Sleeve-shortening guide for top-down sweaters.
Hello friends,
Ever love a sweater pattern but wished it had shorter sleeves for warmer weather? You’re not alone! Many knitters (including my talented test knitters*) enjoy adapting long-sleeve designs into short-sleeve versions.
(By the way, you can join them too! Keep an eye out for test knitter calls in future Esenotes.)
That’s why I’m so excited to share some helpful tips on shortening sleeves for top-down sweaters. So you can knit the sweater of your dreams - even if the pattern only offers long sleeves!
Set-in sleeves require more complex adjustments, so we’ll focus on raglan and other top-down sleeve styles for now.
Getting started: follow the pattern (for now).
For sweaters with sleeves that have picked-up stitches from the armhole, start by following the pattern instructions exactly as written. We’ll make adjustments after you start knitting the sleeve itself.
Shaping your sleeves.
When it’s time to work the sleeve, decide if you want straight sleeves for a relaxed fit or a more fitted style that hugs your arm.
Additionally, consider your desired sleeve length.
Keep a record of any adjustments you make along the way. A common mistake knitters make is forgetting the adjustments they’ve made. Don’t let yourself guess what you did on the first sleeve!
Be ready to try on the sleeve as you increase the length.
For straight, above-the-elbow sleeves, you can knit without decreasing stitches. Simply knit until you reach the desired length and then work the edge.
For a more fitted sleeve:
Measure your desired finished sleeve width at the cuff. This will be your target number of stitches.
Calculate the difference between your desired width and the initial sleeve stitch count. This tells you how many stitches you need to decrease.
Decrease strategically using techniques like SSK (Slip, Slip, Knit) and K2tog (Knit Two Together). Aim to remove two stitches per round spaced evenly throughout the decrease zone.
In both cases, mind your stitch count. Ensure your final stitch count is a multiple of the number of stitches required for your chosen sleeve edge pattern, such as 1x1 or 2x2 ribbing.
With a little planning and these helpful tips, you can easily transform long-sleeved sweaters into summer-ready knits!
📔 Pattern of the week. I have a fantastic project for you: Highly elegant Plain Yoke Tee 20 Solo by Lene Holme Samsoe, LeKnit
Why you’ll love it:
Beginner-Friendly: This pattern includes a Novice Option, allowing you to skip short rows for a simpler project.
Perfect for Round Yoke Newbies: If you’ve never tried a round yoke before, this is a great beginner project!
Just like all good patterns, the Plain Yoke Tee 20 Solo is size-inclusive, with a finished chest circumference ranging from 87-155 cm (34-61 inches).
Elegant Design: No need for neck ribbing! The cast-on edge naturally rolls for a clean and elegant look.
Clear Instructions: The pattern boasts clear instructions with minimal complex techniques, making it enjoyable to knit.
🧶 New summer yarn release. Introducing Önling No 14: Lyocell yarn (available in 10 gorgeous colors).
Önling No 14 is a lovely, soft summer yarn made from 100% TENCEL™ Lyocell.
It has a slight surface sheen.
Weight & yardage per ball: 50 g = approx. 114 m / 127 yds.
Recommended needle size: 3-5 / US 2.5-8.
Drops Belle and Sandnes Garn Line can be substituted with this yarn.
Interesting to know: Compared to cotton, consumers find Lyocell fibers to be softer and airier to the touch, thanks to their superior ability to absorb moisture. This keeps you cool and comfortable all summer long.
Sustainable Choice: Önling No 14 is a sustainable choice you can feel good about. The cellulose fibers come from PEFC-certified forests, and the production process is eco-friendly. Plus, Lyocell yarn is 100% biodegradable, strong, lightweight, and has a beautiful drape.
Right now, Önling No 14 is available at a discounted price on their website – don’t miss out on 15% off!
✨ What’s new in the Esenique World?
My amazing test knitters and I are so close to finishing the testing phase of the Mellow Mood top! Fingers crossed, I hope to introduce it to you in the next 2-3 weeks. To ensure you feel confident knitting this beautiful top, I’m also working hard on a brand new video tutorial.
Already knitted the Mellow Mood Sweater? This DK weight yarn version is a fantastic opportunity to create a new version with a different i-cord edge!
Here’s a sneak peek! My first sample ended up a bit too big for me, but guess what?
That just gave me the perfect excuse to unravel and start again! This pattern is highly addictive!
❤️ I hope this Esenote was useful and inspiring.
On a side note, guess who's celebrating a birthday today? 🥳
It's me! Turning 38 feels like a whole new chapter is unfolding. I'm brimming with plans and creative energy, and to celebrate, Alex (my husband) and I are off on an adventure! We're exploring a charming little city by a stunning blue lake. We can't wait to soak up the sights and, of course, indulge in all the delicious cakes we find!
Warm regards,
Julia Piro
Knitwear Designer & Esenotes Curator
P.S. Looking for even more inspiration? Follow me on Instagram or Facebook!
