Cardigans in Stylecraft Sweet Dreams DK & Bambino DK - 9978 - Downloadable PDF

Cardigans in Stylecraft Sweet Dreams DK & Bambino DK - Pattern 9978

What Is Being Made

This downloadable PDF pattern from Stylecraft contains instructions for two cardigan designs: a Round Neck Cardigan and an additional cardigan style. The patterns are sized for babies and toddlers, ranging from newborn through 3 years old, with finished chest measurements from 43cm (17 inches) to 64cm (25¼ inches). These are classic, everyday cardigans suitable for layering over other garments.

Sizes and Measurements

• Age Range: Newborn, 0-6 months, 6-12 months, 12-24 months, and 2-3 years
• Chest Sizes: 36cm, 41cm, 46cm, 51cm, and 56cm (14, 16, 18, 20, and 22 inches)
• Actual Finished Measurements: 43cm to 64cm (17 to 25¼ inches)
• Full Length: 20cm to 38cm (8 to 15 inches) depending on size
• Sleeve Length: 12cm to 24cm (4¾ to 9½ inches) depending on size

Knitting Techniques Used

The Round Neck Cardigan employs fundamental knitting construction methods appropriate for beginner-level knitters. The pattern uses the thumb method for casting on, a reliable technique for creating a stretchy, even foundation edge. The cardigan is worked in separate pieces (back, fronts, and sleeves) that are later assembled, a standard approach for baby garments that allows for easier fitting adjustments and straightforward construction.

The pattern incorporates ribbed edgings to create structure and elasticity at the neckline, cuffs, and hem. The back section begins with garter stitch edging before transitioning into the main rib pattern, providing a neat, finished appearance and preventing curling at the edges.

Stitches Used

• Garter Stitch (g-st): Created by knitting every row, producing a textured, reversible fabric with horizontal ridges. Used for the initial edging rows on the back piece.
• Ribbed Pattern: The pattern uses a combination of knit and purl stitches to create vertical columns of texture. The specific rib pattern shown alternates knit and purl stitches with variations of K1B (knit one through the back loop), which twists the stitch for a refined appearance. This rib pattern continues until the piece reaches the specified length before proceeding to stockinette or other stitch patterns.
• Slip Stitch (Sl1): Used at the beginning of rows to create neat, chain-like selvage edges that are easier to pick up for seaming.

Materials Required

This pattern is designed for double knitting (DK) weight yarn, specifically Stylecraft's Sweet Dreams DK and Bambino DK yarn ranges. Double knitting is a versatile, medium-weight yarn that works well for baby garments, offering good stitch definition while remaining soft and comfortable against delicate skin.

The pattern requires 4mm knitting needles for the main fabric and 3.25mm needles for the ribbed edging sections. The smaller needle size creates tighter, more elastic ribbing that holds its shape better than ribbing worked on larger needles. The pattern specifies casting on 41 to 61 stitches depending on the chosen size, with exact stitch counts provided for each age range.

Difficulty Level

Rated as beginner, this pattern is ideal for knitters new to garment construction. The straightforward shaping, use of basic stitches, and clear size options make it accessible while still producing a polished, wearable result. The ribbed pattern and garter stitch sections are fundamental techniques that help build foundational skills.