I’m excited to share my latest pattern, the Sarah Baby Cardigan! This design offers two options: a simple, timeless version and one with a delicate ruffle around the yoke. Both styles are perfect for babies and are available in sizes newborn, 1-3 months, and 3-6 months.
For knitters who prefer a classic look, the simple version without the ruffle is ideal. If you enjoy adding a bit of flair, the ruffled option gives the cardigan an extra touch of charm. No matter which version you choose, both designs are versatile and perfect for layering during cooler months.
To celebrate the launch, I’m sharing the quick instructions for knitting the newborn size of the simple version (without ruffle) below. This is a perfect little project if you’re looking for something straightforward yet beautiful.
For more detailed instructions, including the ruffled, detailed row by row description of the stitches, photos and more, you can find the full pattern on my Etsy shop.
Instructions
Newborn Size – Simple Version (Without Ruffle)
Garter stitch
Knit all stitches and all rows.
Stockinette stitch
Row 1 (and RS rows): Knit all stitches.
Row 2 (and WS rows): Purl all stitches.
Eyelet Pattern
See charts A (front side) & B (sleeves)
Buttonhole
Combination of knitting 2 sts together & yarn over.
Cardigan
The cardigan is knitted in one piece, starting at the yoke and continuing through the sleeves and body.
The pattern features an eyelet design starting at the raglan increases (on the front sides and sleeves), which continues down the sleeves and along the front.
Buttonholes: Throughout the project, make 4 buttonholes on the right buttoning strip, on RS rows and 2 sts from the edge. Place the first buttonhole on row 3, and the subsequent buttonholes 24 rows apart.
Yoke
With 2.5 mm needles, cast on 76 sts and work 4 rows in Garter stitch to form the neckline.
RAGLAN SECTION
Place markers “|” as highlighted below:
14 sts left front | 2 raglan sts | 7 sts left sleeve | 2 raglan sts | 26 sts back side | 2 raglan sts | 7 sts right sleeve | 2 raglan sts | 14 sts right front
Work 42 rows in a Stockinette and Eyelet design, following Charts A and B for the eyelet pattern, while increasing 42|x 8 sts on RS rows, on each side of the 2 raglan sts (=8 increases per row).
Keep 4 sts in Garter stitch at each end for the buttoning strip. The 2 raglan sts that divide the front, back, and sleeves should also be worked in Garter stitch.
Row 5 (RS): [K4] K10 YO | K2 | YO K7 YO | K2 | YO K26 YO | K2 | YO K7 YO | K2 | YO K10 [K4]
Row 6 (WS): [K4] P11 | K2 | P9 | K2 | P28 | K2 | P9 | K2 | P11 [K4]
Continue in this pattern, increasing as directed (=244 sts at end of raglan increases).
DIVIDE FOR BODY AND SLEEVES
Divide the stitches as indicated and work the body (=106 sts) and sleeves (=51| sts) separately:
Left front half (36 sts) | Left sleeve (51 sts) | Back (70 sts) | Right sleeve (51 sts) | Right front half (36 sts).
Sleeves
Cast on 1 st at each end for the armholes (=53 sts) and work 48 rows in combination of Stockinette stitch and Eyelet pattern (chart B). Starting on row 8 from the beginning of the sleeve, work one row in Garter stitch (this will be a WS side row), and then every 16th row thereafter. This will create a decorative raised line throughout the sleeves.
Starting on row 15 from beginning of sleeve, decrease 6 x2 sts on RS rows, 2 sts from each edge, and every 6 rows (=41 sts at end of decreases).
Work 8 rows in Garter stitch.
Bind (cast) off all stitches.
Work the second sleeve in the same way.
Body
Pick up body stitches left on hold (=142 sts).
Cast on 2 sts for each armhole (=146 sts) and work 32 rows in Stockinette stitch for back side and eyelet pattern for front pieces. Similar to the sleeves, introduce a row in Garter stitch starting on row 8 counting from the beginning of the body, and then every 16th row thereafter.
Work 10 rows in Garter stitch.
Bind (cast) off all stitches.
Finishing
Sew the sleeve seams.
Sew buttons to align with the buttonholes.
Weave in all ends.
Abbreviations
cm = centimeters gr = grams K = knit m = meters mm = millimeters P = purl | RS = right side st(s) = stitch(es) WS = wrong side YO = Yarn over |
Charts
Measurements
If you’d like to knit the other sizes, or explore the full pattern with the ruffle option and additional details (row by row descriptions of the stitches, diagrams, and photos), the full pattern is available now on my Etsy store.
Why You'll Love This Pattern:
Two Styles in One Pattern: Choose between a simple classic look or a playful ruffle for added charm.
Beginner-Friendly: Clear, step-by-step instructions to guide you through the process, whether you’re knitting the simple or ruffled version.
Sizes: The pattern covers sizes newborn, 1-3 months, and 3-6 months.
Download it today and start knitting something special for the little ones in your life.
I can’t wait to see your finished creations! Don’t forget to share your projects with me on Instagram tagging @CuddlyBabyKnitwear.
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