
Knitting is a timeless craft that allows you to create beautiful and functional garments. If you’re looking for a new project to tackle, why not try your hand at knitting a fisherman’s rib jumper? This classic design is not only cozy and warm, but it also adds a touch of sophistication to any outfit.
A fisherman’s rib jumper is perfect for those colder months when you want to stay snug and stylish. The unique ribbing pattern creates a thick and squishy fabric that is incredibly insulating. Whether you’re wearing it for a casual day out or a night on the town, this jumper will keep you comfortable and chic.
Don’t be intimidated by the intricate appearance of the fisherman’s rib. With a bit of patience and practice, you’ll master the technique in no time. Our knitting pattern for ladies fisherman’s rib jumper provides step-by-step instructions and helpful tips to guide you through the process. Plus, we’ve included a variety of sizes, so you can customize the fit to suit your preferences.
So gather your knitting needles and yarn, and get ready to embark on a rewarding knitting adventure. With our knitting pattern for ladies fisherman’s rib jumper, you’ll be able to create a timeless and stylish garment that will keep you warm and fashionable for years to come.
Materials
The fisherman’s rib jumper requires the following materials:
- Yarn: Choose a soft and warm yarn for the jumper. Worsted weight or Aran weight yarn is recommended. You will need approximately 800-1000 yards of yarn.
- Knitting Needles: Use a pair of size 8 (5mm) knitting needles for the main body of the jumper. You will also need a pair of size 7 (4.5mm) knitting needles for the ribbed cuffs and collar.
- Cable Needle: A cable needle is necessary for creating the intricate cable pattern in the fisherman’s rib.
- Tapestry Needle: A tapestry needle will be used for sewing in loose ends and finishing touches.
In addition to these materials, you may also want to have stitch markers, scissors, and a row counter handy to help keep track of your progress.
Note: The yarn and needle sizes mentioned above are suggestions. Adjustments can be made based on your preference and the gauge you achieve. It’s important to make a gauge swatch before starting to ensure the correct fit and to determine the appropriate needle size.
Gauge
When knitting a garment, achieving the correct gauge is crucial to ensure that the finished piece fits properly. The gauge refers to the number of stitches and rows per inch of knitted fabric. It is usually specified in the knitting pattern and serves as a guide to determine if you are knitting at the correct tension.
To achieve the correct gauge, it is recommended to use the same yarn, knitting needles, and stitch pattern as indicated in the pattern. This will help ensure that your gauge matches the gauge specified in the pattern and that your garment will turn out the correct size.
Start by making a gauge swatch by casting on the number of stitches specified in the pattern and knitting a square of about 4 inches in size. Measure the number of stitches and rows within the square and compare it to the gauge specified in the pattern.
If your gauge is too tight, meaning you have more stitches and rows per inch than specified, you can try using larger knitting needles. Conversely, if your gauge is too loose, meaning you have fewer stitches and rows per inch, you can try using smaller knitting needles.
Remember that achieving the correct gauge is important for the overall fit and size of your garment. Take the time to make a gauge swatch and adjust your knitting as necessary to ensure a successful project.
Sizing
When it comes to knitting a sweater, getting the right size is crucial for a perfect fit. The sizing for this fisherman’s rib jumper pattern is available in several sizes, ranging from small to extra-large. It is important to carefully measure yourself or the recipient of the sweater to ensure the correct size is chosen.
To determine the size, you will need to measure the bust circumference. Wrap a measuring tape around the fullest part of the bust, ensuring it is snug but not too tight. Compare this measurement to the sizing chart provided in the pattern to find the corresponding size.
Here is a general sizing guide for reference:
- Small: Bust circumference: 32-34 inches
- Medium: Bust circumference: 36-38 inches
- Large: Bust circumference: 40-42 inches
- Extra-Large: Bust circumference: 44-46 inches
The pattern also includes information on the finished measurements of the sweater, such as the width and length. This can be useful for making any adjustments or modifications to the pattern to achieve the desired fit.
Remember, it is always better to err on the side of caution and choose a slightly larger size if you are unsure. It is easier to make a sweater smaller by taking in the seams or adjusting the length than trying to stretch it to fit if it is too small.
Abbreviations
In the knitting pattern for this ladies fisherman’s rib jumper, you will come across various abbreviations. These abbreviations are commonly used in knitting patterns to simplify instructions. Here are some of the abbreviations you may encounter:
- k: knit
- p: purl
- st(s): stitch(es)
- sl 1: slip 1 stitch
- psso: pass slipped stitch over
- k2tog: knit 2 stitches together
- rep: repeat
- inc: increase
- dec: decrease
These abbreviations are used throughout the pattern to indicate specific actions or stitches that need to be performed. It is important to familiarize yourself with these abbreviations before starting the project, as they will make it easier to understand the instructions provided.
Instructions

