Boys Sweater and Cardigan with Hoods in Sirdar Supersoft Aran - 2426 - Downloadable PDF

Boys Sweater and Cardigan with Hoods in Sirdar Supersoft Aran

What is Being Made

This downloadable knitting pattern from Sirdar offers two coordinating designs for boys aged 2 to 13 years: a pullover sweater with hood and a button-front cardigan with hood. Both garments feature matching hood construction and are sized to fit chest measurements from 56cm (22 inches) for age 2–3 years through to 81cm (32 inches) for age 12–13 years. The full length ranges from 38cm (15 inches) for the smallest size to 58cm (22¾ inches) for the largest size, with adjustable sleeve lengths accommodating growth.

Techniques Used

The pattern employs classic knitting construction techniques suitable for intermediate knitters. The garments feature cable panel work combined with hurdle stitch for textured interest. Hood construction is integrated into both designs, requiring careful shaping and finishing. The cardigan version includes button bands worked as part of the main fabric, with six to seven buttons (depending on size) providing closure. Sleeve shaping is incorporated throughout the pattern, with adjustable length options to customize the fit as children grow.

Stitches Used

• Cable Panel: Featured as a decorative element, with 44 stitches measuring 20cm (8 inches) in width
• Hurdle Stitch: The primary stitch used for the main fabric body, creating a textured, durable fabric suitable for children's wear
• Ribbing: Implied for cuff and hem finishing on a standard knitting pattern

Materials Required

Yarn: Sirdar Supersoft Aran yarn is used for both designs. The cardigan is worked in shade 821, while the sweater is worked in shade 916. Yarn requirements range from 3 × 100g balls for the smallest sizes (2–3, 4–5, and 6–7 years) to 4 × 100g balls for sizes 8–9 and 10–11 years, and 5 × 100g balls for the largest size (12–13 years). Aran weight yarn provides excellent stitch definition for cable and texture work while creating a warm, durable fabric ideal for children's garments.

Needles and Notions: The pattern requires two pairs of knitting needles—5mm (UK size 6, USA size 8) for the main fabric and 4mm (UK size 8, USA size 6) for ribbed edgings. Additional tools include a stitch holder for managing stitches during construction and a cable needle for working cable panels. The cardigan version requires 6 to 7 buttons depending on the child's size.

Tension

Achieving correct tension is essential for proper fit. The pattern specifies 18 stitches and 26 rows to 10cm (4 inches) over hurdle stitch when worked on 5mm needles. The cable panel tension is measured at 44 stitches equaling 20cm (8 inches) in width. Checking tension before beginning ensures the finished garment will match the intended measurements across all size options.