Sirdar Baby Pocket Dungarees in Snuggly Cashmere Merino (Free)

Sirdar Baby Pocket Dungarees in Snuggly Cashmere Merino

What is Being Made

These are baby dungarees (also called rompers or overalls) designed for infants aged 0-2 years. The garment features practical pocket detailing and is sized to grow with your baby through six different age ranges: 0-3 months, 3-6 months, 6-9 months, 9-12 months, 12-18 months, and 18-24 months. Chest measurements range from 42 cm (16½") for newborns to 56 cm (22") for toddlers, with full length varying from 39 cm (15½") to 67 cm (26½") depending on the size selected.

Knitting Techniques

This intermediate-level pattern uses a bottom-up construction method, meaning you begin knitting from the lower edge and work upward toward the shoulders and neckline. The garment is worked flat on straight needles rather than in the round, and pieces are seamed together after completion. This traditional approach allows for straightforward shaping and pocket placement throughout the project.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The primary stitch used is stocking stitch (also known as stockinette stitch), which creates the smooth, classic knit fabric visible on the right side of the work. This fundamental stitch pattern is combined with pattern stitches as indicated in the design instructions to create texture and visual interest, particularly around the pocket details. The gauge is measured at 22 stitches and 28 rows over 10 cm (4 inches) in stocking stitch, which is essential for achieving the correct finished measurements.

Materials Required

The pattern calls for Sirdar Snuggly Cashmere Merino yarn in double knitting (DK) weight. This premium yarn blends the softest cashmere with natural pure merino wool, creating a fiber that is exceptionally soft against delicate baby skin while remaining durable through repeated washing. The yarn comes in 50g balls, with quantities ranging from 2 balls for the smallest size (0-3 months) to 5 balls for the largest size (18-24 months). The recommended shade is 467 Silver, though alternative colors from the Snuggly range are available, including 470 Leaf, 452 Baby Blue, and 472 Corn.

You will need one pair of 4mm (UK size 8 / USA size 6) knitting needles for the main fabric and one pair of 3¼mm (UK size 10 / USA size 3) knitting needles for ribbed edgings or cuffs. A stitch holder is also necessary for holding stitches while working other sections. The pattern requires two buttons (Sirdar Elegant Button Code B5611-0785) to fasten the dungarees.

Design Features

This is Design No. 5485 from Sirdar, an established British yarn company founded in West Yorkshire in 1880. The pattern has been triple-checked by Sirdar to guarantee success for knitters following the instructions. The dungarees are part of the Baby Naturals collection, specifically designed as a light layering piece to keep babies cosy on fresh spring days. The inclusion of pockets adds both practical functionality and charming detail to this classic baby garment.