Debbie Bliss Mimi Cardigan Knitting Pattern

Debbie Bliss Mimi Cardigan

What Is Being Made

The Mimi Cardigan is a children's knitted cardigan designed by Debbie Bliss, available in four size options to fit ages 2-3, 4-5, 6-7, and 8-9 years. The finished cardigan features a classic button-front closure and is tailored for young children with proportionate sleeve lengths and body measurements. Finished chest measurements range from 62cm (24½ inches) for the smallest size to 76cm (30 inches) for the largest size, with corresponding lengths from 26cm (10¼ inches) to 32cm (12½ inches).

Techniques Used

This advanced beginner knitting project employs fundamental garment construction techniques suitable for knitters developing intermediate skills. The pattern uses stocking stitch as the primary fabric texture, created by alternating knit and purl rows to produce the classic smooth, V-textured knit fabric. The cardigan incorporates decreasing techniques including k2tog (knit two stitches together) and skpo (slip one stitch, knit one stitch, pass slipped stitch over) to shape the neckline and front edges. Yarn over stitches are utilized for decorative or structural elements. The pattern demonstrates pick-up stitches, where stitches are picked up along finished edges to create bands and borders, and includes ribbed edging worked on smaller needles to create elasticity at cuffs and hem areas.

Stitches Used

• Stocking stitch (st st): The primary fabric stitch, alternating knit and purl rows to create the smooth textured surface
• Knit stitch (k): Foundation stitch used throughout the cardigan body
• Purl stitch (p): Used in alternating rows to create stocking stitch and in ribbed sections
• Knit two together (k2tog): Decrease stitch used for shaping at neckline and front closures
• Slip, knit, pass slipped stitch over (skpo): Left-leaning decrease stitch for symmetrical shaping
• Purl two together (p2tog) and purl two together through back loop (p2tog tbl): Decrease stitches worked on purl rows for consistent shaping
• Yarn over (yo): Stitch used for creating openwork or decorative details
• Slip stitch (sl): Used for passing stitches as part of decrease techniques

Materials

The Mimi Cardigan is knitted using Debbie Bliss Cashmerino Chunky yarn, a premium blend combining cashmere and merino wool for softness and warmth. Yarn quantities vary by size: 4 balls (50g/1¾oz each) for the smallest size, increasing to 6 balls for the largest size. The specific colorway featured is Teal 13. Two pairs of knitting needles are required: 6mm (US 10) needles for the main fabric in stocking stitch, and 5.5mm (US 9) needles for the ribbed edging and borders. The pattern specifies a gauge of 15 stitches and 22 rows to a 10cm (4-inch) square in stocking stitch using the 6mm needles. One button is required to complete the front closure. Yarn is available through Lovecrafts.com.

Pattern Structure

The cardigan is constructed using the standard method of knitting separate pieces that are subsequently assembled. The pattern includes a back piece and two front pieces, with sleeves knitted separately. The back and front pieces are worked from the cast-on edge upward in stocking stitch after an initial ribbed section. Sleeve shaping is incorporated through strategic decreases, and the neckline is shaped through progressive decreases on the front shoulders. Finishing involves picking up stitches around the neckline to create a neat border and attaching the button closure, making this an ideal project for advancing knitters seeking to develop garment assembly and shaping skills.