Cardigans Knitting Pattern

Cardigans in Stylecraft Special DK

What is Being Made

This downloadable PDF pattern provides instructions for knitting two easy raglan cardigan designs in Stylecraft Special DK yarn. The collection includes a Long Sleeved Cardigan and a Short Sleeved Cardigan, both featuring classic raglan armhole shaping. These cardigans are sized for children aged 2 to 11 years, with chest measurements ranging from 56cm to 82cm (22 to 32 inches). The patterns offer straightforward construction suitable for advanced beginner knitters looking to develop their skills with a practical, wearable garment.

Techniques Used

The cardigan patterns employ fundamental knitting techniques appropriate for the advanced beginner level. Raglan shaping is the primary construction method, created by decreasing stitches at each end of rows to form sloped armholes that extend from the underarm to the neckline. The patterns use cast-on and cast-off methods to begin and finish the work. Stocking stitch (also called stockinette stitch) is worked throughout the body and sleeves, creating the smooth, classic fabric appearance. The garment is constructed in pieces—back, front panels, and sleeves—which are then joined together. Measurements are taken at specific points during construction to ensure proper fit, with working in straight sections before shaping begins.

Stitches Used

The primary stitch throughout these cardigan patterns is stocking stitch (knit stitch on right-side rows, purl stitch on wrong-side rows), which creates the traditional smooth, V-textured fabric. The patterns begin with a knit row to establish the foundation. Decreases are worked at each end of designated rows to shape the raglan armholes, reducing stitch counts progressively. The cast-on and cast-off edges frame the finished garment, with specific stitch counts provided for each size to ensure proper proportions and fit.

Materials

These cardigans are designed to be worked in Stylecraft Special DK yarn, a double knitting weight that provides excellent stitch definition and drape for children's garments. The yardage requirement for the Long Sleeved Cardigan is 100g (approximately 13 balls) depending on the size selected. Knitting is worked on 3.25mm needles for the main fabric, with a change to 4mm needles at a specified point in the pattern. The needle size adjustment helps create proper fabric tension and structure. Stitch markers are helpful for tracking raglan decrease points, and standard knitting notions such as yarn needles for weaving in ends complete the project requirements.

Size Range and Fit

The patterns accommodate children from 2 to 11 years old across five size options. Chest measurements range from 56cm to 82cm (22 to 32 inches), with corresponding finished measurements from 62cm to 82cm. Full cardigan lengths vary from 31cm to 49cm, while the Long Sleeved version offers sleeve lengths from 24cm to 41cm. The Short Sleeved Cardigan provides sleeve lengths from 12cm to 16cm. Each size includes specific row and stitch counts to ensure accurate fit for the intended age group.