How to Knit Your First Sweater | Easy Top-Down Raglan Tutorial
Hi, I’m Kim — the knitter and designer behind M1R KNIT. I teach the Norwegian knitting method through clear tutorials, modern patterns, and simple techniques designed to help you knit with more confidence and comfort.
If you’ve been wanting to knit your first sweater but have felt a little intimidated by the idea, this is a great place to start.
I’ve created a full-length top-down raglan sweater knitting tutorial that walks you through the entire process, step by step—from casting on your first stitches to weaving in your final ends.
This is a simple, cozy raglan sweater with a classic crew neck, relaxed fit, raglan sleeves, and 1x1 ribbing. It’s designed with approximately 6 inches of positive ease, giving it that comfortable, casual fit that’s perfect for fall and winter.
WATCH THE FULL SWEATER TUTORIAL BELOW ⬇️
The Basic Raglan Pullover 02 Knitting Pattern is an advanced beginner pattern for knitting a relaxed sweater featuring top-down raglan construction, a crew neckline, and long sleeves.
Smooth stockinette stitch and defined raglan lines create a simple, timeless look, finished with twisted rib at the neckline, cuffs, and hem. Approximately 6"/15 cm of positive ease gives this pullover a comfortable fit for everyday wear and layering.
The downloadable PDF includes clear written instructions, sizing and finished measurements, yarn requirements, gauge information, and technique guidance to help you complete your project.
ABOUT THE PATTERN
Basic Raglan Pullover 02 is worked from the top down in stockinette stitch. The neckline and initial raglan shaping are worked flat before joining to knit in the round.
The body and sleeves are separated at the underarms and worked individually. Twisted rib finishes the hem and cuffs, and stitches are picked up around the neckline to work the matching neckband last.
Pattern Type: Sweater / Pullover
Skill Level: Advanced Beginner
Construction: Top-down raglan; worked flat initially, then in the round
Yarn Weight: Worsted
Sizes: XS–2X
SKILL LEVEL
ADVANCED BEGINNER
The pattern include a full tutorial video here: https://youtu.be/0obQi2h-LKc
This pattern is suitable for knitters comfortable with:
Knitting and purling.
Working flat and in the round.
Working raglan increases.
Picking up stitches.
Basic garment shaping.
Following detailed written instructions.
SIZES + FINISHED MEASUREMENTS
Sizes Included:
XS (S, M, L, XL, 2X)
Designed to Fit Bust Circumference:
30 (34.5, 38, 41, 45.5, 48)" / 76 (87.5, 96.5, 104, 115.5, 122) cm
Finished Bust Circumference:
36 (40.5, 44, 47, 51.5, 54)" / 91.5 (103, 112, 119.5, 131, 137) cm
Finished Full Length:
22.5 (23, 23.5, 23.5, 24, 24)" / 57 (58.5, 59.5, 59.5, 61, 61) cm
Sleeve Length from Underarm, Including Cuff:
18"/45.5 cm in all sizes.
Recommended Ease:
Approximately 6"/15 cm of positive ease.
Choose your size by comparing your bust measurement with the finished sweater measurements and allowing for your preferred fit. Additional measurements are included in the pattern schematic.
YARN + GAUGE
Suggested Yarn:
Lion Brand Wool-Ease in Linen
180 metres per 85 g ball
Yarn Weight:
Worsted
Approximate Yarn Requirements:
XS: 1,039 yards / 950 metres — 6 balls.
S: 1,176 yards / 1,075 metres — 6 balls.
M: 1,264 yards / 1,156 metres — 7 balls.
L: 1,373 yards / 1,255 metres — 7 balls.
XL: 1,531 yards / 1,400 metres — 8 balls.
2X: 1,619 yards / 1,480 metres — 9 balls.
Ball quantities refer to the suggested yarn.
Gauge:
18 stitches × 24 rounds = 4"/10 cm in stockinette stitch, washed and blocked.
Suggested Needles:
5 mm / US 8 for stockinette, or size needed to obtain gauge.
4 mm / US 6 for ribbing.
