"See Saw Cardigan" - Cardigan Knitting Pattern For Babies in Paintbox Yarns Simply DK - DK-Baby-001

See Saw Cardigan – Baby Knitting Pattern Overview (DK-Baby-001)

The See Saw Cardigan is a charming knitted cardigan pattern designed specifically for babies, published by Paintbox Yarns as a free downloadable PDF (pattern code DK-Baby-001). Rated easy/intermediate in difficulty, this pattern is an excellent project for knitters who are comfortable with basic techniques and ready to explore simple garment construction. The finished cardigan is a classic, wearable piece sized to fit babies from newborn through toddler age.

Sizes and Finished Measurements

The pattern is written to fit four baby sizes, making it a versatile addition to any handmade wardrobe:

• 0–3 months – to fit chest 41 cm (16 in), actual measurement 45 cm (17¾ in), finished length 24 cm (9½ in)
• 3–6 months – to fit chest 46 cm (18 in), actual measurement 50 cm (19½ in), finished length 28 cm (11 in)
• 6–12 months – to fit chest 51 cm (20 in), actual measurement 55 cm (21½ in), finished length 32 cm (12½ in)
• 12–18 months – to fit chest 56 cm (22 in), actual measurement 61 cm (24 in), finished length 36 cm (14 in)

The finished measurements include a small amount of positive ease, ensuring a comfortable, relaxed fit over baby clothing. Finished length is measured to the back neck.

Materials Required

The recommended yarn is Paintbox Yarns Simply DK, a smooth, double knitting weight yarn well suited to baby garments. The pattern calls for 1 [2: 2: 3] x 100g balls depending on the size being made. As with all Paintbox Yarns patterns, yarn quantities are based on average requirements and are approximate. The pattern notes that Paintbox Yarns cannot accept responsibility for the finished garment if any yarn other than the recommended yarn is used, so substituting with a different DK yarn should be done with care and a careful tension swatch.

Knitting Techniques Used

The See Saw Cardigan is constructed using a combination of techniques that make it approachable for intermediate knitters while offering good learning opportunities for those stepping up from beginner level:

• Bottom-up construction – the garment pieces are worked from the cast-on edge upward toward the shoulders, a traditional and intuitive approach for knitted cardigans
• Worked flat – all pieces are knitted back and forth in rows on straight or circular needles, rather than in the round, making the pattern straightforward to follow
• Seamed finishing – the individual pieces (back, fronts, and sleeves) are sewn together after knitting, producing a structured, neat finish typical of classic baby knitwear

Working flat and seaming is a well-established approach in garment knitting. Seams can actually add stability to a baby cardigan, helping the finished piece hold its shape through repeated washing and wear. Knitters new to seaming will find baby-sized garments a manageable introduction to this skill, as the seams are relatively short.

Pattern Format and Terminology

The pattern PDF is written using UK knitting terminology, with US terminology equivalents given in italics in round brackets throughout, making it accessible to knitters on both sides of the Atlantic. Instructions are given for the smallest size first, with changes for larger sizes provided in square brackets. Where only one figure appears, it applies to all sizes — a standard and easy-to-follow convention.

Difficulty Level

Rated easy/intermediate, the See Saw Cardigan is best suited to knitters who already understand basic knitting stitches and are comfortable reading a multi-size garment pattern. The flat, seamed construction removes the need for advanced techniques such as short rows or in-the-round shaping, keeping the focus on clean stitch work and neat finishing.

Why Knit the See Saw Cardigan?

As a free downloadable pattern from Paintbox Yarns, the See