Blanket, Sweater, Jackets and Hat Knitted in King Cole DK - 5704 - Downloadable PDF

Blanket, Sweater, Jackets and Hat Knitted in King Cole DK – Pattern 5704

This downloadable PDF from King Cole (pattern number 5704) is a versatile multi-project knitting pattern designed for babies and young children, covering sizes 31–51 cm (12–20 inches). The collection includes four distinct makes: a blanket, a sweater, jackets, and a hat. Rated at an intermediate difficulty level, this pattern is well suited to knitters who are comfortable with basic shaping and simple stitch patterns and are ready to take on a small coordinated wardrobe of baby knitwear.

Materials and Tension

All pieces in this collection are worked in King Cole DK (double knitting weight) yarn. Two needle sizes are called for depending on the stitch pattern being used:

• 4.5mm needles – used for the main textured pattern stitch, achieving a tension of 24 stitches and 32 rows to 10 cm (4 inches).
• 4mm needles – used for stocking stitch sections, achieving a tension of 22 stitches and 28 rows to 10 cm (4 inches).

As with all knitting projects, checking tension before beginning is strongly recommended. Knitting a tension square allows you to confirm your stitch and row count matches the pattern's stated gauge. If your swatch shows fewer stitches or rows than stated, switch to finer needles; if it shows more, move to larger needles. Correct tension is especially important in garments for babies and children, where fit and sizing are critical.

Techniques and Construction

The pattern draws on a range of classic knitting techniques appropriate for the intermediate knitter. Construction follows traditional flat knitting methods, with pieces worked back and forth on straight needles and seamed together on completion.

Stitches Used

• Stocking stitch (st-st) – the most widely used stitch in the collection, worked with knit stitches on the right side and purl stitches on the wrong side, creating a smooth, classic fabric ideal for garment bodies and sleeves.
• Garter stitch (gst) – every row knitted, producing a ridged, reversible fabric with natural elasticity. Commonly used for borders, hems, and the blanket.
• Pattern stitch (patt) – a textured stitch pattern worked on 4.5mm needles, adding visual interest to the designs beyond plain stocking stitch.

Shaping Techniques

• Increasing (inc) – used to add stitches and shape sleeves, necklines, and other areas requiring widening.
• Decreasing (dec) – used to reduce stitch counts for armholes, necklines, crown shaping on the hat, and other tapered sections.
• Pass slipped stitch over (psso) – a specific decrease method that creates a neat, directional reduction, often used in neckline or raglan shaping.
• Yarn round needle (yrn) – used to create a decorative eyelet or to work increases in lace-style details.
• Slipping stitches (sl) – stitches passed from one needle to the other without working, used in shaping and decorative techniques.

The Blanket

The blanket is a straightforward yet satisfying project within this collection, making excellent use of garter stitch and the pattern stitch to create a soft, textured fabric suitable for a baby's cot or pram. Blankets of this type are typically worked in one or more panels and provide a wonderful opportunity to practise stitch consistency across a larger surface area. The King Cole DK yarn gives the blanket a comfortable weight and drape, while remaining machine-washable and practical for everyday baby use.

The Sweater

The sweater is designed to fit chest sizes from 31 to 51 cm (12 to 20 inches), covering a range of baby and toddler ages. It is constructed using stocking stitch for the