ALECTO cardigan

ALECTO Cardigan by Studio Noamine

Garment Overview

The ALECTO is a hooded cardigan designed for babies and young children, featuring a full-length separating zipper, functional pockets, and a charming two-color striped design. This knitted cardigan is crafted from Baby Merino by Drops, a luxurious 100% merino wool yarn that provides softness and breathability ideal for delicate infant skin. The pattern is available in multiple sizes ranging from newborn (0-2 months) through toddler (3-4 years), with chest widths from 49 cm to 64 cm and total lengths from 26 cm to 42 cm.

Yarn and Materials

This project uses sport weight yarn in a two-color combination. The primary color is Grey 19 (col 1), with a secondary accent color in either Ice blue 11 or Lt pink 05 (col 2). Yarn requirements vary by size: the smallest size requires 3 balls of the primary color and 2 balls of the secondary color, while the largest size (3-4 years) requires 4 balls of each color. The yarn's merino wool composition offers natural temperature regulation and durability through repeated wear and washing.

Needles and Tools

Construction requires 2½ mm and 3 mm straight knitting needles for the main fabric, along with a 2½ mm circular knitting needle for ribbed edgings and neckline work. Additional supplies include a separating zipper (available in lengths of 25 cm, 30 cm, or 35 cm depending on size) and either a stitch holder or an extra 3 mm needle for holding stitches during construction.

Gauge and Tension

The pattern specifies a gauge of 32 stitches and 44 rows over 10 cm when working the structure knit with 3 mm needles. Achieving correct gauge is essential for proper fit and accurate yarn consumption. Knitters should adjust needle size if their gauge is too tight or too loose: use larger needles if stitches are compressed, or smaller needles if the fabric appears loose and airy.

Stitches and Techniques

The ALECTO employs structure knit as its primary stitch pattern, which creates a textured, dimensional fabric. The garment features a striped pattern created by alternating between the two yarn colors. Row 1 (right side) is worked in knit stitch, with the stripe report indicating that rows 1-2 are worked in the primary color (col 1) before transitioning to the secondary color. This systematic color alternation builds the visual interest of the finished cardigan while maintaining consistent stitch structure throughout.

Construction Details

Key design features include a hood for extra warmth and protection, pockets for practical functionality, and a full-length separating zipper for easy dressing and undressing. The use of circular needles for ribbed sections ensures smooth, professional-looking edges that frame the garment. The pattern is designed as an intermediate level project, suitable for knitters with foundational skills who are ready to tackle multi-piece construction, color work, and zipper insertion.

Sizing Information

• 0-2 months: Chest 49 cm, Length 26 cm
• 3-6 months: Chest 52 cm, Length 29 cm
• 9 months: Chest 54 cm, Length 32 cm
• 1 year: Chest 57 cm, Length 35 cm
• 1½ years: Chest 59 cm, Length 37 cm
• 2 years: Chest 62 cm, Length 39 cm
• 3-4 years: Chest 64 cm, Length 42 cm

Pattern Format and Use

The ALECTO cardigan is provided as a downloadable PDF pattern for personal use only. The pattern includes detailed measurements, yarn requirements for each size, gauge specifications, and construction instructions. This format allows knitters to print the pattern or view it digitally while working, making it convenient for following along during the knitting process.