BABY Tea Leaves

Baby Tea Leaves Cardigan by Melissa LaBarre

What Is Being Made

The Baby Tea Leaves Cardigan is a miniature version of the Tea Leaves Cardigan design, created specifically for infants in four size options: 0-6 months, 6-12 months, 12-18 months, and 18-24 months. This knitted cardigan features a chest measurement of 18 (19, 20, 21) inches and is designed with a sweet ruched yoke detail and three-quarter length sleeves, making it an elegant and practical garment for babies.

Knitting Techniques Used

This intermediate-level knitting project employs several key techniques to create its distinctive construction. The cardigan begins with a yoke-down construction method, which allows for seamless shaping from the neckline downward. The pattern utilizes the long-tail cast-on method to begin the project and incorporates a ruching technique in the yoke area, created through strategic increases. The design uses the kf/b (knit front and back) increase method to create the necessary shaping across the yoke rows, which produces the characteristic ruched texture.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The primary stitch used throughout this cardigan is stockinette stitch, which creates a smooth, classic fabric surface. The pattern also incorporates garter stitch in the initial rows, providing a textured edge at the cast-on. Increases using the kf/b method are strategically placed to shape the yoke and create the ruched detail that defines this design. The gauge for this project is 24 stitches and 32 rows over 4 inches in stockinette stitch on the larger needles, which is essential for achieving proper fit across the four size options.

Yarn and Materials

This pattern calls for Madelinetosh Pashmina yarn in sport-weight, with only 1 skein (360 yards) required to complete the cardigan in any of the four infant sizes. Sport-weight yarn is a lightweight option ideal for delicate baby garments, providing softness and breathability.

The needles required include:

• 1 US 5 (3.75mm) 29-inch circular needle (larger needle)
• 1 US 3 (3.25mm) 29-inch circular needle (smaller needle)
• 1 set of US 5 (3.75mm) double-pointed needles

Additional notions include a blunt needle for weaving in ends, 2 lengths of scrap yarn (used for stitch markers or holders), and 2 buttons measuring 3/4 inch for the cardigan closure. Needle sizes may be adjusted as needed to obtain the specified gauge.

Design Details

The yoke-down construction begins with casting on 64 (66, 68, 70) stitches using the smaller circular needle and the long-tail method. The first five rows are worked in garter stitch before transitioning to the larger needle and beginning the yoke shaping with increases. This construction method allows for seamless, custom-fitted shaping and eliminates the need for seaming, which is particularly advantageous for delicate baby garments. The three-quarter length sleeves provide practical coverage while maintaining a sweet, proportionate appearance on infant wearers.