New Zealand Merino Long Sleeve Dress Knitting Pattern (K3069)
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Girls Long Sleeve Knit Dress Pattern – DK Merino | 3 Months to 4 Years
A beautifully simple and wearable knitted dress pattern designed for comfort, movement, and everyday style. This long sleeve dress features a softly shaped bodice and a gently flared skirt, creating a timeless silhouette that’s perfect for layering across seasons.
Worked in soft DK merino yarn, the fabric is breathable, lightweight, and gentle against the skin—ideal for active little ones. The top-down construction allows for a smooth finish and easy adjustment, while the subtle texture of stocking stitch lets variegated yarns shine.
Why You’ll Love This Pattern
- Classic long sleeve dress with a comfortable, relaxed fit
- Top-down construction for a seamless, polished finish
- Soft merino yarn – breathable, warm, and gentle on skin
- Perfect for showcasing variegated or hand-dyed yarns
- Ideal for everyday wear, layering, or special handmade gifts
Sizes
- 3–6 months
- 6–12 months
- 12–18 months
- 18–24 months
- 2 years
- 3 years
- 4 years
Finished Measurements
| Size | Chest (cm) | Dress Length (cm) | Sleeve Length (cm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3–6 mths | 45 | 19 | 16 |
| 6–12 mths | 48 | 20 | 20 |
| 12–18 mths | 52 | 22 | 22 |
| 18–24 mths | 55 | 25 | 24 |
| 2 yrs | 57 | 27 | 26 |
| 3 yrs | 59 | 30 | 28 |
| 4 yrs | 62 | 34 | 29 |
Measurements taken from sizing table on page 2
Yarn Requirements
| Size | Balls (50g) | Total Metres |
|---|---|---|
| 3–6 mths | 4 | 552m |
| 6–12 mths | 5 | 690m |
| 12–18 mths | 5 | 690m |
| 18–24 mths | 6 | 828m |
| 2 yrs | 6 | 828m |
| 3 yrs | 7 | 966m |
| 4 yrs | 7 | 966m |
Based on 138m per 50g ball
Yarn Details
- Weight: DK / 8 ply
- Fibre: Merino wool
- Qualities: Soft, breathable, temperature-regulating, gentle on sensitive skin
Needles & Notions
- 3.25mm circular needles (60cm cord)
- 4.00mm circular needles
- 3.25mm & 4.00mm double-pointed needles (or magic loop)
- 4 stitch markers
- Waste yarn for sleeves
- 1 button
- Tapestry needle
Tension
- 22 stitches x 30 rows = 10cm in stocking stitch
Skill Level
Intermediate
Techniques include:
- Top-down garment construction
- Knitting in the round
- Increasing (kfb)
- Basic shaping and sleeve separation
- Working with stitch markers
Design Features
This dress is worked from the top down, beginning with a structured bodice worked flat before transitioning to knitting in the round for the skirt. The gentle increases create a flattering drape, while the simple neckline with a single button closure ensures easy dressing.
The clean stocking stitch finish highlights the natural beauty of merino yarn, especially in variegated colourways, making each piece uniquely eye-catching.