Round Neck, Collared and V Neck Cardigans Knitted in King Cole Big Value Baby DK - 5719 - Downloadable PDF

Round Neck, Collared and V Neck Cardigans Knitted in King Cole Big Value Baby DK – Pattern 5719

This downloadable PDF pattern from King Cole presents three classic baby cardigan designs in one comprehensive pattern booklet: a round neck cardigan, a collared cardigan, and a V neck cardigan. All three garments are sized to fit chest measurements of 36–56 cm (14–22 inches), making them suitable for newborns through to toddlers. The pattern is rated as intermediate in difficulty, offering a rewarding project for knitters who are comfortable with basic shaping and simple stitch panels.

Each cardigan is worked in King Cole Big Value Baby DK yarn, a double knit weight yarn designed specifically with babies in mind. The use of a DK weight yarn means the fabric knits up at a satisfying pace while still producing a fine, soft result appropriate for delicate baby skin. Knitters will need 4 mm knitting needles, or whichever needle size is required to achieve the stated tension.

Tension

Achieving the correct tension is essential for all three designs. The pattern specifies 22 stitches and 28 rows to 10 cm (4 inches) over stocking stitch on 4 mm needles. Additionally, the cable panel of 13 stitches measures 5.25 cm (approximately 2 inches), indicating that at least one of the cardigan designs features a cable panel as a decorative element. Knitters are advised to check their tension swatch carefully and adjust needle size accordingly — using thinner needles if fewer stitches are produced, or thicker needles if more stitches appear than specified.

Round Neck Cardigan

The round neck cardigan is a timeless baby classic, featuring a neat, comfortable neckline that is easy to dress babies in. This style is ideal for everyday wear and pairs well with a variety of outfits. The round neck shaping is achieved through standard decrease techniques at the neck edge, worked symmetrically on both front pieces.

• Neckline: Classic round neck, suitable for all ages within the size range
• Construction: Worked in separate pieces — back, two fronts, and sleeves — then seamed
• Stitch pattern: Primarily stocking stitch with ribbed edgings

Collared Cardigan

The collared cardigan adds a charming, traditional detail with the addition of a knitted collar. This style gives the finished garment a slightly more formal or dressed-up appearance, making it a popular choice for special occasions or gifting. The collar is typically picked up and worked in a rib or garter stitch border to complement the body of the cardigan.

• Neckline: Features a knitted collar for added detail and warmth
• Decorative element: The cable panel referenced in the tension section is likely incorporated into this or one of the other designs, adding textural interest
• Stitch pattern: Combination of stocking stitch and cable panel

V Neck Cardigan

The V neck cardigan is a versatile and stylish option that works well layered over babygrows or light tops. The V neck shaping requires careful, evenly spaced decreasing along the front edges to create the characteristic angled neckline. This design is a great intermediate-level challenge for knitters looking to practise neat front band and neckline finishing.

• Neckline: V-shaped, requiring symmetrical front shaping with decrease stitches
• Front bands: Typically finished with a button band and buttonhole band worked in rib stitch
• Stitch pattern: Primarily stocking stitch with ribbed borders

Techniques and Stitches Used

Across all three cardigan designs, knitters will work with a range of standard and intermediate knitting techniques. The patterns make use of the full range of common knitting abbreviations and methods, including:

• Stocking stitch — the primary fabric stitch, formed by alternating knit and purl rows