Sirdar Cabled Cardigans Knitting Pattern

Sirdar Cabled Cardigans for Babies

What is Being Made

This pattern collection features baby cardigans designed for infants aged 0-24 months, offered in two distinct styles: a V Neck Cardigan and a Shawl Collar Cardigan. Both designs are created using Sirdar Snuggly Spots double knitting yarn, a soft and gentle yarn specifically formulated for delicate baby skin. The cardigans are available in six size options ranging from 0-3 months through 18-24 months, with chest measurements from 42 cm to 56 cm and full lengths from 25 cm to 36 cm.

Techniques Used

These cardigans are constructed using bottom-up knitting methodology, meaning the pieces are worked from the cast-on edge upward. The garments are worked flat on needles rather than in the round, allowing for straightforward shaping and stitch manipulation. The finished pieces are then seamed together to create the complete cardigan. This approach provides excellent control over fit and allows for precise cable placement and alignment across the garment pieces.

Stitches and Cable Details

The primary stitch structure utilizes cable stitches, which are a hallmark of this Sirdar design. Cables are created by crossing groups of stitches over one another to form twisted, rope-like textures that add visual interest and dimension to the finished garment. These cable patterns are worked throughout the body and sleeves, creating a classic, textured aesthetic suitable for baby knitwear. The cable work requires intermediate knitting skills, as managing cable crosses and maintaining consistent tension is essential for professional-looking results.

Materials: Yarn and Needles

The pattern specifies Sirdar Snuggly Spots DK (double knitting weight) yarn for construction. This yarn is available in multiple colorways including shade 434 for the V Neck Cardigan and additional shades for the Shawl Collar Cardigan. Each ball contains 50 grams of yarn, with yardage appropriate for double knitting weight. The number of balls required varies by size, ranging from 2 balls for the smallest 0-3 month size to 4 balls for the largest 18-24 month size.

Sirdar Snuggly Spots is a standard double knitting weight yarn, making it versatile and compatible with any Snuggly double knitting pattern. The yarn features a distinctive spotted pattern in softly dappled shades, adding decorative detail even to simple stitch patterns. The yarn has been rigorously tested to ensure it remains soft and gentle through repeated washing, meeting the stringent safety and comfort requirements for baby garments.

While specific needle sizes are not detailed in the provided pattern excerpt, double knitting projects typically require UK sizes 10-11 (3-4 mm) needles. Knitters should refer to the complete pattern instructions for exact needle specifications and gauge requirements.

Additional Pattern Details

Each cardigan style features button closures, with 4-5 buttons required depending on the size selected. The pattern includes comprehensive sizing information with measurements for chest width, total length, and sleeve length across all six age categories. This design is classified as Intermediate level, reflecting the cable work complexity and seaming requirements involved in construction.

Sirdar, established in West Yorkshire in 1880, is a British yarn company renowned for its heritage in hand knitting. The Snuggly line specifically represents the brand's commitment to creating comfortable, safe knitwear for babies and young children, with each yarn formulation tested to guarantee quality and durability through regular washing.