Lottie's cardigan

Lottie's Cardigan by Sugar Lambs

What is Being Made

Lottie's Cardigan is a delicate knitted cardigan designed by Irena Cep for babies aged 3-6 months. This downloadable PDF pattern creates a fitted, elegant garment with the following measurements: chest circumference of 46 cm, length of 23 cm, and sleeve length of 25 cm. The design features optional ruffles around the neckline, allowing crafters to customize the finished piece. Without the ruffles, the cardigan can be styled as a unisex or less feminine option, making it versatile for different preferences and baby genders.

Construction Method and Approach

The cardigan is worked top down and flat in one piece, which simplifies the construction process and minimizes seaming. The knitting sequence begins with casting on the required stitches and working the neckline first. From there, the crafter progresses into the raglan shaping, which creates the characteristic sloped shoulder lines. After completing the raglan increases, each sleeve is worked individually, followed by the body sections. This top-down, flat construction method is ideal for achieving proper fit and allows for easy adjustments during the knitting process.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

This intermediate-level pattern incorporates several stitch techniques to create visual interest and texture:

• Garter stitch – a fundamental knit stitch that creates a bumpy, textured fabric
• 3x3 right cross cable – a cable pattern that twists stitches to the right
• 3x3 left cross cable – a cable pattern that twists stitches to the left
• 1x1 right cross – a smaller cable variation that adds subtle texture
• Stockinette stitch – the primary stitch used throughout, creating a smooth, classic knit fabric

The combination of cables and stockinette provides both decorative detail and structural integrity to this baby cardigan.

Yarn and Materials

The pattern calls for SweetGeorgia Merino Silk Lace yarn, which offers 700 meters per 100 grams. Only one skein is required to complete the entire cardigan. This lace-weight yarn is luxuriously soft and drapes beautifully, making it perfect for a delicate baby garment. Crafters may substitute any yarn of similar lace weight, though the final appearance and drape may vary depending on fiber content and construction.

Tools and notions required include:

• Circular needles in 2mm size
• Stitch markers for tracking pattern sections
• Cable needle for working cable stitches
• Five buttons for the cardigan closure
• Tapestry needle for weaving in ends and seaming
• Scissors for cutting yarn

Gauge and Tension

The pattern specifies a gauge of 25 stitches by 37 rows over 10 centimeters when worked in stockinette stitch. This gauge is approximate and may vary depending on individual knitting tension. Crafters should knit a gauge swatch before beginning the project to ensure accurate finished measurements, as tension differences can significantly affect the fit of a baby garment.

Difficulty Level

Lottie's Cardigan is rated as an intermediate knitting project. While it requires familiarity with basic knitting techniques such as casting on, stockinette stitch, and binding off, it also incorporates cable work and raglan shaping. The top-down, flat construction method is more forgiving than traditional seamed garments, making it accessible to knitters who have completed several basic projects and are ready to expand their skills.