In order to knit the fisherman’s rib jumper for ladies, follow the steps below:
Materials

- Yarn: Choose a medium weight yarn in your desired color. Approximately 800-1000 yards will be needed.
- Needles: Use US size 8 (5mm) circular needles, or size needed to obtain gauge, with a cable length of at least 32 inches.
- Stitch markers: You’ll need 4 stitch markers to mark the raglan increases and decreases.
- Tapestry needle: A needle with a large eye will be useful for weaving in ends.
Gauge
Before starting the pattern, it’s important to check your gauge. Knit a swatch using the fisherman’s rib stitch pattern and US size 8 needles. Measure a 4×4 inch square and count how many stitches and rows are in that measurement. Adjust your needle size as needed to obtain the correct gauge.
Pattern

- Cast on 108 stitches using the long-tail cast on method.
- Place markers to indicate the beginning and end of each raglan section (4 markers total).
- Row 1: *K1, P1* Repeat across the row.
- Row 2: *K1, P1 into the stitch below* Repeat across the row.
- Repeat rows 1 and 2 until the body measures approximately 11 inches from the cast on edge.
- Divide for sleeves: Transfer 30 stitches to waste yarn for each sleeve, and continue working the remaining 48 stitches for the front and 48 stitches for the back.
- Work the front and back sections separately in fisherman’s rib until they measure approximately 18 inches from the cast on edge.
- Rejoin the sleeves: Place the 30 stitches from each sleeve back onto the needles, and knit in fisherman’s rib for approximately 6 inches.
- Bind off all stitches in pattern.
- Weave in any loose ends, block the jumper if desired, and it’s ready to wear!
Back

The back of the fisherman’s rib jumper is knitted in a simple ribbing pattern, alternating knit and purl stitches. The ribbing provides the jumper with a stretchy and textured fabric, perfect for keeping warmth during colder days.
For the back, cast on the required number of stitches based on your desired size. Begin with a few rows of ribbing, knitting the knit stitches and purling the purl stitches. Once the ribbing is complete, continue with the fisherman’s rib pattern.
To knit the fisherman’s rib pattern for the back, knit the first stitch and then purl the next stitch. Repeat this pattern across the row. On the following row, knit the purl stitches and purl the knit stitches. Repeat these two rows until the desired length is reached.
The fisherman’s rib pattern creates a textured fabric with a lot of stretch, so it is important to take this into account when determining the length of the back. The ribbing at the beginning of the back and the ribbing at the end should match the ribbing on the front to ensure a cohesive look.
Once the desired length is reached, finish the back by knitting a few more rows of ribbing to match the ribbing at the beginning. Bind off the stitches and weave in any loose ends. The back is now complete and ready to be joined with the front and sleeves to complete the fisherman’s rib jumper.
Front

The front panel of the ladies fisherman rib jumper is worked in the same way as the back panel. It is knitted from the bottom up, starting with the ribbed hem and continuing with the fisherman rib pattern. The front panel is divided into three sections: the right side, the center, and the left side.
To begin, cast on the required number of stitches for the chosen size and work the ribbed hem for the desired length. This is usually around 2 inches, but you can adjust it according to your preference. The ribbed hem is worked in a 2×2 rib stitch, alternating knit and purl stitches.
Right Side

