Berroco Rosebay Cardigan Knitting Pattern

Berroco Rosebay Cardigan

What is Being Made

The Berroco Rosebay is a classic children's cardigan designed for sizes ranging from 18 months through size 8. This button-front cardigan features a timeless construction with finished chest measurements of 23(24-25-26-27)" and lengths of 13(14-15-16-16½)" depending on size selected. The garment is designed with approximately 4" of ease for comfortable wearing.

Techniques Used

This cardigan is constructed using a bottom-up seamed approach, meaning pieces are knitted individually from the bottom edge upward and then joined together with seams. The pieces are worked flat on straight needles rather than in the round, allowing for straightforward shaping and construction. This method is ideal for creating structured garments with clean finishing details.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The Rosebay features ribbing at the lower edge, which provides elasticity and a polished finish. The main body is worked in Pattern Stitch (Pat St), which creates visual interest and texture throughout the cardigan. Strategic decreases are incorporated during construction to achieve proper shaping and fit, particularly evident in the pattern rows where decreases are strategically placed using techniques such as p2tog (purl 2 together) to reduce stitch counts and create shaping.

Materials and Tools

• Yarn: 3(3-3-4-4) hanks of Berroco Modern Cotton in colorway #1639 Waterfire. Each hank weighs 100 grams, making this an ideal yarn for children's garments due to its durability and easy-care properties.
• Needles: Straight knitting needles in sizes 5 (3.75 mm) for ribbing and size 6 (4.00 mm) for the main pattern, or appropriate sizes to achieve correct gauge
• Notions: Two stitch markers for pattern placement and five ½" buttons for the button band closure
• Gauge: 20 stitches and 28 rows equal 4" when measured over Pattern Stitch on larger needles. Achieving proper gauge is essential before beginning this intermediate-level project.

Skill Level

This pattern is rated as Intermediate, making it suitable for knitters with foundational skills who are ready to work with multiple sizes, stitch pattern variations, and garment construction techniques including seaming.