This gorgeous jacket is knitted entirely in garter stich from the top down on straight needles. There are instructions for two sizes, newborn (5.5lbs – 8lbs) and 0-3 months. The use of stitch markers there is virtually no stitch counting, just keep track first 34 rows using a row counter or pen and paper.

The pattern is written in an easy read format for new knitters and those returning to knitting after a long absence – after all what is going to make you want to pick up your needles more than hearing a baby is on the way? The cardigan takes just over 50g of yarn and the slippers just a few yards; babies grow so fast they will probably only get a few weeks wear so don’t spend too much on yarn.

The pattern recommends the use of Stitch Markers and Row Counters; these two items can save you a lot of trouble if you need to put your knitting down in a hurry – to answer the phone for example – you will find you can easily find your place in the pattern again.
I am referring to ‘on needle’ stitch markers which you pass from the left needle to the right one when you reach it. The marker are visual prompts to follow the pattern and in the case of this pattern save a tremendous amount of stitch counting. I choose small snag free markers which don’t tangle in my work.