Rose Button Cardigan

Rose Button Cardigan by Jamie Kreitman

What is Being Made

The Rose Button Cardigan is a charming baby cardigan sweater designed for infants in sizes 6 (12, 18, 24) months with finished chest measurements of 10.25" (11.75", 12.5", 13.75"). This knitted cardigan features decorative rose embellishments and button closures, making it an elegant piece for babies. The design is a collaboration between NY Fashion Designer Jamie Kreitman and renowned children's wear designer Ruth Hornbein, originally sold in prestigious retailers including Bergdorf Goodman, Saks Fifth Avenue, and Barneys.

Techniques Used

This cardigan employs multiple knitting techniques to create its distinctive design. The main body is worked using a straightforward knitting method with two strands of yarn held together for texture and warmth. The pattern incorporates the creation of three-dimensional rose decorations that are knitted separately and then attached to the finished cardigan. Leaf elements are also hand-knitted as separate components to complement the rose details. The construction involves gauge-specific shaping to achieve proper fit across the range of baby sizes, and finishing techniques include seaming, button attachment with a sewing needle, and secure fastening of the decorative floral elements.

Stitches Used

While specific stitch abbreviations are not detailed in the pattern excerpt provided, the Rose Button Cardigan utilizes fundamental knitting stitches appropriate for beginner-to-intermediate knitters. The roses and leaves are created using basic knitting techniques worked on smaller needles to create delicate, dimensional details that contrast with the main body of the sweater.

Materials

• Main Yarn: Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton in black or any color choice – 3 (4, 5, 6) balls, with each ball containing 3.5 oz and 186 yards (170 meters). The yarn is worked with two strands held together throughout the main body.
• Rose Trim Yarn: Galler Belangor Angora in Fuschia or any other color – 0.21 oz (6 grams) for creating the decorative rose elements
• Leaf Trim Yarn: Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton in Grass color – 1 strand, 0.5 oz (14 grams) for knitting the leaf accents
• Needles: Size 15 needles (10mm) for the main body, or size as needed to obtain proper gauge; Size 6 needles (4mm) for roses; Size 5 needles (3.5mm) for leaves
• Notions: Three 1/2" (38mm) buttons, large-eyed blunt needle for finishing, sewing needle for button attachment, and a stitch holder

Skill Level and Gauge

The Rose Button Cardigan is rated as Intermediate Beginner difficulty, making it accessible to knitters with some foundational experience who are ready to tackle slightly more complex projects. The pattern requires achieving a specific gauge of 11 stitches (exact gauge measurement unit not specified in excerpt) to ensure proper sizing across all four baby sizes. Knitters should swatch and adjust needle size as needed to match this gauge before beginning the main sweater body.