Girls’ Tabards in King Cole Majestic DK - 4927 - Downloadable PDF

Girls' Tabards Knitted in King Cole Majestic DK – Pattern 4927

This King Cole pattern 4927 is a downloadable PDF for knitting girls' tabards — a versatile style that sits between a cape and a waistcoat, draping over the shoulders and body without sleeves. The tabard silhouette is a timeless, easy-to-wear design for girls, making it a practical and stylish layering piece. The pattern is rated intermediate in difficulty, making it well suited to knitters who are comfortable with basic techniques and ready to tackle simple cable work.

The tabards are sized to fit chest measurements of 56–76 cm (22–30 in), covering a range of girls' sizes. This breadth of sizing makes the pattern a useful addition to any knitter's collection for gifting or wardrobe building.

Yarn and Materials

The pattern is designed to be knitted in King Cole Majestic DK, a double knitting weight yarn. Using a named yarn from the King Cole brand ensures the tension and drape of the finished tabards match the designer's intentions. 4 mm knitting needles are recommended as the starting point, though knitters are advised to adjust needle size up or down to achieve the correct tension. A cable needle is also required for working the cable panel sections.

Tension

The stated tension is 22 stitches and 28 rows to 10 cm (4 in) over stocking stitch on 4 mm needles. Additionally, the cable panel of 26 stitches measures 10 cm (4 in). Achieving both of these tension measurements is described in the pattern as essential to ensure the garment comes out at the correct size. Knitters are encouraged to swatch carefully before casting on.

Stitches and Techniques Used

• Stocking stitch – the primary background fabric, created by alternating knit and purl rows on straight needles
• Cable panel – a 26-stitch decorative panel featuring a cable twist stitch; specifically, a T3R (slip next stitch onto cable needle and hold at back, knit 2, then work the held stitch) is referenced, adding a classic rope or twist effect to the fabric
• Knit (k) and purl (p) stitches form the foundation of all fabric sections
• Increasing and decreasing – used for shaping the tabard panels
• Right side (RS) and wrong side (WS) working – the pattern distinguishes between RS and WS rows throughout

Key Knitting Techniques Explained

Cable knitting is a technique where stitches are deliberately crossed over one another using a cable needle — a short auxiliary needle used to hold stitches temporarily. This crossing creates the characteristic twisted rope or braid appearance associated with traditional knitwear. The T3R cable cross used in this pattern holds one stitch at the back of the work while two stitches are knitted, then the held stitch is worked, producing a right-leaning twist. This level of cable work is well within reach for an intermediate knitter and adds visual interest and texture to what would otherwise be a straightforward tabard shape.

Stocking stitch, worked on the body sections surrounding the cable panel, provides a smooth, clean fabric that contrasts neatly with the textured cable, a classic combination in DK-weight garment knitting.

Pattern Format and Charitable Contribution

Pattern 4927 is available as a downloadable PDF, allowing instant access after purchase. As noted on the pattern cover, King Cole makes a donation to the Pink Ribbon Foundation for every pattern sold, meaning each purchase supports a charitable cause alongside the craft.

Whether knitted as a gift or as part of a child's handmade wardrobe, these Girls' Tabards in King Cole Majestic DK offer an appealing combination of classic cable texture, a flattering layering silhouette, and the reliable quality associated with the King Cole brand.