EASY SWEATER SEWING PATTERNS

It's sweater season people, and the good news for us sewists is that they are easy to make. The tricky bit is narrowing down which design to go for, so doing as the Fold Line does, we have edited the options down to 10 easy jumper and sweatshirt sewing patterns that we think are really great.

This selection has a little something for everyone - including knit-fabric-novices. Knits aren't hard to work with, but you need to make sure you use a zig-zig or stretch stitch and a ballpoint needle so your seams don't pop. That's about it.

If it's your first time working with this wonder fabric, a sweater is a good way to go as they generally require stable knits and with only a few pieces to sew up, it's pretty quick once you get in the flow.

Tilly and the Buttons Drew Sweatshirt

The new kid on the block gives you the two ends of the sweater spectrum - the plain every day kind and the jazzy option. Let the deep raglan sleeves do the talking and sew it up in a plain fabric or make a sweatshirt full of personality with colour block sleeves.The detailed instructions make this a perfect introduction to sewing with stretch knit fabrics.

Sizing: UK 6 - 34

Coralie Bijasson Ellie Sweatshirt

If you prefer a more refined sweatshirt, I'd recommend this one. French designer Coralie Bijasson gives this easy pattern a chic edge with little flourishes like the three snaps at each shoulder and the gently full sleeves, thanks to the cuffs that bring them in.

Sizing: UK 6 - 24

Atelier Jupe Julia Sweater

Trends don't tend to be practical, but the pullover trend very much is. Julia has been one of our bestsellers this season for many reasons. The slightly dropped shoulders make it very comfy to wear and seamlines allow for you to play with colour blocking. If you pick a fleece or teddy fabric it will be super cosy, but will take the difficulty level up a pinch due to working with bulky fabrics.

Sizing: UK 8/10 - 24/26

The Maker's Atelier Flared Tunic and Top

I chose this one for those who like a grown-up jumper with bags of style. The flared shape is not only flattering, it gives it a chic edge. The seam lines down the front give the design some interest and I love the fact that you can choose to make a round or turtleneck, because let's be honest, you will make both! 

Sizing: UK 4 - 20

Matchy Matchy All Around Crew

An all-round good egg, this crew jumper has tons of versatility. Designed with comfort in mind, the boxy shape looks great layered over fuller dresses or with high waisted trousers. The fabric really changes the look of this pattern, sewn in a more drapey fabric its a pyjama top or a quilted jersey and it's the warmest sweater you own. The pattern comes with a free expansion pack with a slimmer sleeve, cuff at the wrist and bottom hem band, giving you even more options!

Sizing: UK 6 - 38

Birgitta Helmersson ZW Jumper

Do I have any sewing rebels in the house? Take your sweater in a sustainable direction with this uber-cool zero waste pattern. Zero waste designs are drawn directly onto the fabrics so other than a couple of templates, you won't be printing a whole pattern. The curved hem and oversized shape make this design look like it's straight out of a cool boutique.

Sizing: One size (approx up to a UK 28)

Sew House Seven Cosmos Sweatshirt

If you are a sweatshirt purist, this is just the job. This generous fitting sweatshirt is a quick and easy make and features a wide bottom band that lands just above the hip, making it perfect for wearing with almost anything. Pick from mid-height funnel neck or traditional curved neckline with a neckband and chose to make stylish bell sleeves or cuffed long sleeve. The raglan design also allows for a spot of colour blocking.

One more thing, the paper pattern comes with the Elemental Pencil Skirt so you can sew a trendy set. Digital lovers can download the skirt for free, so you can also make the set!

Sizing: UK 6 – 22 and UK 20 – 36/38

Fibre Mood Mabel Top

Do you steer clear of sweaters because the casual look isn't your thing? I've chosen a feminine option for you! The puff sleeves on Mabel make it more of a cosy blouse than a jumper. You can elevate the design further by adding the ruffle down the front. It could be a great party sweater if you sewed it in something sparkly!

Sizing: UK 6 – 28/30

Itch to Stitch Boalsburg Pullover

How about a no-fuss piece that combine comfort and style? The unique seamlines in both the front and back provide opportunities to colour block and personalise your garment, as well as giving you an opportunity to use up smaller off-cuts. The bonus of this pattern is that it comes with regular and full bust options for a great fit.

Sizing: UK 6/8 – 34/36 with regular and full bust options 

Ready to Sew Jocko Pullover 

I'll wrap things up with one for anyone who likes a little bum coverage (like me!). The slouch silhouette and side slits are all this pattern needs to shine. It looks great worn casually with jeans and you can choose whether to elevate your make with the buttons or snaps, or keep it clean. Speedy, simple and useful are my takeaways from this fab pattern.

Sizing: UK 4/6 - 22

I hope that's left you with a potential project for the cold weather season, but if you want to hunt further, check out all jumper and sweatshirt sewing patterns.