Hop Little Bunnies

Hop Little Bunnies Raglan Jumper

What is Being Made

The Hop Little Bunnies is a child-friendly raglan jumper designed by Jane Reay for approximate ages 1 to 8 years. This downloadable knitting pattern features a charming decorative design with a row of rabbits at the chest and carrots at the lower edges, making it an ideal garment for Easter celebrations or year-round wear. The jumper includes a buttoned neck opening specifically designed to make dressing easier for small children. The pattern provides instructions for four size options: 1-2 years (finished chest 56.5 cm / 22"), 3-4 years (finished chest 61 cm / 24"), 5-6 years (finished chest 66 cm / 26"), and 7-8 years (finished chest 71 cm / 28").

Construction Technique

This raglan jumper is knitted in separate pieces rather than in the round, with seams used to join the components together. The construction method involves knitting the front, back, and sleeves as individual pieces before assembly. The raglan shaping creates diagonal seams from the underarm to the neckline, which is a classic garment construction technique that allows for comfortable movement and a flattering fit on children.

Stitches and Stitch Techniques

While the PDF excerpt does not specify individual stitch abbreviations, the pattern employs knitting stitches suitable for beginner-level knitters. The design incorporates decorative motifs—specifically a row of rabbits at the chest and carrots at the lower edges—which are likely created using stitch techniques such as intarsia or jacquard colorwork, or possibly embroidered details added after knitting.

Materials and Yarn

The Hop Little Bunnies pattern calls for double knitting (DK) weight yarn. The recommended yarn is Willow and Lark Ramble DK, though any yarn of the same gauge may be substituted. Yardage requirements are provided as ball quantities: 4 balls of 50g for the smallest size (1-2 years), increasing to 5 balls for the 3-4 year and 5-6 year sizes, and 6 balls for the largest 7-8 year size. The soft DK weight yarn is ideal for children's garments, providing comfort and durability while remaining lightweight and easy to work with for knitters of beginner skill level.

Finished Measurements

• 1-2 years: Finished chest 56.5 cm (22"), length from back of neck 35.5 cm (14"), sleeve seam 21.5 cm (8.5")
• 3-4 years: Finished chest 61 cm (24"), length from back of neck 40.5 cm (16"), sleeve seam 28 cm (11")
• 5-6 years: Finished chest 66 cm (26"), length from back of neck 44.5 cm (17.5"), sleeve seam 30.5 cm (12")
• 7-8 years: Finished chest 71 cm (28"), length from back of neck 47 cm (18.5"), sleeve seam 37 cm (14.5")

Skill Level

This pattern is classified as beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for knitters who are new to garment construction or those seeking a straightforward project. The seamed construction and use of DK weight yarn contribute to the accessibility of this design.