Abbe Kids Pullover Knitting Pattern Download

When I decided to hand-dye cotton, my Captiva base is exactly what I was looking for in a cotton yarn. Captiva has a wrap, which allows it to hold its shape, provides an interesting texture, and has lovely stitch definition. Abbe is my perfect squishy beach sweater. It can work with many different DK weight yarns.   

A note about sizing: The sizing for children’s clothing can vary quite a bit. In my research, I found that range became even more muddled, as the sizes got bigger. The Size 14/16 has a 36” chest, which can fit between a 14/16 girl and an XS adult. I was generous with the sizing, so this garment can be used to layer. If possible, its helpful to have the chest measurement of the recipient... and to do a proper gauge swatch. This design is one that less experienced knitters could make. The pattern utilizes basic sweater techniques: mattress stitch, picking-up sts, and three-needle bind off (more construction details below).

Sizes/Finished Chest Measurements
Sizes: 12-18 months (2-4, 4-6, 6-8, 8-10, 10-12, 12-14, 14-16)years
Referred to as Sizes 1 (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8) throughout pattern
At Chest: 19.5 (22, 24, 26, 28, 31, 33, 36)” / 49.5 (56, 61, 66, 71, 78.5, 84, 91)cm
Suggested Fit (postive ease): 1-3” for smaller sizes, 2-4” for larger sizes. Shown with 4” positive ease.

Yarn
Captiva by KittyBea Knitting
100% Peruvian Tanguis Cotton: 219 yds (200m)/100g
2 (2, 3, 3, 3, 3, 4, 4) skeins, shown in Colorway: The Keys

Gauge
18 sts and 25 rows = 4” (10 cm) in Stk st on US 7 (4.5mm), after wet-blocking.
18 sts and 28 rows = 4” (10 cm) in 2 x 2 Rib on US 5 (3.75mm), after wet-blocking.

Needles

• 24” and/or 32” circular needles in size US 7 (4.5mm) or size needed to obtain gauge.
• 24” circular needle in size US 5 (3.75 mm), 2 sizes smaller, or size needed to obtain gauge.
• Size US 5 (3.75 mm), needle(s) suitable for working small circumferences in the round (for Neckband).
• One spare size US US 7 (4.5mm), for three-needle BO.

Notions

• Stitch marker
• Tapestry needle
• Waste yarn, stitch holder(s), or The Knitting Barber Cords

Notes
This slightly boxy pullover is first knit flat as separate Front and Back pieces, which are then seamed at the Shoulder using three-needle bind off or mattress stitch. I do find three-needle BO creates a more stable seam, especially for plant-based yarns. The Neck Band is picked-up and knitted in the round. Once the sleeve stitches are picked-up, they are worked flat before one continuous seam is created (from the edge of the sleeve cuff, down through the underarm and side of body). If you want to add length, you can add a Section directly after the bottom rib. Be sure to add on both the Front and Back pieces.
The sleeves, as written, are full-length for most people. If you’d like shorter sleeves, you can work the cuff rib after any sleeve Section.

All of my patterns are named after important figures in the history of Sarasota and Manatee Counties. The inspiration behind this piece is the story of Charles Abbe. 

Read more about my transition to knitwear design HERE.