There is something about casting on for a Christmas knit on a quiet autumn evening that feels like the season properly beginning. This is that pattern. Humphrey is a baby snowman jumper worked in soft, squishy DK yarn that is gentle against little skin and easy to care for, because no one needs a hand-wash-only Christmas jumper on a busy December morning.

He arrives complete with his own top hat, a cosy scarf, and a little carrot nose, all knitted separately and sewn on to bring him to life. Humphrey is worked in intarsia from a chart, with basic shapes in a single contrast colour. If you have been meaning to try intarsia, this is the one to start with.

The pattern is clearly written and easy to follow, with a full-size chart included for all five sizes. It knits up quickly and is as satisfying to give as it is to make.

Designed by Jane Burns, with 18 years of experience creating exclusive baby and children’s knitting patterns.

Sizes: 0-6 months, 6-12 months, 12-18 months, 18-24 months, 2-3 years

To fit chest: 41cm / 16in, 46cm / 18in, 51cm / 20in, 53cm / 21in, 56cm / 22in
Actual chest: 47cm / 18.5in, 53cm / 20.25in, 58cm / 23in, 62cm / 24.25in, 65cm / 25.5in
Finished length: 27cm / 10.75in, 29cm / 11.5in, 30cm / 11.75in, 32cm / 12.5in, 38cm / 15in
Sleeve length: 14.5cm / 5.75in, 18cm / 7in, 25cm / 9.75in, 30cm / 11.75in, 32cm / 12.5in

Yarn: Stylecraft Special DK, 100% Acrylic, 295m / 322y per 100g ball
Yarn A (1029 Copper): 1 ball all sizes
Yarn B (1001 White): 1 (1, 1, 1, 2) balls
Yarn C (1019 Cloud Blue): 1 (1, 2, 2, 2) balls
Yarn D (1004 Dark Brown): 1 ball all sizes

Alternative yarn: King Cole Big Value DK, 145m / 50g
Yarn A: Rust (3443) 1 (1, 1, 1, 1) ball
Yarn B: White (4020) 2 (2, 2, 2, 2) balls
Yarn C: Cornflower (4097) 2 (2, 3, 3, 4) balls
Yarn D: Brown (4025) 1 (1, 1, 1, 1) ball

Needles: Straight 3.25mm and 4mm, Circulars 3.25mm, DPNs 3.25mm

Also needed: Darning needle, stitch markers, 6 pale blue assorted buttons approx. 1.5cm, stitch holder

Skill level: Confident beginner

Gauge: 22 sts and 30 rows to 10cm / 4in over stocking stitch using 4mm needles

Your pattern is an instant PDF download. It includes written instructions and a full-size intarsia chart for all five sizes, plus instructions for all of Humphrey’s separate parts: hat, nose, arms, mittens, and scarf.

A lovely Christmas gift, or simply because every baby deserves a snowman jumper at least once.

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