The Sideways Jersey

Every knitted garment tells a story.

It begins with a ball of yarn and a pair of needles, but it becomes something much more… warmth for a newborn, comfort for a mother, and a tangible reminder that someone cares!

Whether you’re an experienced knitter looking for your next project or a confident beginner wanting to try something new, this free baby knitting pattern offers the opportunity to create beautiful handmade baby clothing that can be treasured for years to come.

At Thula Baba Project, we see firsthand how knitting for babies can make a meaningful difference. A lovingly knitted jersey provides warmth and comfort, but it also carries a message of dignity, kindness, and community support for vulnerable families.

We hope you’ll enjoy making this special baby jersey and become part of the story that every stitch helps tell.

Needed:
WOOL: Thick Chick (2 skeins)
NEEDLES: Size 5 needles

This is an easy pattern to adjust. Keep in mind that thinner wool and smaller needles will create a smaller size.

Cast on 19 stitches (sleeve)
Knit 52 rows in garter stitch
Cast on 32 stitches at end of the row (body)
Knit in stocking stitch for 10 rows (keeping 6 sts on each end in garter stitch as a border.)
Change to Garter stitch and work 12 rows
Change to stocking stich and work 10 rows
Change to Garter stitch and work 12 rows
Change to stocking stich and work 10 rows
Change to Garter stitch and work 12 rows
Change to stocking stich and work 10 rows
Cast off 32 stitches (the other sleeve)
Knit 52 rows in garter stitch.
Cast off

Make a second piece to correspond with the first
Join sides and sleeves and shoulders – leaving an opening for the neck. (at least 18 cm for a newborn baby head)

Variations:
Can also be adapted by knitting more rows in Garter stitch for the sleeve and adding more stitches when casting on for the body. Pick up stitches around lower edge, neck and sleeves and knit a few rows of ribbing.
Reverse garter and stocking stitch in the body.