Cardigans in Hayfield Baby Aran - 4504 - Downloadable PDF

Hayfield Baby Aran Cardigans – Knitting Pattern 4504 for Babies and Children (Birth to 7 Years)

Pattern 4504 from Hayfield is a downloadable PDF knitting pattern featuring two classic baby and children's cardigans worked in Hayfield Baby Aran yarn: a Round Neck Cardigan and a Hooded Cardigan. Both designs are sized from birth through to 7 years, making this pattern an exceptionally versatile addition to any handknitter's collection. Whether you are knitting for a newborn gift or a growing toddler, these timeless cardigans combine traditional Aran texture with practical, comfortable construction.

Sizes and Fit

The pattern covers six sizes based on age and chest measurement:

• 0–6 months – to fit 41 cm (16 in) chest, actual measurement 46 cm (18 in)
• 6–12 months – to fit 46 cm (18 in) chest, actual measurement 51 cm (20 in)
• 1–2 years – to fit 51 cm (20 in) chest, actual measurement 56 cm (22 in)
• 2–3 years – to fit 56 cm (22 in) chest, actual measurement 61 cm (24 in)
• 4–5 years – to fit 61 cm (24 in) chest, actual measurement 66 cm (26 in)
• 6–7 years – to fit 66 cm (26 in) chest, actual measurement 71 cm (28 in)

Each size includes a generous amount of positive ease, ensuring comfortable, practical wear for active babies and children. Full lengths range from 24 cm (9½ in) for the smallest size up to 46 cm (18 in) for the largest. Sleeve lengths are adjustable and range from 15 cm (6 in) to 33 cm (13 in), giving knitters the flexibility to customise the fit further.

Design One: Round Neck Cardigan

The Round Neck Cardigan is a neat, classic design ideal for everyday wear and layering. Its clean neckline and structured Aran texture make it suitable for both casual and smarter occasions. This design is knitted in Hayfield Baby Aran shade 450.

Techniques and Construction

• Worked in separate pieces – back, two fronts, and sleeves – then seamed together, a traditional flat knitting construction well suited to beginners progressing beyond basic projects
• Features a cable panel as a central decorative element, adding classic Aran character to the fabric
• The body fabric is worked in Irish moss stitch, a reversible textured stitch that creates a dense, attractive fabric with excellent drape and warmth
• Ribbed welts and cuffs provide neat, stretchy edgings at the hem and sleeve ends
• A button band is worked to finish the front opening, fastened with 5 buttons for the three smallest sizes and 6 buttons for the three larger sizes

Stitches Used

• Irish moss stitch – the primary body stitch, creating a richly textured, firm fabric
• Cable stitch – worked over a 16-stitch panel, measuring 6.5 cm (2½ in) in width, forming the signature Aran feature of the design
• Rib stitch – used for welts, cuffs, and button bands

Design Two: Hooded Cardigan

The Hooded Cardigan is a cosy, practical alternative that replaces the round neckline with a snug, attached hood – perfect for keeping little ones warm in cooler weather. This design shares the same beautiful Aran texture as the Round Neck version but adds extra functionality and a charming, contemporary look. It is knitted in Hayfield Baby Aran shade 435.

Techniques and Construction

• Also worked flat in separate pieces and seamed, following the same traditional construction method as the Round Neck Cardigan