Sirdar Colour Block Duffle & Blanket Knitting Pattern

Sirdar Colour Block Duffle & Blanket

What Is Being Made

This pattern set includes two coordinated projects: a hooded jacket (duffle) designed for babies aged 0-24 months, and a matching blanket. The hooded jacket features a classic duffle silhouette with button fastening, while the blanket is a generous square throw measuring approximately 90 x 90 cm (35½" x 35½"). Both pieces showcase a vibrant colour block design using four complementary yarn shades from the Sirdar Snuggly range.

Garment Details: Hooded Jacket

The hooded jacket is tailored for infants and toddlers, with six size options ranging from 0-3 months through 18-24 months. The jacket features a fitted chest measurement starting at 42 cm (16½") for newborns and extending to 53 cm (21") for the largest size. The full length ranges from 29 cm (11½") to 41 cm (16"), with sleeve lengths progressing from 15 cm (6") to 24 cm (9½"). The design includes a functional hood and button closures, with six buttons required for the smallest sizes and eight buttons for larger sizes.

Garment Details: Blanket

The matching blanket is a substantial square throw with generous dimensions of 90 x 90 cm (35½" x 35½"), making it suitable for use as a pram blanket, play mat, or decorative throw. The blanket uses the same colour block technique as the jacket, creating visual cohesion between the two pieces.

Techniques and Construction

Both the jacket and blanket are constructed using fundamental knitting techniques suitable for beginners. The colour block design is achieved by working with four distinct yarn shades strategically placed throughout the pattern to create visual interest and modern appeal. The pattern employs double knitting as the primary construction method, which creates a smooth, durable fabric ideal for baby garments. The hooded jacket includes shaping for the armholes, neckline, and hood, while the blanket uses straightforward flat knitting to create the large square format.

Stitches Used

The pattern utilizes double knitting stitch as the foundation technique. This stitch creates a dense, even fabric with excellent drape and durability, making it particularly suitable for baby garments that require frequent washing and gentle care. The double knitting method produces a smooth surface that showcases the colour blocking effectively while maintaining the softness essential for delicate infant skin.

Yarn and Materials

Both projects are worked in Sirdar Snuggly Double Knitting (DK), Britain's best-selling baby yarn. The pattern calls for four coordinating shades:

• Shade 484 Cherry Pie (Yarn A)
• Shade 516 Treasure (Yarn B)
• Shade 477 Twinkle Toes (Yarn C)
• Shade 303 Cream (Yarn D)

For the jacket, yarn requirements vary by size: Yarns A, B, and C each require 1 ball for sizes 0-3 months through 12-18 months, increasing to 2 balls for the largest 18-24 month size; Yarn D requires 2 balls across all sizes. For the blanket, Yarn A requires 3 balls, Yarns B and C each require 2 balls, and Yarn D requires 4 balls. Each ball of Sirdar Snuggly DK contains 50g of fibre.

Sirdar Snuggly DK is specifically formulated to be gentle on baby's tender skin, having undergone rigorous testing to ensure softness and durability through repeated washing. The yarn is available in traditional pastel shades, soft contemporary colours, and modern bright tones, with this particular colour combination creating a contemporary rainbow effect suitable for modern nurseries.

Needles and Equipment

The pattern requires two pairs of knitting needles: 4mm (UK8 – USA6) needles for the main fabric and 3¼mm (UK10 – USA3) needles for ribbed edgings and finishing. A stitch holder is also necessary for managing stitches during construction of the hood and neckline shaping.

Difficulty Level and Suitability

Classified as a beginner-friendly pattern, this design is suitable for knitters new to garment construction. Sirdar patterns are triple-checked to guarantee success, providing confidence