Enchanted Forest Baby Hooded Cardigan Free Pattern
Enchanted Forest Baby Hooded Cardigan Free Pattern
Introduction
Wrap your little one in the warmth of the Enchanted Forest with this beautifully textured, seamless hooded cardigan. Perfect for toddlers aged 2-3 years, this design features intricate cable details and a cozy hood to keep them snug during chilly adventures. With this free pattern, you can create a delightful piece that combines comfort and style, making it a perfect addition to your child's wardrobe.
Materials Needed
- Yarn: Worsted weight, 100% merino wool
- Needles: US 8 (5mm) circular needles
- Gauge: 18 stitches and 24 rows = 4 inches in stockinette stitch
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Begin with the Body
Start by casting on 120 stitches using your US 8 circular needles. Make sure to join in the round carefully to avoid twisting the stitches.
Next, work in 2x2 ribbing (knit 2, purl 2) for 2 inches. This will create a nice stretchy edge.
After completing the ribbing, switch to stockinette stitch (knit every round) and continue until the piece measures 10 inches from the cast-on edge.
2. Divide for Sleeves
Now, it's time to create the sleeves. Place 30 stitches on a holder for each sleeve, leaving 60 stitches for the body. You will work on the body first.
Continue working the body in stockinette stitch until it measures 15 inches from the cast-on edge.
3. Create the Sleeves
Transfer the 30 stitches from the holder back to your needles. To create the underarm, pick up an additional 10 stitches from the body. You should now have 40 stitches on your needles for the sleeve.
Work in the round in stockinette stitch for 8 inches.
4. Decrease for Cuff
To shape the cuff, perform a knit 2 together (K2tog) decrease around the sleeve. This will reduce the stitch count to 20 stitches.
Now, work in 2x2 ribbing for 2 inches. Once completed, bind off the cuff. Repeat this process for the second sleeve.
5. Create the Hood
For the hood, pick up 60 stitches around the neckline. Work in stockinette stitch while incorporating a central cable pattern. To do this, create an 8-stitch cable every 6 rows.
Continue this pattern until the hood measures 8 inches from the picked-up edge. Once done, bind off and seam the top of the hood together.
6. Finishing Touches
Finally, weave in all loose ends using a tapestry needle. To give your cardigan a polished look, block the piece gently to shape it properly.
Congratulations! You have now completed the Enchanted Forest Baby Hooded Cardigan. Your little one will surely enjoy the warmth and coziness of this beautifully crafted garment!
