Knit Your Own Joyful Moomin Sweater – Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners & Fans

Calling all Moomin lovers and cosy knitwear fans! If you're dreaming of snuggling up in a soft sweater that brings a bit of joy to your wardrobe, you're going to fall in love with this project. The Joyful Moomin Sweater is a cheerful, feel-good knit featuring a bold Moomintroll motif and sweet embroidered floral sleeves. Whether you’re an advanced beginner ready for a challenge or a confident knitter looking for something playful, this pattern is an absolute delight.

In this post, we’ll walk you through how to knit the Joyful Moomin Sweater step by step, from choosing your yarn to stitching the final French knots.

What You’ll Need

Yarn:

• Stylecraft Special DK (100% acrylic)

• 1 ball each in:

  • White (1001 – for Moomin)

  • Black (1002 – for embroidery)

  • Pink Rhubarb (2115)

  • Cinder Rose (2117)

  • Aster (1003)

  • Nigella (2179)

Needles:

• 3.25mm straight needles (for ribbing)

• 4mm straight needles (for body and sleeves)

• 4mm DPNs (optional for smaller areas)

Extras:

• Black embroidery thread

• Stitch markers

• Tapestry needle

• Stitch holders or scrap yarn

Sizing: XS to 4XL (UK sizes 6 to 32)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Start with the Back Panel

1. Cast On using 3.25mm needles and MC (main colour).

2. Work 7cm in rib stitch: Row 1 (RS): K1, P2, repeat; Row 2: P1, K2, repeat.

3. Switch to 4mm needles and begin stocking stitch (knit RS, purl WS).

4. Shape armholes by casting off the required number of stitches at the start of the next two rows. Then decrease 1 st at each end of the following rows as indicated.

5. Continue until you reach the desired length for your size.

6. Shape the shoulders and place remaining neck stitches on a holder.

2. Knit the Front – with Moomintroll!

1. Repeat ribbing and stocking stitch as for the back.

2. Begin the intarsia chart for Moomin:

   • Centre the chart on the front panel.

   • Use White for Moomin, with other colours for background and accents.

   • Use bobbins or separate balls to manage the colour changes.

3. Continue knitting and charting until the chart is complete.

4. Shape armholes and shoulders exactly as for the back.

5. Set aside stitches for the front neck shaping as instructed.

3. Knit the Sleeves

1. With 3.25mm needles and MC, cast on sleeve stitches.

2. Work 7cm in rib pattern.

3. Switch to 4mm needles and work in stocking stitch.

4. Increase 1 stitch at each end every 6th row (or as specified) to shape the sleeve.

5. Work straight until you reach the full sleeve length.

6. Shape sleeve caps by casting off and decreasing as instructed.

4. Assemble Your Sweater

1. Block each piece to measurements.

2. Sew the right shoulder seam.

3. Pick up stitches around the neckline using smaller needles and MC.

4. Work 9 rows of rib stitch for the neckband, then cast off in rib.

5. Sew the left shoulder seam, including the neckband.

6. Attach the sleeves to the armholes.

7. Sew the side and sleeve seams neatly.

5. Add the Embroidery

Now it’s time to bring your sweater to life with beautiful hand embroidery!

• Use the photo and floral diagram as a reference.

• Work couching stitch for the Moomin outline using black thread.

• Add embroidered eye, eyebrow, fingers, and feet details.

• Use French knots for flower centres and daisy chain stitch for petals.

• Keep the floral designs flowing naturally — embrace the imperfect charm.

Embroidery Dimensions

• The central vine motif is approx. 30cm tall.

• Each floral sprig is around 7cm wide.

• You can place one vine on each sleeve or customise it with more flowers.

Finishing Touches

• Weave in all loose ends.

• Give your finished sweater a gentle steam block if needed.

• Take a moment to admire your joyful creation — then wear it proudly!

The Joyful Moomin Sweater is more than just a knitting project — it’s a wearable celebration of comfort, creativity, and charm. Whether you're knitting it for yourself or a loved one, it's sure to bring smiles.

Happy knitting! 💗