Sewing with knits can sometimes be intimidating, but The Malva Sweater sewing pattern is no sweat. It’s simple design is a wardrobe staple for anyone who loves staying cozy chic, but it also comes with an easy-to-add faux layer for anyone looking to take it up a notch. Pair the simple version in one of Mood’s ultrasoft bamboo fleeces with a tank top and leggings for the ultimate gym outfit, or upgrade it with a cotton gauze or shirting for the cutest and coziest shirt for curling up by the fire with a great book!

Fabrics & materials used:

Basic:
- 2 yards Heather Lake Bamboo and Cotton Stretch Knit Fleece
Upgrade:
- 2 yards Heather Charcoal Bamboo and Coton Stretch Knit Fleece
- 1 yard Ivory Double Cotton Gauze
- 4 Ivory Plastic Buttons – 18L
MDF121 – The Malva Sweater Sewing Pattern (free download below!)

To start, both versions of this sweater go together the same way.

Begin by attaching the front and back of your sweatshirt at the shoulders, fabric faces together. Be sure to use a serger or stretch stitch like you can see in the image to the right above.

If you’re making the basic sweater, you can also sew up the sides of your garment. For the upgraded version, leave your sides open for the time being.

For both versions, create the collar of your shirt by folding it in half and sewing along the short side. Take that tube of fabric, and fold it so the wrong sides are together. Pin the faces of your collar and neckline, matching up your collar seam with the center back of your garment and sew.

Next, create the sleeves of your sweatshirt by sewing up the inseam and adding your cuffs.

If sewing a basic sweater, attach your sleeves to their respective armscye. If you’re upgrading yours, set your sleeves to the side until later.

To finish up the simple sweatshirt version, simply sew your hem bands together at the sides, fold it in half with the wrong sides together, and attach it around the bottom of your garment as you did with your collar. Voila! Easy sweater is complete!

The following few steps are for the upgraded faux shirt layer.

Fold the center front of your shirt layers up 1/2″ followed by another full inch and edge-stitch to create the button plackets.

Pin your front pieces together, overlapping the button plackets, and then pin your front hem band to the top of your shirt layer like you see in left image above. Pin and sew both layers to the bottom of the front of your sweater. Repeat with the back panel.

Insert the faux shirt side panels using French seams and your garment is nearly complete! At this stage, you can attach the sleeves that you previously set aside.

Lastly, sew 4 buttons along the faux placket, tacking the plackets together at the same time. Give the faux shirt a simple rolled hem and you new sweater is complete!