The Upside-down Sweater – Easy Crochet Jumper Pattern
Introducing the Upsidedown crochet sweater pattern!
It’s a simple crochet jumper which will go with anything. A perfect addition to your capsule crochet wardrobe, or maybe the first crochet garment you’ll create to get it started.
Either way, you won’t want to take this one off!
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Update for 2021: Note that this pattern has been updated from the original design. The new version has had a few modifications made to the shaping around the neckline to give the design more longevity. The sleeve shaping has been slightly adjusted for a better fit and the new version is available in 9 sizes XS – 5XL.
You can see a photo of the original version at the end of this post.
You can purchase the PDF crochet pattern from Ravelry, Etsy or Love Crafts Crochet.
About the crochet sweater: Fit and style
The style of the upsidedown sweater is loose and a little baggy, but not oversized.
It has a fairly wide (but not quite off the shoulder), slightly rounded boat-neck with gentle shaping to ensure comfort.
It is a simple, drop shoulder construction with minimal sewing required, perfect if you’re new to crochet garments or not a fan of seaming! (You can learn more about garment construction styles here)
The body panels are worked one way (bottom-up), the sides are seamed, and the sleeves are worked top-down directly from the arm holes; up – side – down!
For scale, the item pictured is made in a size small and worn by me – I’m nearly 5’2” and a UK size 8-10 / US 4-6.
The sample you see pictured is cropped to sit at the top of the hips but it is easy to adjust the length to suit your preferences (notes are given on this in the pattern).
Skills used
This project is suitable for an advanced beginner and would make an ideal first garment pattern.
It uses the timeless classic, and one of my favourites, moss stitch, which is just a combination of (US) single crochets and chains.
The pattern includes a photo guide to help with construction and the simple neck shaping, and you can find a link to a tutorial to show how the ribbing is added to the cuffs, neckline and hem in this post which shows it in the context of a ribbed hat band.
The pattern is worked in rows and rounds, with minimal sewing and uses simple decreases.
As with all dora does crochet patterns, it is written in English using standard US crochet terms (UK equivalents are always given in the abbreviations section).
Materials
The upside-down sweater uses from 920m (for size XS) to 1820m (for size 5XL) Aran / Heavy worsted / 10ply Yarn and a 6mm crochet hook. (For this pattern I used a clover amour hook)
I went down to a 5mm crochet hook for the ribbing around the neck, cuffs and hem, though that is optional.
The approximate yarn meterage required for each size is detailed in the pattern.
The item pictured used of City Tweed Aran from We Crochet, 55% Merino Wool, 25% Superfine alpaca, 20% Donegal tweed. (100g = 180m / 164 yds)
This lovely teal / petrol blue green shade is called Jacquard.
Yarn Substitution Options
Any Aran / Heavy Worsted weight yarn which meets gauge can be used in this pattern. I recommend a wool / wool blend or acrylic fibre.
The yarn used had some alpaca in it which adds a plump halo to the yarn and creates a more opaque fabric. This was chosen specifically to work with the relaxed tension use in the design.
A smoother yarn may create a sweater which shows off the gaps in the stitch pattern more. Make sure you swatch to check you are happy with your yarn choice (as well as to match gauge).
You may find this post useful in choosing a substitute yarn.
If you want a more opaque fabric, you may find that working with a light chunky / bulky weight yarn helps you achieve that effect. Note that this will create a thicker fabric with less drape so make sure you’re satisfied with your swatch before starting!
I explain the differences between yarn weights in this article.
How to purchase a Dora Does crochet pattern:
I sell my PDF crochet patterns in my Etsy, Ravelry and Love Crafts stores. You can purchase this pattern on any of these platforms, depending on your preference. Simply click the relevant links throughout this pattern page to be taken to the listing, or visit the store homepages in the links at the start of this paragraph.
Measurements and finished size
The pattern is written for sizes XS – 5XL with a finished bust size from 90 – 172cm. Though the yarn craft council women’s standard sizes are used in writing the pattern, the design is gender neutral.
The pattern includes a table and schematic with a full breakdown of sizes which you can use to choose the size that best fits your requirements.
Purchase the PDF crochet pattern for the Upsidedown Sweater from Etsy, Ravelry or Love Crafts.
Sharing your dora does makes
I hope you enjoy this pattern, and as always, don’t forget to tag me in your finished makes.
Nothing makes me happier than seeing my designs brought to life by others. I love the colour choices and personal touches you add to the patterns.
On Instagram, you can use the hashtag #TheWiPTip (which is my weekly crochet newsletter – join here) or just tag @doradexplored.
You can add your pictures to my Facebook page or come and share them in my group – My crochet wardrobe – where we talk all things crochet garments!.
I’m also a huge fan of Pinterest so if you like my patterns I’d love it if you pin them, or visit my Pinterest page which showcases some wonderful inspirational crochet patterns – the talent out there blows my mind!
Until next time.
Happy Hooking
Dx
Below is a peek at the original version of this sweater which was made a little longer than the newer cropped version you see here.
Note that the original version of this sweater used the Leader of the Pac Yarn available from Hobbycraft (though I think the shade has sadly been discontinued). This is also an alpaca blend which is a dream to work with.
Copyright Dora Does Limited, Registered in England, Company Number 13992263. This pattern is for personal use only and may not be shared or reproduced in written, photo, video or any other form without prior written consent. All rights reserved. Terms of service.
Yep, that’d be right: he’s probably around my age. S’pose he’s Led Zeppelin fan, too .. 😀
Love the whole pattern, Dora ! – if I weren’t in the process of crocheting The Light Fandango and finding it truly interesting, I’d be doing this one.
P.S. How come you know about Procol Harum, anyway ? – you’re too young !! [grin]
Thanks so much 😊 and I’ll blame my dad for the musical appreciation!
Love the pics Dora x