Here’s a quick, stylish cardigan to knit now! It’s worked from the top down, which minimizes seaming, as well as giving you the option of different sleeve and body lengths! It’s boxy shape and raglan sleeve shaping is suitable for girls and boys.

The body and sleeves are knit in a basic St st with Garter st and 1x1 ribbing detailing. If you’re adventurous, you can add a little lace panel or try a textured stitch pattern instead. Or, add stripes in a different color or yarn…

The Girl’s Version shown here has 3/4 length sleeves, which are easily converted to the hip short-sleeve length (which you are seeing everywhere this season!) by folding up the garter stitch cuffs. It is knit to hit the top of the hip, but could easily be worked to a more cropped length or to a longer tunic length, if desired.

The yarn used is Brown Sheep Lamb’s Pride Bulky, which comes in 79 gorgeous colors (at last count!).

This pattern includes the Girl’s Version with the 2 buttons and 3/4 length sleeves, as well as the Boy’s Version with buttons all the way down and full-length sleeves. Eight Infant/Toddler to Child Sizes are included, from 6-12 months to 9-10 yrs old.

This is a pattern you will use again and again!

Women’s Top-Down Short-Sleeved Cardigan Knitting Pattern is available as well.

See it discussed on the SweaterBabe.com Blog.

Finished Size(s): Written for sizes 6-12 months (1-1 yrs, 2-3 yrs, 3-4 yrs, 4-5 yrs, 6-7 yrs, 8-9 yrs, 9-10 yrs). Finished Knit Chest Size from 22” 56 cm for smallest size to 37” 94 cm for largest size.

Actual pattern gauge is 8 sts = 3” and 17 rows = 4” in Stockinette Stitch.