"Sakura" Dress set

Sakura Dress and Cardigan Set by Caroline Richards

What is Being Made

The Sakura is a coordinated dress and cardigan set designed for Reborn dolls measuring 16–22 inches or for newborn to 3-month-old babies. This downloadable knitting pattern provides instructions for creating a complete two-piece outfit scaled to fit multiple sizes, making it a versatile project for doll enthusiasts and parents seeking handmade infant garments.

Sizing Options

The pattern accommodates three distinct sizing categories:

• 21–22 inch dolls or 0–3 month babies
• 16–18 inch dolls or small newborn babies
• 19–20 inch dolls or newborn babies

Knitting Techniques and Stitches

This intermediate-level knitting project employs several fundamental and decorative techniques. The pattern uses stocking stitch as the primary fabric structure, which creates the smooth, classic appearance suitable for garment construction. Garter stitch is incorporated for textured sections and finishing details. Lace knitting is featured prominently, with the designer incorporating lace panels worked over 25mm satin ribbon—either 38 holes or 48 holes depending on the size being made—creating an elegant, feminine aesthetic characteristic of the Sakura design.

The pattern utilizes standard abbreviations including knit (K.), purl (P.), slip stitch (sl1), yarn forward (yfwd.), yarn over (yo.), pass slip stitch over (p.s.s.o.), and make one (m1) increases. These techniques combine to create shaping and decorative elements throughout the dress and cardigan.

Materials and Yarn Weight

The Sakura set is worked in double knit (DK) weight yarn, a versatile mid-weight fiber that provides excellent stitch definition for both stockinette and lace patterns. Yarn quantities vary by size:

• 150 grams of double knit wool for the largest sizes (21–22 inch dolls and 19–20 inch dolls)
• 120 grams of 4-ply wool for the 16–18 inch doll size

Needles and Notions

The pattern requires straight needles in multiple sizes to accommodate gauge adjustments across different garment sizes. Needle sizes range from 2.75mm to 4mm, allowing knitters to achieve proper fabric density for each specific size. The lace panels are worked over 25mm satin ribbon, with approximately 10–12 inches of extra ribbon on either side for tying decorative bows, or the ribbon component can be purchased pre-sewn as a custom option. The set is completed with five buttons for the cardigan closure.

Difficulty Level

Rated as an intermediate project, the Sakura requires familiarity with basic knitting techniques including increases, decreases, and lace knitting fundamentals. Knitters should be comfortable reading pattern abbreviations and managing multiple stitch types within a single project.