Bring on the bright colors for summer! This classic, unisex zip-up hoodie features bold stripes, diagonal front pockets, a separating zipper, and a pull cord in the functional hood. It would work great for playdates or breezy days at the beach, and your little one will love the soft and comfy feel of the cotton/acrylic blend yarn!

This pattern includes some clever construction techniques for a flawless, classic look. The diagonal pocket stitches are set aside on holders while the pocket linings are cast on, worked with the body of the sweater, and cast off again. The pocket stitches are then picked up and worked separately. Finally, the pocket stitches are joined to the body for a seamless, hidden finish. The linings will be sewn to the underside of the body after the sweater is fully constructed. The hood is worked all in one piece featuring a special joining technique that creates a “seam” on either side of the center panel. The hood also features a casing and buttonhole eyelets for a cinching cord, made to match using the I-cord technique. The sweater body is worked in one piece to the armholes. The sleeves are worked in the round to the armholes, then joined to the body. Sleeves and body are worked as one with raglan shaping, moving seamlessly into the hood. In other words, despite the intricate construction elements, this sweater has minimal seams to sew after knitting is complete. I provide notes on Kitchener’s stitch to graft the armhole stitches as well as the I-cord technique to create the hood cord.

This pattern includes five sizes: 12-18 months (25” chest), 18-24 months (26” chest), 2-4 years (28” chest), and 4-6 years (30” chest), 6-8 years (32” chest).

The gauge is 20 st and 28 rows over 4” in stockinette stitch. In order for the stripe pattern to match up, the vertical gauge is also quite important in this garment, so take the time to check the gauge.

For this sweater, I used Knit Picks Comfy worsted weight yarn (75% pima cotton, 25% acrylic, 109 yds per ball). You will need 3 (3, 4, 4, 5) balls of Lilac #24798, and 3 (3, 3, 4, 4) balls of Peapod #24801, or equivalent amounts in a worsted weight yarn. For a cold-weather sweater, you could choose a wool blend or an acrylic with a bit of body.

You will also need 32” circular needles and double pointed needles, both in size US 7 or whatever size necessary to get the gauge, and one size down as well. Straight needles will not work for this pattern. Finally, you will need a size F crochet hook for the finishing work.

This pattern includes written instructions for the five sweater sizes listed above, color photographs, a schematic, and notes on Kitchener’s stitch and I-cord technique. The pattern is recommended for intermediate knitters. While the pattern is quite straightforward, the construction techniques used in the pockets and hood may be a bit tricky for a true beginner.

5/12/2016 Errata:
I have uploaded a new version of the Summer Striped Hoodie pattern that includes detailed instructions for sewing in the zipper as well as instructions for optional zipper facings.