Cardigans in Sirdar Supersoft Aran - 2259 - Downloadable PDF

Cardigans in Sirdar Supersoft Aran – Pattern 2259: Children's Knitted Cardigans (Ages 2–13)

This downloadable PDF knitting pattern from Sirdar presents two charming children's cardigan designs — a long-sleeved version and a short-sleeved version — both worked in the luxuriously soft Sirdar Supersoft Aran yarn. Sized to fit children aged 2 to 13 years, with chest measurements ranging from 56 cm (22 in) to 81 cm (32 in), these cardigans offer a versatile wardrobe staple that grows with your child. The pattern is well-suited to knitters with some experience, particularly those comfortable with cable and textural stitch techniques.

Design Overview

Long-Sleeved Cardigan

The long-sleeved cardigan is a classic, cosy option ideal for cooler months. Sleeve lengths range from approximately 30.5 cm to 43 cm depending on the size, making it a practical and warm layering piece. The finished actual measurements range from 61 cm to 86 cm in chest circumference, with full lengths from 35 cm to 47 cm.

• Yarn: Sirdar Supersoft Aran in shade 892, requiring 2 to 4 x 100g balls depending on size
• Buttons: 2 buttons for the front fastening

Short-Sleeved Cardigan

The short-sleeved version offers a lighter, more versatile option suitable for transitional weather or layering over shirts and dresses. The short sleeves measure just 2 cm — essentially a cap sleeve finish — keeping the design neat and contemporary.

• Yarn: Sirdar Supersoft Aran in shade 890, requiring 2 to 3 x 100g balls depending on size
• Buttons: 2 buttons for the front fastening

Techniques and Stitches Used

Both cardigans feature a combination of classic knitting techniques and decorative stitch work that adds texture and visual interest to the fabric. The inclusion of cables, bobbles, and twist stitches elevates these designs beyond a simple stocking stitch project, making them a rewarding knit for those looking to develop or practise their skills.

Key Stitches and Techniques

• Stocking Stitch: The main body fabric is worked in stocking stitch (knit on right side, purl on wrong side), which forms the smooth, classic base of both cardigans.
• Cable Stitch – CR5R: A five-stitch right-crossing cable worked by slipping 2 stitches to a cable needle held at the back, knitting 3 stitches, then purling the 2 held stitches. This creates a defined, rope-like cable panel.
• Twist Stitches – T2R and T2L: Two-stitch right and left twists are worked without a cable needle by knitting into stitches out of sequence on the left-hand needle. These add subtle diagonal texture and movement to the fabric.
• Make Bobble (MB): A decorative bobble is created by working (k1, p1, k1) into a single stitch to increase to 3 stitches, then working short rows over these stitches before decreasing back to one stitch with a slip, k2tog, psso. Bobbles add a playful, three-dimensional detail perfect for children's knitwear.
• Wrap 1: A short-row wrapping technique used to avoid holes when turning mid-row, contributing to the neat shaping of the garment.
• Increases and Decreases: Standard shaping techniques including inc (increase) and dec (decrease), as well as k2tog (knit two together) and psso (pass slipped stitch over), are used throughout for armhole, sleeve, and neckline shaping.
• Ribbing: Likely used at cuffs, hem, and button bands (as is standard in