Our newest shop sample might be the fastest baby sweater we've knit all year. The Little Bean Cardigan in its bulky version works up so quickly that it's sure to be a favorite for last-minute baby gifts. And this aqua and cream stripe combination has been a hit with everyone who saw it being made.
We also knit the matching striped hat that's included in the pattern to make an easy handmade set, and honestly, the hat alone is a great gift.
About the Yarn
Ewe Ewe Yarns Baa Baa Bulky is a soft, springy merino wool that's particularly well-suited to baby and children's knits. It has great stitch definition, so the stripes and raglan shaping stay crisp and polished even after wear, and the natural bounce helps the finished sweater hold its shape beautifully.
The bulky weight is what makes this such a satisfying project — if you have a baby shower coming up or just want something that knits up over a weekend, this is a good one to reach for.
Design Details
The Little Bean Cardigan is knit top-down with raglan shaping, which makes it easy to adjust length and sleeve fit as you go. The stripes keep things interesting without adding any real complexity, and the simple silhouette makes it a great choice if you're newer to sweater knitting.
The bulky version finishes with classic ribbing and oversized buttons that give it a clean, unfussy look — the kind of sweater that works just as well for daycare as it does for photos. The coordinating hats are worth casting on, too, if you're putting together a gift set.
What You'll Need
- Sweater Sizes: 0-3 mo (3-6 mo, 6-9 mo, 9-12 mo)
- Hat Sizes: 0-6 mo (6-12 mo)
- Gauge: 15 sts & 22 rnds = 4”/10 cm in St st (flat) on larger needles
- Yarn: Baa Baa Bulky by Ewe Ewe Yarns. 2 balls of Color A (shown in Aquamarine) and 1 ball of Color B (shown in Vanilla) for the 9-12 month sweater. See the pattern for yardage for all sizes.
- Needles: US 10 (6 mm) 24-inch circular needle and DPNs or size needed to obtain gauge; US 9 (5.5 mm) 24-inch circular needle and DPNs or 1 size smaller than that used to obtain gauge
- Notions: 4 stitch markers; Removable markers; 4 (5, 5, 5) 3/4" buttons, Scrap yarn, Tapestry needle
- Pattern: Little Coffee Bean Bulky by Elizabeth Smith Knits
Whether you're knitting for a new arrival or building a gift stash, this is a great addition to your pattern library. Stop in, and we'll help you pick the perfect color combination. We have Baa Baa Bulky in the shop and online at loopyarn.com. And if you cast one on, we'd love to see it. Tag us @loopyarn.
