, Upper Arm/Wrist 15"

Difficulty Level

This pattern is rated as beginner-friendly, making it an excellent choice for knitters new to garment construction. The straightforward top-down raglan method eliminates complex shaping, and the short row technique used for neck depth is explained simply. The combination of basic stitches and clear construction methods makes this jumper an ideal first garment project for developing knitting skills.