Boys V Neck Cardigan and Waistcoat in Hayfield Baby DK - 4426 - Downloadable PDF

Boys V Neck Cardigan and Waistcoat in Hayfield Baby DK – Pattern 4426

This knitting pattern from Hayfield provides instructions for two classic boyswear designs: a V neck cardigan and a V neck waistcoat, both worked in Hayfield Baby DK yarn. The pattern covers five sizes, fitting chest measurements from 46 cm (18 in) up to 66 cm (26 in), making it suitable for babies and children aged 6 months through to 7 years. Both garments share the same clean, smart aesthetic, making them ideal for everyday wear or smarter occasions.

About the Designs

Boys V Neck Cardigan

The cardigan is a traditional button-through style featuring a V neckline and set-in or structured sleeves. It is a timeless layering piece for young boys, offering both warmth and a neat, tailored appearance. The full length ranges from 28 cm (11 in) for the smallest size up to 48 cm (19 in) for the largest, with an actual chest measurement of 50 cm to 71 cm across the size range. Sleeve length is listed as adjustable, running from 17 cm (6½ in) to 33 cm (13 in), giving knitters the flexibility to customise the fit as needed.

The cardigan features a cable panel as a key design detail, adding textural interest and a classic handknit character to the front and/or body of the garment. The cable panel measures 14 stitches wide and 5 cm (2 in) at the correct tension on 4 mm needles. The button band and neckline edgings are typically worked on smaller needles to create a firm, neat finish. The cardigan fastens with 4 to 5 buttons depending on size.

Boys V Neck Waistcoat

The waistcoat is a sleeveless version that works beautifully as a standalone layer or worn over a shirt or long-sleeved top. It shares the same V neckline shaping and cable detailing as the cardigan, maintaining a coordinated look across both garments. Full length ranges from 27 cm (10¾ in) to 45 cm (17¾ in), again with actual chest measurements from 50 cm to 71 cm. Like the cardigan, it fastens with 4 to 5 buttons depending on the size being knitted.

Techniques Used

Both garments are knitted flat in separate pieces and then seamed together, which is the traditional construction method for fitted knitwear. Key techniques involved in this pattern include:

• Cable knitting – a decorative panel worked over 14 stitches forms a central feature of both garments, requiring a cable needle to cross stitches and create the twisted rope effect characteristic of classic knitwear
• V neck shaping – stitches are decreased gradually on either side of a central divide to create the angled neckline on both the cardigan and waistcoat
• Ribbing – typically used at the cast-on edges, cuffs, and button bands to create elasticated, tidy borders that hold their shape
• Stitch holder usage – stitches are placed on holders while other sections are worked, a standard technique when shaping necklines and shoulders
• Seaming – completed pieces are joined using appropriate seaming methods to finish the garments neatly
• Button band and neckband pickup – stitches are picked up along front edges and the V neckline to work the button and buttonhole bands, with the option to use a circular needle for this step if preferred

Stitches Used

• Cable stitch – the signature textured panel running through both designs
• Stocking stitch – the smooth, classic knit fabric used for the main body and sleeves
• Rib stitch – used for welts, cuffs, and front bands to provide stretch and a polished edge

Materials Required

Yarn