Cardigan & Sweater in Stylecraft Merry Go Round Chunky - 10047 - Downloadable PDF

Cardigan & Sweater in Stylecraft Merry Go Round Chunky

What Is Being Made

This downloadable PDF pattern provides instructions for creating two distinct children's garments: a cardigan and a sweater. Both designs are tailored for young children aged 2 to 11 years, with chest measurements ranging from 56 cm to 76 cm (22 to 30 inches). The patterns offer multiple size options to accommodate different ages and growth stages, making them versatile projects for knitters creating pieces for toddlers through older children.

Yarn and Materials

These projects are worked in Stylecraft Merry Go Round Chunky yarn, a chunky weight yarn that creates quick-working, satisfying garments. The yarn features a random color variation that naturally creates a fair isle effect without requiring complex colorwork techniques. The pattern notes that knitters can enhance the visual effect by matching the patterning across pieces by starting each section at a similar point in the yarn's color sequence. Needles required include 5mm needles for cast-on and ribbing sections, and 6mm needles for the main body and stitch pattern work.

Techniques Used

This intermediate-level knitting project incorporates several fundamental and decorative techniques. The garments begin with a garter stitch foundation, which provides a stable, textured base. Knitters will work with decreasing techniques, including k2tog (knit two together) and ssk (slip, slip, knit) decreases, which shape the garment and create stitch pattern definition. The pattern also demonstrates how to transition between needle sizes to achieve proper gauge and fabric characteristics.

Stitches Used

• Garter Stitch (g-st): Created by knitting every row, this foundational stitch appears in the initial 6 rows of the cardigan back, providing a textured, reversible fabric
• Lace Pattern: A 4-row repeating motif that forms the primary decorative element. The pattern alternates between yarn forward (yfwd) and decrease stitches to create openwork: Row 1 features k1, *yfwd, k2tog* repeats; Row 3 uses *ssk, yfwd* repeats with a final k1, with purl rows between each lace row for definition
• Knit and Purl Stitches: Basic stitches that form the foundation of all knit garments and are used throughout for shaping and texture
• Decreases: K2tog and ssk stitches are used both for shaping the garment silhouette and as integral elements of the lace pattern

Size Range and Measurements

The pattern accommodates five different age ranges and corresponding chest measurements. For ages 2-3 years, the chest measures 56 cm (22 inches) with an actual garment measurement of 67 cm (26½ inches). The largest size for ages 10-11 years features a 76 cm (30 inch) chest with an actual measurement of 89 cm (35 inches). Full length ranges from approximately 38 cm (15 inches) for the smallest size to 56 cm (22 inches) for the largest, while sleeve lengths progress from 24 cm (9½ inches) to 41 cm (16 inches).

Difficulty Level

Rated as intermediate, this pattern is suitable for knitters with foundational skills who are ready to work with lace stitches and multiple needle sizes. The combination of garter stitch, lace patterning, and shaping techniques provides an engaging project that builds skills without overwhelming beginners.