Classic Elite Yarns Benjamin and Betty Ann Knitting Pattern

Classic Elite Yarns Benjamin and Betty Ann Cardigans

What Is Being Made

The Benjamin and Betty Ann pattern set features quick-to-knit cardigans designed for babies and toddlers in sizes 6, 12, 18, and 24 months. These are gender-specific designs with distinct buttonhole placements—girls' versions feature buttonholes on the left front, while boys' versions have buttonholes on the right front. Both designs include a garter stitch shawl collar and optional scalloped edge detailing at the underarm.

Construction Techniques

The cardigans are constructed using a bottom-up, seamed, and worked-flat approach. The body is worked as a single piece from the cast-on edge to the armholes, with the sleeves picked up at the armholes and worked in the round down to the cuffs. This efficient construction method minimizes seaming while maintaining structural integrity.

The pattern incorporates shaping at the armholes and collar division, with increases and bind-offs strategically placed to create the cardigan silhouette. The front bands and collar edges are maintained in garter stitch throughout to frame the garment and provide a finished appearance.

Stitches Used

• Garter Stitch (Gtr st): Used for the initial ribbing, front bands (4 stitches at each edge), and the shawl collar for texture and structure
• Stockinette Stitch (St st): Forms the main body fabric between the garter stitch front bands
• Scalloped Edge Stitch: An optional decorative stitch worked over a multiple of 7 stitches plus 8, featuring yarn overs, knit-two-togethers, and slip-slip-knits to create a lacy, scalloped border at the underarm
• Buttonhole Stitches: Created using yarn overs paired with knit-two-togethers, positioned strategically along the front bands
• Increase Techniques: Knit-front-and-back (kfb) for shaping at the collar
• Decrease Techniques: Knit-two-together (k2tog) and slip-slip-knit (ssk) for both buttonholes and scalloped edge shaping

Materials and Tools

This pattern is designed to be worked with knitting needles and Classic Elite Yarns yarn. The pattern accommodates multiple sizes with stitch counts ranging from 57 to 75 stitches for the cast-on, allowing customization based on desired finished size. Sleeves are worked in the round, requiring circular needles or double-pointed needles for that portion of construction.

Pattern Details

Originally published in The New Generation 1504, a printed collection by Classic Elite Yarns, this pattern is classified as Intermediate skill level. The cardigans are designed to knit quickly, making them ideal for gift-giving or building a baby wardrobe. Buttonholes are strategically placed at approximately 2½ to 3½ inches from the cast-on edge, then again at 4½ to 6½ inches, depending on size.

The armhole depth ranges from 4½ to 6¼ inches depending on the size selected, with back neck shaping that accommodates 9 to 15 stitches. The overall construction maintains balanced proportions across all four size options, ensuring consistent fit and drape throughout the size range.