Circular needles: 16"/40 cm for the collar and 32"/80 cm to 40"/100 cm for the body.
A suitable circular needle for working the sleeves using magic loop or your preferred small-circumference method.
The pattern includes swatching guidance for knitting flat, knitting the body in the round, and knitting the sleeves. Different needle sizes may be needed to maintain gauge in each area.
Notions:
Yarn needle.
Stitch markers.
Stitch holders or waste yarn.
Full yarn, needle, gauge, and notion information is included in the PDF pattern.
CONSTRUCTION + TECHNIQUES
This pattern includes the following techniques:
Stockinette stitch worked flat and in the round.
Neckline shaping with additional cast-on stitches.
M1R and M1L raglan increases.
M1RP and M1LP purl-side increases where required for the size.
Separating the body and sleeves.
Casting on underarm stitches.
Picking up stitches for the sleeves and neckband.
K2tog and SSK sleeve decreases.
1×1 twisted rib.
Stretchy bind-off.
Weaving in ends and blocking.
NORWEGIAN KNITTING TUTORIALS
M1R KNIT specializes in teaching the Norwegian knitting method, a continental-style knitting technique with the working yarn held in the left hand.
You do not need to use the Norwegian knitting method to make this pattern.
The pattern includes links to helpful M1R KNIT technique tutorials, including raglan increases and the Ruke bind-off.
Learn the Norwegian knitting method here: https://m1rknit.com/tutorials/norwegian-knitting-method-for-beginners-learn-to-knit-step-by-step
This pattern includes a full tutorial video here: https://youtu.be/0obQi2h-LKc
WHAT’S INCLUDED
✔ Complete downloadable PDF knitting pattern
✔ Step-by-step written instructions
✔ Size-specific neckline and raglan shaping instructions
✔ Sizing and finished measurements
✔ Yarn requirements
✔ Needle and notion information
✔ Gauge information and swatching guidance
✔ Pattern abbreviations and technique notes
✔ Measurement schematic
✔ Links to helpful M1R KNIT technique tutorials
✔ Original M1R KNIT design
DIGITAL DOWNLOAD
This listing is for a DIGITAL PDF KNITTING PATTERN ONLY.
No physical product or finished knitted item will be shipped.
Your pattern will be available for digital download after purchase.
USAGE + COPYRIGHT
For personal, non-commercial use only.
Items made from this pattern may not be sold.
Pattern may not be shared, copied, or redistributed.
© M1R KNIT. All Rights Reserved.
PATTERN SUPPORT
Questions while knitting? I’m happy to help.
Find more knitting patterns, tutorials, and technique guides from M1R KNIT:
Website: M1RKNIT.com
YouTube: @m1rknit
Instagram: @m1rknit
Ravelry: M1R KNIT
SHARE YOUR PROJECT
I’d love to see what you make.
Tag @m1rknit when sharing your finished M1R KNIT project.
Knit Your First Top-Down Raglan Sweater
One of the things I love about a top-down raglan sweater is that you build the sweater as you go.
We begin at the neckline, shape the raglan using increases, join the sweater to work in the round, separate the sleeves from the body, and then continue knitting downward.
If you’ve never knit a garment before, I know some of those steps can sound complicated. That’s exactly why I created the video.
Instead of simply showing you the finished sweater, I take you through the techniques you’ll actually need while you're knitting it.
In the tutorial, you’ll learn how to:
Cast on and set up your raglan sweater
Work raglan increases using M1R and M1L
Knit and purl using the Norwegian knitting method
Add stitches using the knitted cast-on
Join your sweater for knitting in the round
Divide the body and sleeves
Place your sleeve stitches on hold
Knit the sweater body
Work a clean 1x1 twisted rib
Pick up and knit stitches around the neckline
Pick up stitches at the underarm
Reduce those pesky little underarm holes
Shape your sleeves with decreases
Knit small circumferences using magic loop
Work a stretchy sewn bind-off
Weave in your ends and finish your sweater
WATCH THE STEP-BY-STEP TUTORIAL →
Follow Along With the Knitting Pattern
The video is designed to be used alongside the written pattern.
