Easy Baby Cardigan Knitting Pattern (Newborn to 6 Months Step-by-Step Guide)

Name: Knitting Knife by Chinki
Address: Himachal Pradesh, IN
Telephone: +91-7018228065
Price range: ₹1,200 - ₹5,000

2026-04-05 · 8 min read · Tutorial · By Chinki

A two-colour baby cardigan with exact measurements, textured pattern rows, and adjustable sizing from newborn to 6 months. Everything you need — cast on to finished cardigan.

This baby cardigan is designed for newborns up to 6 months and uses a two-colour design that's adjustable as the baby grows. Chinki recommends buying a little extra yarn so you can extend the length later — a practical touch that experienced knitters will appreciate.

Measurements

Length from armhole: approximately 6.5 inches
Chest width: approximately 7.5 inches
Sleeve length: approximately 6–6.5 inches

Materials

Yarn in 2 colours
3 mm (size 11) knitting needles
Buttons
Tapestry needle

Step 1: Cast On and Ribbed Border

Cast on 122 stitches. Knit a ribbed border using 2 knit, 2 purl for several rows. Then increase every 6th stitch by knitting one stitch twice — this brings the total to approximately 142 stitches. Knit 2 foundation rows.

Step 2: Textured Pattern Section

Work the textured stitch pattern using a combination of knit, purl, and loop techniques. Repeat the pattern rows to build approximately 52 rows — or whatever length your measurements require.

After completing the pattern section, decrease stitches evenly across the row (every 5th stitch) and continue until you reach the armhole.

Step 3: Divide for Front and Back

Separate your stitches into two front panels and one back panel. Shape armholes by decreasing stitches gradually on both sides.

Step 4: Sleeves

Pick up stitches from the armhole edges
Increase to approximately 43 stitches for sleeve width
Knit pattern rows, increasing and decreasing as needed for shaping
Complete both sleeves identically

Step 5: Join and Shape

Bring all stitches back onto one needle and continue knitting the body in pattern. Decrease gradually — every 5th stitch, then every 4th, then every 3rd — to taper the shape toward the hem.

Step 6: Collar

Start ribbing (knit 2, purl 2) at the neckline. Add increases if needed for a comfortable fit around the neck. Knit several rows and bind off loosely so the collar doesn't restrict.

Step 7: Button Band and Finishing

Pick up stitches along the front edge
Knit ribbing and create evenly-spaced buttonholes
Repeat on the other side (without buttonholes)
Sew the sides neatly and attach buttons

Written by Chinki — Knitting Knife, Himachal Pradesh, India.