Matilda baby knitting pattern 20" & 22" chest size

Matilda Baby Cardigan Knitting Pattern

What is Being Made

The Matilda is a baby cardigan designed by Designs by Tracy D, available in two sizes to fit 20" and 22" chest measurements. This garment is a classic button-up cardigan suitable for infants, combining practical construction with a timeless design.

Techniques Used

This intermediate-level knitting pattern employs several fundamental and intermediate techniques. The cardigan construction begins with ribbed edging worked on smaller needles to create a neat, elastic finish. The pattern utilizes stocking stitch as the primary fabric, which creates a smooth, classic appearance. Shaping is achieved through strategic decreasing and increasing methods, including knit-two-together decreases and make-one increases to shape the front panels and armholes. The pattern also incorporates yarn-forward techniques for creating texture variations and shaping details.

Stitches Used

The Matilda pattern employs a focused set of essential stitches appropriate for an intermediate project:

• Knit (K) – the fundamental stitch forming the base of the fabric
• Purl (P) – used in combination with knit stitches for ribbed edging and textural elements
• Knit 2 Together (K2TOG) – a right-leaning decrease used for shaping
• Slip 1 Knit 1 Pass Slipped Stitch (SKPO) – a left-leaning decrease providing directional shaping
• Purl 2 Together Through Back Loop (P2TOGTBL) – a specialized purl decrease for refined shaping
• Make 1 (M1) – an increase created by picking up the loop between stitches and working into the back, used for gradual shaping
• Yarn Forward (YFWD) and Yarn Over (YO) – techniques for creating intentional holes or texture
• Stocking Stitch (STST) – the primary fabric created by alternating knit and purl rows
• Rib Stitch – alternating knit and purl stitches in columns for elastic edging

Materials and Specifications

The Matilda cardigan is worked using DK weight yarn, with approximately 200 grams total required for completion. The pattern calls for two needle sizes: 3.25mm needles for the ribbed edging sections and 4mm needles for the main body worked in stocking stitch. Six to seven buttons are needed to complete the cardigan front closure, depending on the size being knitted.

Tension and Gauge

Achieving the correct tension is essential for proper fit. The pattern specifies a gauge of 22 stitches and 30 rows measuring 4 inches (10 centimeters) when worked over stocking stitch using 4mm needles and DK weight yarn. Checking gauge before beginning ensures the finished cardigan will achieve the intended 20" or 22" chest measurements.

Pattern Construction Details

The left front panel begins by casting on 27 stitches for the first size or 31 stitches for the second size using 3.25mm needles. The initial ribbing section is worked for 10 rows on the first size or 9 rows on the second size in a knit 1 purl 1 rib pattern, creating a neat, stretchy edge. The pattern then transitions to 4mm needles and stocking stitch for the main body. Strategic decreases and increases are incorporated throughout the front panels to create shaping, with specific instructions provided for each size to ensure proper fit at the armholes and neckline.