Children’s Hoodies in Stylecraft Bambino DK - 9529 - Downloadable PDF

Children's Hoodies in Stylecraft Bambino DK – Pattern 9529: Knitting Pattern Summary

This downloadable PDF knitting pattern from Stylecraft, reference 9529, provides instructions for two charming children's hooded cardigans — a Girls' Hoodie and a Boys' Hoodie — both worked in Bambino DK yarn. The pattern is rated intermediate in difficulty and covers five sizes, fitting children from birth through 5 years, with chest measurements ranging from 41 cm (16 in) to 61 cm (24 in).

About the Two Designs

Although the two hoodies share the same construction method and stitch pattern, they differ in colourway, button count, and finished length, giving each design its own distinct character suited to its intended wearer.

• Girls' Hoodie: Worked in Vintage Blue 7116, this version has a shorter body length — ranging from 24 cm (9½ in) for the smallest size up to 42 cm (16½ in) for the largest — and is fastened with 5 to 9 buttons depending on size.
• Boys' Hoodie: Worked in Grey Mist 7115, this version features a longer body — from 30 cm (11¾ in) to 48 cm (19 in) — and uses 7 to 9 buttons depending on size.

Sizing and Measurements

• Ages covered: 0–6 months, 6–12 months, 12–24 months, 2–3 years, 4–5 years
• Actual chest measurements: 48 cm / 54 cm / 59 cm / 63 cm / 68 cm (19 in to 26¾ in)
• Sleeve length: 12 cm to 26 cm (4¾ in to 10¼ in), noted as adjustable

Yarn and Materials

The primary yarn specified is Stylecraft Bambino DK, a soft double knitting weight yarn sold in 100g balls. The quantity required ranges from 2 balls for the smallest sizes up to 4 balls for the largest sizes, for both the Girls' and Boys' versions.

The pattern also lists several alternative yarns that can be substituted, including Wondersoft Stardust DK, Special for Babies DK, and Wondersoft DK. Knitters are advised to check meterage carefully when substituting, as ball quantities may vary.

In addition to yarn, you will need:

• One pair of 3¼ mm (UK 10 / USA 3) knitting needles — used for the ribbed welts and borders
• One pair of 4 mm (UK 8 / USA 6) knitting needles — used for the main body fabric
• 5 to 9 buttons depending on the design and size chosen

Techniques and Construction

Both hoodies are knitted flat in separate pieces — back, fronts, sleeves, and hood — and then seamed together, a classic construction method well suited to intermediate knitters building confidence with garment shaping. The pattern uses the thumb method cast-on to begin each piece.

Shaping is worked throughout, including shoulder cast-offs and decreases to form the hood and neckline. Sleeves are set in and the finished garment features a button band opening at the front.

Stitches Used

The pattern employs a small but well-chosen selection of stitches that combine texture with visual interest:

• 2x2 Rib (k2, p2 rib): Used for the welts and cuffs to create a neat, elasticated edge. Worked over the initial rows on the smaller 3¼ mm needles, this classic ribbing draws