I designed this pattern to mimic a favorite ready-to-wear boxy top. I first recreated the top in fabric, then decided I could create the same shape in yarn.

This is a very easy sweater to knit. It is also very easy to alter the length of the sleeves or body. As written, this beginner-friendly sweater features a slightly cropped, box top fit with dropped shoulders, rolled boatneck, and loose three-quarter sleeves.

I’ve included both top-down and bottom-up directions. The first time I knit a sweater, I like to knit it from the top down for ease of trying on the sweater. However, once I’m confident in the size I want to knit, I prefer to knit sweaters from the bottom up. This is a personal choice, so I’ve included both options in this pattern.

Sizes

Sizes: 1 (2, 3, 4, 5)

Copper Sample shown in Size 2 on a 38-inch (96.5 cm) bust with approximately 2 inches (5 cm) of positive ease.

Teal Sample shown in Size 3 on a 38-inch (96.5 cm) bust with approximately 7 inches (18 cm) of positive ease with bracelet-length sleeves.

Finished bust circumference: 37 (40, 45, 51, 56) inches 94 (102, 114, 130, 142) cm

Recommended ease: 2-7 inches (5-18 cm)

Yarn

Copper Sample: 3 (3, 3, 4, 4) skeins of Stress Knits Favorite in color Rustbelt, 400 yards (366 meters)/100 g skein, 80% Merino/20% Nylon, fingering weight yarn.
Teal Sample: 2 (3, 3, 3, 4) skeins of The Fiber Seed Sprout Sock in color Deep Cerulean, 510 yards (466 meters)/135 g skein, 90% Merino/10% Nylon, fingering weight yarn.

Needles and Notions
US 4 (3.5 mm) circular needles; long cord for body in the round; 16 inches (40 cm) or double points for sleeves. Other notions: Stitch markers, stitch holders or waste yarn, tapestry needle.

Gauge
24 stitches and 36 rounds to 4 inches (10 cm) in Stockinette St on US 4 (3.5 mm) needles. Please block swatch to check gauge.

Technical Editing by Bronwyn Hahn.