Once the ribbed hem is completed, you will start the fisherman rib pattern. On the right side, you will work the first pattern repeat. This usually consists of a few rows of ribbing followed by the fisherman rib pattern. The fisherman rib pattern is worked by knitting into the stitch below instead of the usual stitch on the needle. This creates a dense, textured fabric.
You will continue working the fisherman rib pattern on the right side until you reach the desired length for the armhole shaping. This length will vary depending on the size and style of the jumper. Once you reach the armhole shaping, you will begin decreasing stitches at the sides to create the shaping.
Center
The center section of the front panel is worked in the same fisherman rib pattern as the right side. However, you will not be decreasing any stitches in this section. You will continue working in the fisherman rib pattern until you reach the same length as the right side.
Left Side
The left side of the front panel is a mirror image of the right side. You will work the fisherman rib pattern in the same way as the right side, but instead of decreasing stitches, you will be increasing stitches to match the shaping of the right side.
Once all three sections of the front panel are completed, you will join them together by sewing the side seams. The front panel is now ready to be joined with the back panel and the sleeves to complete the jumper.
Sleeves
The sleeves of the fisherman’s rib jumper pattern are an essential part of the design. They are knit separately and then attached to the body of the jumper. The pattern provides instructions for both short sleeves and long sleeves, allowing you to customize the length to your preference.
When knitting the sleeves, it is important to pay attention to the stitch pattern to maintain the fisherman’s rib texture. The pattern typically calls for using the same needles and yarn as the body of the jumper. You will need to follow the pattern instructions to cast on the required number of stitches and work the ribbing and main body of the sleeve. The pattern may also include instructions for shaping the sleeve by increasing or decreasing stitches.
To attach the sleeves to the body of the jumper, you will need to sew them in place using a yarn needle. It is important to align the shoulder seams and match the stitches of the sleeve with the corresponding stitches on the body. This ensures a seamless and professional finish.
Once the sleeves are attached, you can finish the cuff by working a few rounds of ribbing in the same stitch pattern as the rest of the jumper. This helps to create a cohesive and polished look. If desired, you can also add any additional embellishments or details to the sleeves, such as buttons or decorative stitches.
Neckband
The neckband is an important component of the fisherman’s rib jumper, as it helps to frame the face and provide a comfortable fit around the neck. It is knitted separately from the main body of the jumper and then sewn on. The neckband is typically knitted in a rib pattern, which adds elasticity and ensures a snug fit.
To start knitting the neckband, cast on the required number of stitches using the same yarn and needle size as the main body of the jumper. The number of stitches will depend on the size and desired width of the neckband. It is recommended to include a few extra stitches for seaming purposes.
The neckband is usually worked in a rib pattern, such as k1, p1 rib or k2, p2 rib. This creates a stretchy and flexible edge. The rib pattern is repeated for the desired length of the neckband, typically around 2-3 inches. It is important to maintain an even tension while knitting the neckband to ensure a consistent and professional finish.
Once the neckband is complete, it is carefully sewn onto the neckline of the jumper using a tapestry needle and matching yarn. The neckband should be evenly distributed around the neckline, with the seam at the back of the neck hidden from view. Take care to align the rib pattern and maintain the correct tension while sewing to achieve a seamless and polished look.
The neckbands can also be customized by incorporating different stitch patterns or adding decorative elements, such as buttons or lace. This can create a unique and personalized touch to the fisherman’s rib jumper, making it even more special.
Finishing
After completing all the knitting, it’s time to finish the fisherman’s rib jumper. Here are the final steps to make your jumper look polished and professional.
1. Sewing the pieces together

Using a tapestry needle and the same yarn you used for knitting your jumper, sew the front and back pieces together at the shoulders. Then, sew the sleeves onto the body, aligning the seams. Make sure to sew neatly and securely to ensure durability and a clean finish.
2. Adding the collar and cuffs

To create the collar, pick up stitches along the neckline using a knitting needle a size smaller than the one you used for the jumper. Knit a few rows in a rib stitch pattern (knit 1, purl 1) to create a stretchy and snug collar. For the cuffs, pick up stitches along the edge of each sleeve and knit a few rows in rib stitch as well.
3. Weaving in loose ends

Throughout the knitting process, you may have left some loose ends of yarn. Use a tapestry needle to weave these ends into the fabric, making sure they are secure and not visible on the right side of the jumper.
4. Blocking

To give your fisherman’s rib jumper a professional finish, block it. Wet the jumper and gently squeeze out the excess water. Lay it flat on a clean towel and gently shape it, pinning the edges down if needed. Leave it to dry completely. Blocking will help even out the stitches and give your jumper a polished look.
Congratulations! You have now completed your fisherman’s rib jumper. It’s ready to be worn and enjoyed for many seasons to come. The intricate fisherman’s rib pattern and the cozy warmth of the jumper make it a versatile and stylish addition to your wardrobe.