The Little Nydia Cardigan—an adorable, miniaturized version of the adult cardigan with the same name—is the perfect sweater for all the knitworthy kiddos in our lives. Its classic shape and fit ensure it will be wearable with a variety of items in any little one’s wardrobe; they need layering pieces too!

Worked seamlessly from the top down with short row neckline and compound raglan shaping, this cardigan features lateral braids that separate the ribbed edgings from the focal stitch pattern, a simple yet luxurious all-over lace texture. The tiny size together with a DK weight yarn make for a fun, quick-to-knit garment that will be a joy to see on the intended recipient. If you’re knitting for a child old enough to pick out their own clothes, pair their favorite color with some fun buttons to make it the sweater they want to wear over and over!

SIZES
1 (2, 3, 4, 5) [6, 7, 8, 9]

To Fit Ages: 3–6 months (6–12 months, 12–18 months, 18–24 months, 2–4 years) [4–6 years, 6–8 years, 8–10 years, 10–12 years]

FINISHED CHEST CIRCUMFERENCES

• In Inches: 18.75 (19.5, 20.25, 21.75, 22.5) [24, 26, 29, 30.5]”
• In Centimeters: 47 (49, 50.5, 54.5, 56) [60, 65, 72.5, 76] cm

Circumferences are for the finished cardigan worn closed. Cardigan is intended to fit with approximately 2” (5 cm) of positive ease at the chest. Sample shown in size 5 on a 2-year-old.

YARN
295 (346, 407, 462, 501) [639, 747, 900, 1018] yards / 270 (317, 373, 422, 458) [584, 683, 823, 931] meters plied, DK weight yarn

Sample shown in Hazel Knits Lively DK [DK weight, 90% superwash merino wool, 10% nylon] in colorway ‘Loden.’ ‘Golden Fleck’ acrylic buttons made by Twin Mountain Handcrafts in custom size.

NEEDLES

• US 6 (4 mm) circular needle, 32” (80 cm), or needle size necessary to obtain correct gauge
• US 4 (3.5 mm) circular needle, 32” (80 cm), or needle size .5 mm smaller than gauge needle
• Appropriate needle(s) in both sizes for your preferred method of knitting small circumferences in the round

GAUGE
22 sts and 30 rows/rounds = 4” (10 cm) in textured lace pattern using larger needles, blocked

NOTIONS

• (8) Stitch markers, for raglan lines

• (2) Removable markers, to mark short row turns (optional) and centers of underarms

• Crochet hook, size D (3.25 mm) or slightly smaller

• Tapestry needle

• Waste yarn or two spare circular needles/cords, for placing sleeve stitches on hold

• Sewing needle and thread (ball point needle and 100% polyester thread recommended)

• 6 (6, 8, 8, 8) [10, 10, 12, 12] 7/16” (11 mm) or ½“ (12 mm) buttons