Debbie Bliss Nora Cardigan Knitting Pattern

Debbie Bliss Nora Cardigan

What is Being Made

The Nora Cardigan is a child's button-front cardigan designed to fit ages 2 through 6 years. This garment features a classic cardigan silhouette with long sleeves and a structured fit, available in four graduated sizes with finished chest measurements ranging from 62cm (24½ inches) to 80cm (31½ inches).

Techniques Used

This advanced knitting project employs several sophisticated techniques to create visual interest and structure. The primary construction method is seamed knitting, where separate pieces are knitted flat and then joined together. The cardigan features stranded colorwork, specifically a gingham pattern that incorporates multiple yarn colors worked across rows. The pattern includes raglan armhole shaping, which creates diagonal seams from the underarm to the neckline for a refined fit. Additional shaping techniques include strategic decreases using skpo (slip, knit, pass slipped stitch over) and k2tog (knit two together) to form the raglan decreases and edge shaping. The pattern also incorporates bobble stitches as decorative elements, created by working multiple stitches into a single stitch, turning, and decreasing back down.

Stitches Used

• Gingham pattern – the primary colorwork stitch creating a checked texture throughout the body and sleeves
• Stocking stitch – smooth knit fabric used in sections of the garment
• Ribbing – 2x2 rib (knit 2, purl 2) used for cuffs, waistband, and button bands to create elastic edges
• Bobble stitch – decorative raised texture created by working [k1, p1, k1, p1] into a single stitch, then decreasing back to one stitch
• Decrease stitches – skpo and k2tog used throughout for raglan shaping and edge decreases
• Make one (m1) – increases worked by picking up and working into the back of the loop between stitches

Materials and Gauge

The Nora Cardigan is knitted using Debbie Bliss Baby Cashmerino yarn, a luxury fiber blend ideal for delicate children's garments. The color palette includes four shades: Mist 57 (A) as the primary color requiring 3 to 4 balls depending on size, Lake 301 (B) and Ecru 101 (C) each requiring 2 to 3 balls, and Sienna 67 (D) requiring one ball for accent details. The project requires three pairs of straight knitting needles in graduated sizes: 2.75mm (US 2), 3mm (US 2-3), and 3.25mm (US 3), plus two circular needles in 3mm (US 2-3) and 3.25mm (US 3) sizes for seamless sections. The pattern specifies 8 to 11 buttons depending on size. The working gauge is 26 stitches and 30 rows to a 10cm (4 inch) square over the gingham pattern using 3.25mm (US 3) needles. A critical note in the pattern warns knitters to avoid pulling yarn too tightly across the back of the stranded colorwork, as this distorts the tension and compromises the gingham pattern's appearance.