Little Cape

Little Cape by Kris Blincoe

What is Being Made

The Little Cape is a cute and quick bulky knitting pattern designed for children aged 1 to 10 years old. This downloadable PDF pattern from independent designer Kris Blincoe creates a charming cape garment available in five size options: 1-2 years, 3-4 years, 5-6 years, 7-8 years, and 9-10 years. The cape features button closures and is constructed using straightforward knitting techniques suitable for beginners.

Techniques Used

The Little Cape pattern employs several fundamental knitting techniques that make it accessible to knitters new to garment construction. The design uses stitch markers to organize increases and maintain pattern symmetry throughout the piece. The pattern incorporates yarn overs to create a buttonhole row, which allows for functional closures on the finished garment. Increase stitches (KFB or knit front and back) are worked strategically around marked sections to shape the cape and create its flowing silhouette. The pattern can be worked on either long circular needles or straight needles depending on knitter preference and comfort level.

Stitches Used

• Knit stitch (K): The primary stitch forming the fabric of the cape
• Purl stitch (P): Used on wrong-side rows to create textured edges
• Knit front and back (KFB): An increase stitch worked to shape the cape with strategic shaping
• Yarn over (YO): Creates the decorative buttonhole openings
• Knit two together (K2TOG): A decrease stitch used in the buttonhole row
• Slip marker (SM): Marks key sections for organized stitch increases

Materials and Gauge

The Little Cape requires US size 13 (9mm) needles, preferably long circular needles to accommodate the bulky stitches, though straight needles may be substituted. The pattern calls for bulky weight yarn (weight category 5) in quantities ranging from 225 to 700 yards depending on the child's size. Additional notions include 4 stitch markers and 2 buttons for the cape closures. The working gauge is 15 rows and 10 stitches over 4 inches, which is typical for bulky yarn and contributes to the quick knitting time of this beginner-friendly project.