The pattern gives you the stitch counts, measurements, sizing, increase instructions, sleeve shaping, and everything else you need for the size you’re knitting, while the video gives you the visual guidance for each technique.
That means you don’t have to try to memorize everything from the video or constantly guess what comes next.
Grab your pattern, choose your size, and knit along with me.
Learn the Norwegian Knitting Method While You Knit
If you’re familiar with M1R KNIT, you already know that I teach using the Norwegian knitting method.
The working yarn stays in the left hand, and the Norwegian purl allows you to purl without bringing the yarn to the front of your work.
I use the Norwegian method throughout this sweater tutorial, including the Norwegian purl, so you can see how I actually use the technique while knitting a full garment rather than only practicing it on a small swatch.
If the Norwegian method is new to you, don’t worry. I also have beginner tutorials on my YouTube channel where you can slow everything down and practice the individual stitches before coming back to your sweater.
A Few Sweater-Knitting Tips for Beginners
Your first sweater does not need to be perfect.
One of the biggest things I talk about throughout the tutorial is tension. Your tension can change when you move from knitting flat to knitting in the round, and it can change again when you start knitting a smaller circumference such as a sleeve.
Pay attention to your fabric as you knit.
If your stitches suddenly become noticeably tighter, you may need to adjust your needle size to maintain the same gauge.
And please—knit a gauge swatch before you begin.
Gauge matters much more when you’re knitting something that needs to fit your body than it does when you’re making something like a scarf or blanket.
Ready to Knit Your First Sweater?
There is something pretty special about putting on a sweater and realizing that you made the entire thing yourself.
And if this is your first one, I hope the combination of the written pattern and full video tutorial makes the process feel much less intimidating.
You don’t have to understand every step before you begin.
Start with the cast-on.
Then knit the next row.
And we’ll work through the rest together.
Happy knitting,
Kim
M1R KNIT | Make One Right Knit
I teach beginners how to knit using the Norwegian knitting method.
Enjoying the tutorials? You can support the channel by buying me a coffee ☕Yarn used in this tutorial and pattern can be purchased here: https://lionbrand.sjv.io/B5doOB
The Basic Raglan Pullover 02 Knitting Pattern is an advanced beginner pattern for knitting a relaxed sweater featuring top-down raglan construction, a crew neckline, and long sleeves.
Smooth stockinette stitch and defined raglan lines create a simple, timeless look, finished with twisted rib at the neckline, cuffs, and hem. Approximately 6"/15 cm of positive ease gives this pullover a comfortable fit for everyday wear and layering.
The downloadable PDF includes clear written instructions, sizing and finished measurements, yarn requirements, gauge information, and technique guidance to help you complete your project.
ABOUT THE PATTERN
Basic Raglan Pullover 02 is worked from the top down in stockinette stitch. The neckline and initial raglan shaping are worked flat before joining to knit in the round.
The body and sleeves are separated at the underarms and worked individually. Twisted rib finishes the hem and cuffs, and stitches are picked up around the neckline to work the matching neckband last.
Pattern Type: Sweater / Pullover
Skill Level: Advanced Beginner
Construction: Top-down raglan; worked flat initially, then in the round
Yarn Weight: Worsted
Sizes: XS–2X
SKILL LEVEL
ADVANCED BEGINNER
The pattern include a full tutorial video here: https://youtu.be/0obQi2h-LKc
This pattern is suitable for knitters comfortable with:
Knitting and purling.
Working flat and in the round.
Working raglan increases.
Picking up stitches.
Basic garment shaping.
Following detailed written instructions.
SIZES + FINISHED MEASUREMENTS
Sizes Included:
XS (S, M, L, XL, 2X)
Designed to Fit Bust Circumference:
30 (34.5, 38, 41, 45.5, 48)" / 76 (87.5, 96.5, 104, 115.5, 122) cm
Finished Bust Circumference:
36 (40.5, 44, 47, 51.5, 54)" / 91.5 (103, 112, 119.5, 131, 137) cm
Finished Full Length:
22.5 (23, 23.5, 23.5, 24, 24)" / 57 (58.5, 59.5, 59.5, 61, 61) cm
Sleeve Length from Underarm, Including Cuff:
18"/45.5 cm in all sizes.
