Cardigans in Stylecraft Bambino DK - 9503 - Downloadable PDF

Cardigans in Stylecraft Bambino DK - Pattern Summary

What is Being Made

This downloadable PDF pattern provides instructions for knitting two easy cardigan designs for babies and young children. The cardigans are sized to fit ages newborn through 3 years, with chest measurements ranging from 36cm to 56cm (14 to 22 inches). Both designs are available in short-sleeved and long-sleeved versions, making them versatile pieces for different seasons and preferences.

Sizes and Measurements

The pattern includes five size options:

• Newborn: To fit chest 36cm (14in), actual measurement 42cm (16½in), full length 24cm (9½in)
• 0-6 months: To fit chest 41cm (16in), actual measurement 47cm (18½in), full length 27cm (10¾in)
• 6-12 months: To fit chest 46cm (18in), actual measurement 52cm (20½in), full length 29cm (11½in)
• 12-24 months: To fit chest 51cm (20in), actual measurement 57cm (22½in), full length 32cm (12½in)
• 2-3 years: To fit chest 56cm (22in), actual measurement 62cm (24½in), full length 40cm (15¾in)

Sleeve Options

The pattern offers flexibility with sleeve length choices. Short sleeves measure approximately 1.5cm to 3cm (½in to 1¼in), while long sleeves range from 12cm to 24cm (4¾in to 9½in) depending on the size selected.

Knitting Techniques

This intermediate-level pattern employs fundamental knitting techniques suitable for crafters with basic experience. The construction begins with a thumb method cast-on, which provides a flexible and durable foundation edge. The pattern uses ribbed edging worked in 1x1 rib stitch to create elastic, fitted edges that help the cardigan maintain its shape. Decreasing techniques, specifically purl 2 together (p2tog), are used strategically to shape the garment and adjust stitch counts. The main body is worked using fundamental knit and purl stitches to create a smooth, classic stockinette fabric.

Stitches Used

The pattern incorporates essential knitting stitches:

• 1x1 Ribbing: Alternating knit and purl stitches create the elastic rib sections at cuffs and edges
• Knit Stitch: Forms the primary fabric on right-side rows
• Purl Stitch: Creates texture on wrong-side rows and contributes to the ribbed sections
• Purl 2 Together (p2tog): A decrease technique used to shape the garment and reduce stitch counts as indicated in the pattern instructions

Materials Required

The pattern specifies Stylecraft Bambino DK yarn, a double knitting weight suitable for baby garments. One short-sleeved cardigan requires 1 x 100g ball of yarn. The pattern calls for 3¼mm needles for the ribbed sections and 4mm needles for the main body, allowing for the slight gauge adjustment that creates definition between the ribbed and stockinette sections.

Yarn Weight and Difficulty

This pattern uses double knitting (DK) weight yarn, a medium-weight option that works up quickly while remaining manageable for intermediate knitters. The pattern is rated as intermediate difficulty, making it accessible to knitters who have mastered basic techniques and are ready to work with shaping, multiple needle sizes, and size variations.