The Novice Cardigan Mini – Chunky Edition is a beautifully simple children's cardigan worked from the top down, making it an ideal project for knitters looking for a straightforward, rewarding knit. This classic design features a round yoke shaped with evenly distributed increases, creating a comfortable, timeless silhouette that suits little ones perfectly.
The cardigan begins with a ribbed neck edge, followed by the yoke, body, and sleeves. The main body is worked in stockinette stitch, while the edges are finished in rib for a polished, professional look. The construction is intuitive and the pattern is designed to be accessible, making it a wonderful choice for building confidence and skills.
Worked in a luxurious blend of chunky wool and silk mohair held together, this cardigan knits up quickly and creates a soft, warm fabric with a beautiful halo and drape. The double-strand technique adds depth and richness to the finished garment, perfect for layering through cooler months.
Sizes & Fit
Sizes:
1-2 (2-3) 3-4 (4-5) 5-6 years
Finished Measurements
Bust circumference:
65 (68) 72 (74) 76 cm
[25½ (26¾) 28¼ (29¼) 30 inches]
Length (measured mid back):
37 (39) 40 (42) 44 cm
[14½ (15¼) 15¾ (16½) 17¼ inches]
Gauge
14 stitches × 21 rows = 10 × 10 cm
[4 × 4 inches]
Stockinette stitch on 7 mm needles
Needles
Circular needles:
• 6 mm [US 10]
• 7 mm [no US equivalent]
• 80 cm [32 inches] cable
Double-pointed needles:
• 6 mm [US 10]
• 7 mm [no US equivalent]
Yarn & Materials
This cardigan is knit using two strands of yarn held together throughout: one strand of chunky wool and one strand of silk mohair.
Yarn used:
• 12ply Yarn (50 g = 150 m)
• 2ply Mohair Yarn (25 g = 212 m)
Total yarn required (all sizes)
-
12ply: 150 g (all sizes)
-
2ply Mohair: 50 g for sizes 1-2 through 4-5; 50-75 g for size 5-6
Note: The given yardage is the total yardage needed.
Notions:
6 buttons (ø = 15–18 mm)
Difficulty
★ (1 out of 5)
Beginner-friendly
