13" Dolls Cardigan

13" Dolls Cardigan by SusieDDesigns

What is Being Made

The Hyacinth Cardigan is a short-sleeved cardigan designed specifically for 32/33cm (12.5/13") dolls, including Paola Reina Las Amigas dolls and other similarly-sized doll companions. This beginner-friendly knitting pattern creates a charming garment suitable for pairing with floral dresses and other doll outfits. The cardigan is knitted as a single flat piece starting from the back, then seamed at the sides and under the arms for a finished appearance.

Techniques Used

This pattern employs fundamental knitting techniques appropriate for beginners. The cardigan is knitted flat, meaning it is worked back and forth on straight needles rather than in the round. The construction method begins with the back piece and progresses upward from the bottom edge. Once all pieces are complete, seaming is used to join the side seams and underarm sections, creating the finished three-dimensional garment. This approach allows for straightforward shaping and a clean, professional finish.

Stitches Used

The Hyacinth Cardigan combines two primary stitch patterns to create visual interest and structure:

• Stocking Stitch (Stockinette Stitch): Forms the main body of the cardigan, creating a smooth, classic fabric with a distinctive V-pattern texture on the right side
• Garter Stitch: Used for the ribs and edging throughout the garment, providing elasticity at the cuffs, neckline, and hem while adding decorative definition

The combination of these stitches creates a balanced design where the garter stitch ribs frame and define the stocking stitch body sections.

Materials

This pattern requires DK weight yarn (also known as double knit, light worsted, or 8ply), with approximately 50g of yarn needed to complete the cardigan. A 2mm needle (US size 0) is used to work with the DK yarn, creating a close, refined knit fabric appropriate for the small scale of a 13-inch doll. The small needle size combined with the yarn weight produces the precise gauge necessary for a well-fitted garment on a doll of this size.