Cardigans in Hayfield Baby Sparkle DK - 4538 - Downloadable PDF

Cardigans in Hayfield Baby Sparkle DK – Pattern 4538: Detailed Summary

This downloadable PDF knitting pattern from Hayfield presents two charming baby and children's cardigans worked in Hayfield Baby Sparkle DK yarn. Designed to fit sizes from birth to 7 years, both garments share the same construction framework but differ in their neckline finish — one features a classic round neck and the other a cosy collar. The pattern is ideal for knitters looking to create a handmade gift or wardrobe staple for a young child, combining a subtle sparkle yarn with timeless cable detailing.

Designs Included

Cardigan with Round Neck

The first design is a neat, classic cardigan finished with a round neckline. It is worked in Hayfield Baby Sparkle DK shade 601 and requires 1 to 3 x 100g balls depending on the size being made. The round neck finish gives this cardigan a clean, traditional look that suits both boys and girls and works well for everyday wear or special occasions.

Cardigan with Collar

The second design features a collar neckline, adding a touch of extra warmth and a slightly more formal, vintage-inspired finish. It is worked in Hayfield Baby Sparkle DK shade 602 and requires 2 to 4 x 100g balls depending on the size. The collar makes this version particularly well suited to cooler weather or smarter outfits.

Sizing and Measurements

Both cardigans are available in six sizes to fit the following age ranges and chest measurements:

• 0–6 months – to fit 41 cm (16 in) chest; actual measurement 45 cm (17¾ in)
• 6–12 months – to fit 46 cm (18 in) chest; actual measurement 50 cm (19¾ in)
• 1–2 years – to fit 51 cm (20 in) chest; actual measurement 55 cm (21¾ in)
• 2–3 years – to fit 56 cm (22 in) chest; actual measurement 60 cm (23¾ in)
• 4–5 years – to fit 61 cm (24 in) chest; actual measurement 65 cm (25½ in)
• 6–7 years – to fit 66 cm (26 in) chest; actual measurement 70 cm (27½ in)

Full lengths range from 24 cm to 48 cm (9½ in to 19 in), and sleeve lengths range from 15 cm to 33 cm (6 in to 13 in), noted as adjustable to allow for individual preference.

Yarn and Materials

Both cardigans are knitted in Hayfield Baby Sparkle DK, a DK weight yarn that incorporates a gentle sparkle or glitter effect, making it particularly popular for baby and children's knitwear. The yarn is available in the two shades specified — shade 601 for the round neck version and shade 602 for the collar version — and comes in 100g balls.

The following materials are required for both cardigans:

• 1 pair of 4mm (UK8 / USA6) knitting needles — used for the main body and sleeves
• 1 pair of 3¼mm (UK10 / USA3) knitting needles — used for ribbing and borders
• A cable needle — required for working the cable panel stitches
• 5 or 7 buttons per cardigan, depending on the size (5 buttons for the two smallest sizes; 7 buttons for the four larger sizes)

Tension

Achieving the correct tension is essential for both garments to come out at the stated measurements. The pattern specifies:

• 22 stitches and 28 rows to 10 cm (4 in