Tunic, Cardigan and Leggings in King Cole Cherish DK & Cherished DK - 4203 - Downloadable PDF

Tunic, Cardigan and Leggings Knitted in King Cole Cherish DK & Cherished DK – Pattern 4203

This King Cole pattern 4203 is a delightful collection of three coordinating baby and toddler knits: a tunic, a cardigan, and a pair of leggings. Designed to be worked in King Cole Cherish DK or King Cole Cherished DK yarn, these pieces make a charming, mix-and-match outfit suitable for sizes 46–66 cm (18–26 inches), covering a range of infant and toddler ages. The pattern is rated as intermediate in difficulty and is available as a downloadable PDF, making it instantly accessible for knitters ready to start a new project.

A portion of every King Cole pattern purchase contributes a donation to the Pink Ribbon Foundation, so buying and knitting this pattern also supports a meaningful charitable cause.

Materials: Yarn and Needles

All three garments are knitted using King Cole Cherish DK or King Cole Cherished DK, both of which are double knit (DK) weight yarns. These yarns are well known for their exceptionally soft, gentle feel, making them a popular choice for baby and toddler knitwear where comfort against delicate skin is a priority. The pattern specifies 4 mm needles as the recommended needle size to achieve the correct tension.

Tension

The stated tension for this pattern is 22 stitches and 28 rows to 10 cm (4 inches) measured over stocking stitch on 4 mm needles. Achieving the correct tension is essential to ensure each garment comes out at the intended size. Knitters who find they have fewer stitches than stated should switch to thinner needles, while those with more stitches should move to thicker needles.

The Tunic

The tunic is a longer-length top designed to be worn over leggings or trousers, creating a practical and stylish look for babies and toddlers. As part of this coordinating set, it is worked in King Cole Cherish DK or Cherished DK and sized to fit chest measurements from 46 to 66 cm (18 to 26 inches).

• Primary stitch: Stocking stitch (knit 1 row, purl 1 row alternately), creating a smooth, classic fabric
• Contrast colour (C) detailing may be incorporated for decorative effect
• Shaping is achieved through decrease and make 1 (m1) increase techniques

The Cardigan

The cardigan is a classic open-front baby jacket, ideal for layering over the tunic or other garments. Cardigans of this style are perennial favourites in baby knitwear, offering easy dressing and a neat, tidy finish. Worked in DK weight King Cole Cherish DK or Cherished DK, it follows the same size range as the rest of the collection.

• Primary stitch: Stocking stitch throughout the main body and sleeves
• Ribbing or border stitches are typically used at cuffs, hems, and button bands to provide neat, elastic edges
• Shaping techniques include decreasing for armholes and necklines and m1 increases for sleeve shaping
• The use of a contrast colour (abbreviated as C in the pattern) allows for personalised colour combinations
• Slip stitch (s1 knitways) techniques are referenced, contributing to tidy edges and shaping details

The Leggings

The leggings complete the outfit, providing a snug and stretchy lower garment that pairs perfectly with the tunic. Knitted leggings for babies and toddlers are a practical choice, as the natural elasticity of knitted fabric accommodates movement and growth. These are worked in the same King Cole Cher