5 Lovely & Simple Knitting Patterns for Toddler Sweaters, Perfect for Fall
Autumn is every knitter’s time to shine; bring on the shine with these sweet, simple toddler sweater patterns
To many people, autumn is a favorite season. The air is finally cooling. The humidity feels crisp against the skin instead of clammy. The leaves are changing colors and beginning to fall. Summer has, at last, relinquished its stifling grasp upon us, and we can take a breath of chilly air.
But to a knitter, autumn takes a whole new level of meaning.
Because autumn is our time to shine, is it not?
Now everyone is looking for their hats, their scarves, their mittens, their shawls, their sweaters. And this is also when knitters start looking at their pattern stashes and thinking, “What shall I make now?”
(Do you not have a pattern stash?? Hm, I thought everyone had one of those to go along with their yarn stashes… 😆)
Kick Off Autumn: Cast On a Sweater
One enjoyable way to kick off the joys of autumn is to start a sweater. Autumn is, after all, called “sweater weather” by nearly everyone.
But if you’re not used to knitting sweaters, or if they seem far too intimidating to even begin? Take heart. Try knitting a sweater for a toddler, rather than a fully-grown adult. The smaller size means that it takes far less time (and mistakes are far less obvious).
And if you’re looking for truly simple sweater patterns for toddlers… I’ve got you covered!
Photo: Lion Brand
Sugar & Spice & Everything Nice…
- What you’ll need to make it: 900 yards worsted weight yarn; US Size 8 (or size needed to get gauge) needles; stitch markers; stitch holders (spare DPNs or scrap yarn will work in a pinch); 2 5/8-inch buttons
- Why you’ll want to: The simple instructions make this adorable pattern perfect for the beginning knitter. Experienced knitters will find themselves reaching for this pattern again and again for birthdays!
Photo: Lion Brand
- What you’ll need to make it: 600 yards worsted weight yarn; US Size 7 and 9 (or size needed to get gauge) DPNs and/or circular needles (circular needles are required to accomodate large number of back stitches, but you may prefer DPNs for knitting sleeves in the round); stitch markers; stitch holders (spare DPNs or scrap yarn can be used in a pinch); 2 1/2-inch buttons
- Why you’ll want to: Just the name makes this hoodie irresistible, no? I especially love the two-button closure and the edging. The hood makes this otherwise easy pattern a great fit for new knitters ready for a bit more of a challenge.
Photo: Lion Brand
- What you’ll need to make it: 555 yards worsted weight yarn; US Size 5, (or size needed to get gauge) 24-inch circular needle (used to hold large number of stitches, but still knit flat); stitch markers; stitch holders (spare DPNs or scrap yarn will work in a pinch); 1 7/8-inch button
- Why you’ll want to: The eyelet detail on the yoke makes this gorgeous pattern, and it’s easier to knit than you might imagine. The yoke will require a bit more time to knit, but the sizing (ages 1 to 4 years) ensures more wear to make your knitting efforts well worth it.
Snips & Snails & Puppy Dog Tails…
Photo: Lion Brand
- What you’ll need to make it: 200 yards per color of worsted weight yarn; US Size 9 (or size needed to get gauge) needles; stitch holders (spare DPNs or scrap yarn can be used in a pinch); 4 3/4-inch buttons
- Why you’ll want to: This color-blocked cardigan pattern will offer such spiffy sweetness to little boys. Knit it in a boy’s favorite colors, and watch it become his favorite sweater.
Photo: Lion Brand
- What you’ll need to make it: 680 (more will be needed for larger sizes, of course) yards worsted weight yarn; US Size 7 and 9 (or size needed to get gauge) needles; stitch markers
(For the optional ties and pocket, you’ll need a little more yarn and double-pointed needles to make the I-cord)
- Why you’ll want to: If you’re looking for one great pattern that you can knit for every kid in your life (and even adults!), take a look at this pattern. Its simplicity ensures that it will charm all ages, and its classic details (like the simple hood and the front hands pocket) will keep it fashionable for many years to come.
When autumn is around the corner, the time is right for a simple sweater for toddlers… and beyond!
