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Easy Top-Down Baby Cardigan Knitting Pattern

Knitting for little ones is a joyful experience, and what could be more delightful than creating a cosy cardigan for a precious baby? An easy top-down baby cardigan is a great project for both beginners and seasoned knitters looking for a quick yet satisfying knit. This article will guide you through a simple pattern to craft a charming baby cardigan that combines comfort and cuteness.

Materials Needed

Before you start, gather the following materials:

• Yarn: A soft, baby-friendly yarn (approximately 200-300g, depending on the size). Look for a DK (double knitting) weight yarn that is machine washable and gentle on a baby’s skin.
• Needles: A pair of 4mm (US 6) circular knitting needles (or size needed to obtain the correct gauge) and a pair of 4mm (US 6) double-pointed needles (DPNs) or a second circular needle for the sleeves.
• Stitch markers: To help you keep track of your stitches.
• Tapestry needle: For weaving in ends.
• Scissors: For cutting your yarn.

Gauge

Before starting, it’s essential to knit a gauge swatch. Aim for 22 stitches and 30 rows per 10cm (4 inches) in stockinette stitch. Adjust your needle size if necessary to achieve the correct tension.

Pattern Instructions

This cardigan is knitted in one piece from the top down, which simplifies finishing and avoids seams.

Size Guide: This pattern is designed for sizes ranging from newborn to 12 months. Simply adjust the number of stitches to scale up for larger sizes.

Cast On:

1. Cast on 80 stitches using the long-tail cast-on method. Place a stitch marker after the first 40 stitches to indicate the back.

Yoke:

1. Knit in stockinette stitch (knit one row, purl one row) until the work measures approximately 10cm (4 inches) from the cast-on edge, ensuring you have formed a gentle curve for the neck.

2. Next, divide the work as follows:
   • Knit the first 24 stitches (left front), place a marker, knit the next 32 stitches (back), place another marker, and knit the last 24 stitches (right front).

Body:

1. For the body, you will knit the back section first:

   • Continue in stockinette stitch until the body measures 20cm (8 inches) from the underarm (you can adjust this length based on preference).
2. Now to add sleeves. Place the stitches of the left front on a holder or DPN, then knit 12 stitches from the back section onto a DPN or a second circular needle to form the left sleeve. Knit across the back stitches and then pick up 12 stitches from the right front and place them on a holder or DPN.

Sleeves:

1. For each sleeve:

   • Knit in stockinette stitch until the sleeve measures 15cm (6 inches) or your desired sleeve length. Decrease by knitting two stitches together at the end of every 6th row, until you have approximately 24 stitches left.
2. After finishing both sleeves, continue with the body for an additional 5cm (2 inches) below the arms to finish the body.

Bottom Hem:

1. To finish, knit 4 rows in ribbing (k2, p2) around the hem, then cast off loosely.

Finishing

1. Weave in all loose ends using the tapestry needle.
2. Block your cardigan to gently shape the piece and enhance the fabric’s drape.
3. Optionally, sew on some cute buttons or decorative embellishments to make it unique.

Conclusion

Knitting a top-down baby cardigan is not only a fantastic way to celebrate a new arrival but also an opportunity to personalise their wardrobe with a handmade touch. The simplicity of this pattern makes it accessible for all skill levels while allowing room for creativity. Choose bright colours or pastels, and watch as your creation transforms into a beloved garment for a little one. Happy knitting!

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