Cozy & Classic: Knit the Sweetest Baby Sweater from Start to Finish

Intro

If you've ever wanted to knit a baby sweater but felt overwhelmed by where to start, this guide is for you. We are knitting the Cozy Classic Baby Pullover Sweater pattern and we've broken it down into 6 approachable steps, complete with video clips to guide you along the way. Whether you're making it for a new arrival or a cherished gift, this cozy classic pullover will quickly become your go-to baby knit. Let's get started!

00:00 Step 1: Cast On & Knit the Collar

We are making the 0-3 month size so start by casting on 60 stitches using the long-tail cast-on method. Make sure your stitches aren't twisted as you join in the round, and add a stitch marker to note the beginning. You'll work 6 rounds of 1x1 ribbing (knit one, purl one) to create a soft, stretchy collar.

01:48 Step 2: Set Up Raglan Markers & Begin Short Rows

Once your collar is complete, it’s time to place your stitch markers to define the shoulders, sleeves, and body sections. Begin raglan increases using "make one right" and "make one left" techniques, and start German short rows to shape the neckline for a better fit.

09:11 Step 3: Purl-Side Increases & Short Rows (Back Neck Shaping)

Continue building the neckline shaping with short rows on the purl side. You'll alternate between raglan increases and short row turns using the German short row method. This creates a gentle crescent shape that helps the sweater sit more comfortably around the neck.

12:53 Step 4: Raglan Increases in the Round

Now that your neckline is shaped, you’ll work in the round to continue the raglan increases. Alternate between increase rounds and plain knit rounds until you’ve completed 24 rounds and reached 156 stitches. Use stitch markers or a row counter to help keep track.

15:48 Step 5: Separate the Sleeves

At this point, you’ll slip the sleeve stitches onto holders or cords and cast on four stitches under each arm to bridge the gap. Then continue knitting the body of the sweater in stockinette stitch until it measures about 4 inches from the underarm. Finish the bottom edge hem with 7 rounds of 1x1 ribbing.

21:26 Step 6: Knit the Sleeves

Pick up the sleeve stitches, close any underarm gaps, and begin working the sleeves in the round. Decrease every few rows as instructed, finishing with ribbing for the cuff. You’ll use magic loop for these small circumferences. Repeat for the second sleeve.

27:05 Final Look: The Finished Sweater

After binding off and blocking, your baby sweater is complete! You’ll see the soft crescent neckline created by the short rows, smooth even stitches, and a cozy silhouette ready for a little one to wear with love.

Congratulations on your handmade heirloom!

Want to keep stitching for baby? Check out our other patterns on Sunny Day Fiber and step-by-step video tutorial for a matching baby hat on our blog: Knit a Cozy Baby Hat – Guide with Video Tutorial.

Check out our other blog posts for more information about getting started.