Sirdar Cardigan and Pullover Knitting Pattern

Sirdar Cardigan and Pullover in Snuggly DK

What Is Being Made

This pattern provides instructions for creating a cardigan and matching pullover sweater designed for infants and toddlers aged birth to 2 years. The set offers two distinct garment options using the same yarn and construction methods, allowing crafters to choose between a buttoned cardigan or a pullover sweater. Both garments feature coordinated sizing across six age ranges, from newborn (0-3 months) through 1-2 years, with chest measurements ranging from 42 cm (16½") to 56 cm (22").

Techniques Used

The garments are constructed using several key knitting techniques to achieve a well-fitted, professional finish:

• Bottom-up construction: Pieces are knitted from the lower edge upward, allowing for easy adjustments and try-ons during the knitting process
• Worked flat: Individual pieces are created on straight needles before assembly
• Worked in the round: Circular needles are used for certain sections, particularly the yoke area, to create seamless transitions and reduce finishing work
• Seamed assembly: Finished pieces are sewn together using mattress stitch or similar seaming techniques for a neat, durable join
• Striped design: The sweater version features color work with two contrasting shades of Snuggly DK yarn (shade 460 and shade 344), creating visual interest through horizontal stripes
• Raglan shaping: The pattern includes raglan armhole decreases, which create diagonal seam lines from underarm to neckline for a classic, comfortable fit

Stitches Used

The pattern employs fundamental knitting stitches to create texture and structure:

• Stocking stitch: The primary stitch used throughout both garments, creating a smooth, flat fabric with characteristic V-shaped columns on the right side
• Textured pattern: Incorporated alongside stocking stitch to add visual depth and interest to the finished pieces
• Ribbing: Used for cuffs, waistbands, and necklines to create elasticity and a neat, finished edge that hugs the body

Materials and Tools Required

Yarn: The pattern calls for Sirdar Snuggly DK, a double-knitting weight yarn ideal for baby garments due to its softness and easy-care properties. For the cardigan, use shade 484 in quantities ranging from 2 to 3 balls (50g each) depending on size. For the sweater, combine shade 460 (Yarn A) and shade 344 (Yarn B), requiring 2-3 balls of shade 460 and 1 ball of shade 344 across all sizes.

Needles: The pattern requires two sets of straight knitting needles—a pair of 4mm (UK size 8 / USA size 6) needles for main fabric and a pair of 3¼mm (UK size 10 / USA size 3) needles for ribbed edgings. For the sweater version, two circular needles are also needed: one 4mm (UK8 / USA6) and one 3¼mm (UK10 / USA3), both 80cm in length, to accommodate working the yoke in the round.

Notions: The cardigan version requires 3 Sirdar Elegant Buttons (code B5680 - 0104) for the front closure. Stitch holders are necessary for holding stitches during yoke construction and shaping.

Tension and Sizing

The pattern specifies a tension of 22 stitches and 28 rows over 10 cm (4") when working stocking stitch and textured pattern on 4mm needles. Achieving correct tension is essential for proper fit, as the garments are sized for specific age ranges with precise chest, width, and length measurements. Six size options accommodate growth from newborn through 2 years, with sleeve lengths ranging from 16 cm (6¼") for the smallest size to 36 cm (9¾") for the largest.