How to Knit a Baby Dress

Knitting a baby dress can be a delightful project! Here's a basic pattern for a simple knitted baby dress. You can customize it by choosing different colors, stitch patterns, and embellishments. Please note that sizing can vary, so make sure to adjust the measurements based on the baby's age and size.

Materials:

• Worsted weight yarn (about 300-400 yards, depending on size and length)
• Circular knitting needles (16" or 40 cm) in size US 7 (4.5 mm)
• Double-pointed needles (DPNs) in the same size for the sleeves and neckline
• Stitch markers
• Yarn needle for weaving in ends
• Buttons or other fasteners (optional)

Gauge: 18 stitches and 24 rows = 4 inches (10 cm) in stockinette stitch

Size: This pattern is for a 6-12 months size. Adjust the number of stitches and rows for different sizes.

Abbreviations:

• CO: Cast on
• K: Knit
• P: Purl
• K2tog: Knit two stitches together (decrease)
• PM: Place marker

Instructions:

Skirt:

1. Using the circular needles, CO 120 stitches. Join in the round, being careful not to twist the stitches. Place a stitch marker to mark the beginning of the round.

2. Work in K1, P1 ribbing for about 1 inch (2.5 cm).

3. Switch to stockinette stitch (knit every round) and work until the skirt measures about 4 inches (10 cm) from the ribbing.

Bodice: Switch to knitting the bodice portion.

4. Knit 30 stitches, PM, knit 60 stitches, PM, knit 30 stitches.

5. Continue knitting all stitches for the next 1.5 inches (4 cm).

6. Begin shaping the armholes:
   • Row 1 (RS): Knit until 2 stitches before the first marker, K2tog, slip marker, knit until second marker, slip marker, K2tog, knit to end of row.
   • Row 2 (WS): Purl all stitches.
7. Repeat Rows 1 and 2 a total of 4 times more (5 sets of decreases).

8. Continue knitting all stitches until the bodice measures about 2.5 inches (6.5 cm) from the beginning of the armhole shaping.

Neckline: Switch to knitting the neckline.

9. Knit 30 stitches, remove marker, slip the next 30 stitches onto a spare needle or stitch holder, remove marker, knit the remaining 30 stitches.

10. Work the front and back separately for the neckline shaping.

11. Row 1 (RS): K2, K2tog, knit to last 4 stitches, K2tog, K2.

12. Row 2 (WS): Purl all stitches.

13. Repeat Rows 1 and 2 a total of 3 times more (4 sets of decreases).

14. Knit 1 row.

15. Switch to K1, P1 ribbing and work for about 1 inch (2.5 cm).

16. Bind off all stitches in pattern.

Sleeves:

17. Pick up and knit 24 stitches around the armhole.

18. Work in K1, P1 ribbing for about 1 inch (2.5 cm).

19. Switch to stockinette stitch and work for about 1.5 inches (4 cm).

20. Begin sleeve shaping:

• Row 1 (RS): K2, K2tog, knit to last 4 stitches, K2tog, K2.
• Row 2 (WS): Purl all stitches.

21. Repeat Rows 1 and 2 a total of 4 times more (5 sets of decreases).

22. Switch to K1, P1 ribbing and work for about 1 inch (2.5 cm).

23. Bind off all stitches in pattern.

Finishing:

24. Sew the side seams of the skirt and bodice using the mattress stitch or your preferred seaming method.

25. Sew the sleeve seams using the mattress stitch.

26. Weave in all loose ends using the yarn needle.

27. Attach buttons or other fasteners to the back of the dress if desired.

Your baby dress is now complete! Remember to adjust the measurements and stitch counts for different sizes and lengths. Enjoy knitting this adorable garment for a special little one.