Recommended Ease:
Approximately 6"/15 cm of positive ease.
Choose your size by comparing your bust measurement with the finished sweater measurements and allowing for your preferred fit. Additional measurements are included in the pattern schematic.
YARN + GAUGE
Suggested Yarn:
Lion Brand Wool-Ease in Linen
180 metres per 85 g ball
Yarn Weight:
Worsted
Approximate Yarn Requirements:
XS: 1,039 yards / 950 metres — 6 balls.
S: 1,176 yards / 1,075 metres — 6 balls.
M: 1,264 yards / 1,156 metres — 7 balls.
L: 1,373 yards / 1,255 metres — 7 balls.
XL: 1,531 yards / 1,400 metres — 8 balls.
2X: 1,619 yards / 1,480 metres — 9 balls.
Ball quantities refer to the suggested yarn.
Gauge:
18 stitches × 24 rounds = 4"/10 cm in stockinette stitch, washed and blocked.
Suggested Needles:
5 mm / US 8 for stockinette, or size needed to obtain gauge.
4 mm / US 6 for ribbing.
Circular needles: 16"/40 cm for the collar and 32"/80 cm to 40"/100 cm for the body.
A suitable circular needle for working the sleeves using magic loop or your preferred small-circumference method.
The pattern includes swatching guidance for knitting flat, knitting the body in the round, and knitting the sleeves. Different needle sizes may be needed to maintain gauge in each area.
Notions:
Yarn needle.
Stitch markers.
Stitch holders or waste yarn.
Full yarn, needle, gauge, and notion information is included in the PDF pattern.
CONSTRUCTION + TECHNIQUES
This pattern includes the following techniques:
Stockinette stitch worked flat and in the round.
Neckline shaping with additional cast-on stitches.
M1R and M1L raglan increases.
M1RP and M1LP purl-side increases where required for the size.
Separating the body and sleeves.
Casting on underarm stitches.
Picking up stitches for the sleeves and neckband.
K2tog and SSK sleeve decreases.
1×1 twisted rib.
Stretchy bind-off.
Weaving in ends and blocking.
NORWEGIAN KNITTING TUTORIALS
M1R KNIT specializes in teaching the Norwegian knitting method, a continental-style knitting technique with the working yarn held in the left hand.
You do not need to use the Norwegian knitting method to make this pattern.
The pattern includes links to helpful M1R KNIT technique tutorials, including raglan increases and the Ruke bind-off.
Learn the Norwegian knitting method here: https://m1rknit.com/tutorials/norwegian-knitting-method-for-beginners-learn-to-knit-step-by-step
This pattern includes a full tutorial video here: https://youtu.be/0obQi2h-LKc
WHAT’S INCLUDED
✔ Complete downloadable PDF knitting pattern
✔ Step-by-step written instructions
✔ Size-specific neckline and raglan shaping instructions
✔ Sizing and finished measurements
✔ Yarn requirements
✔ Needle and notion information
✔ Gauge information and swatching guidance
✔ Pattern abbreviations and technique notes
✔ Measurement schematic
✔ Links to helpful M1R KNIT technique tutorials
✔ Original M1R KNIT design
DIGITAL DOWNLOAD
This listing is for a DIGITAL PDF KNITTING PATTERN ONLY.
No physical product or finished knitted item will be shipped.
Your pattern will be available for digital download after purchase.
USAGE + COPYRIGHT
For personal, non-commercial use only.
Items made from this pattern may not be sold.
Pattern may not be shared, copied, or redistributed.
© M1R KNIT. All Rights Reserved.
PATTERN SUPPORT
Questions while knitting? I’m happy to help.
Find more knitting patterns, tutorials, and technique guides from M1R KNIT:
Website: M1RKNIT.com
YouTube: @m1rknit
Instagram: @m1rknit
Ravelry: M1R KNIT
SHARE YOUR PROJECT
I’d love to see what you make.
Tag @m1rknit when sharing your finished M1R KNIT project.