Baby Unicorn Cardigan and Hat

Baby Unicorn Cardigan and Hat by iKnitDesigns

What is Being Made

The Baby Unicorn Cardigan and Hat is a coordinating two-piece knitting project designed by Denny Gould for iKnitDesigns. This set includes a charming button-front cardigan and a matching hat, both featuring a whimsical unicorn motif. The collection is sized to fit babies from newborn through 18 months, with four distinct size options: 0-3 months, 3-6 months, 6-12 months, and 12-18 months. The cardigan features adjustable sleeve length, making it practical for growing babies, while the hat complements the overall design aesthetic.

Sizing and Measurements

• 0-3 months: To fit chest 41 cm (16 in), actual measurement 46 cm (18 in), full length 22 cm (8½ in), adjustable sleeve length 13 cm (5 in)
• 3-6 months: To fit chest 46 cm (18 in), actual measurement 50 cm (20 in), full length 26 cm (10 in), adjustable sleeve length 18 cm (7 in)
• 6-12 months: To fit chest 51 cm (20 in), actual measurement 57 cm (22½ in), full length 30 cm (12 in), adjustable sleeve length 20 cm (8 in)
• 12-18 months: To fit chest 56 cm (22 in), actual measurement 60 cm (24 in), full length 34 cm (13½ in), adjustable sleeve length 25 cm (9½ in)

Knitting Techniques and Stitches

This intermediate-level knitting project employs fundamental knitting techniques suitable for knitters with basic experience. The primary stitch used throughout the cardigan and hat is stocking stitch, which creates a smooth, classic fabric with a distinctive V-pattern on the right side. Stocking stitch is achieved by alternating knit rows on the right side with purl rows on the wrong side, producing an even, professional appearance ideal for baby garments.

The unicorn design is incorporated using intarsia or colorwork techniques, allowing the designer to add the decorative unicorn motif in contrasting colors. The button-front closure requires buttonband construction, where stitches are picked up along the front edges to create a finished band that accommodates the buttons. The adjustable sleeve length feature demonstrates practical shaping and finishing techniques appropriate for growing babies.

Materials and Yarn Requirements

The Baby Unicorn Cardigan and Hat pattern calls for Double Knitting Yarn, a medium-weight yarn that provides durability and easy care for baby garments. Yarn quantities vary by size:

• Sizes 0-3 months and 3-6 months: 150 grams (375 meters / 409 yards) of main color Double Knitting Yarn
• Sizes 6-12 months and 12-18 months: 200 grams (500 meters / 545 yards) of main color Double Knitting Yarn
• Contrast colors: Small amounts of Gold, Pink, and Green Double Knitting Yarn for the unicorn design (approximately 20 meters or 22 yards total)
• Details: Small amount of Black Double Knitting Yarn for the unicorn eyes

Needles and Tension

The pattern requires two pairs of needles in different sizes to create proper fabric density and structure. Knitters will need 1 pair of 4 mm needles (UK size 8 / USA size 6) for the main fabric and 1 pair of 3¼ mm needles (UK size 10 / USA size 3) for ribbed edges and cuffs. The smaller needles create tighter ribbing that holds the garment edges securely.

Achieving the correct tension is essential for proper fit. The pattern specifies 22 stitches and 28 rows to 10 cm (4 inches) over stocking stitch on 4 mm needles. Knitters should work a tension swatch before beginning the project to ensure their finished garment matches the intended dimensions.

Notions and Finishing

The cardigan requires 3 small buttons