Description

Rabbits Sweater & Hat – 1980s Knitting Pattern: Instant PDF Download

Size: 1, 2, 3 Years (20″, 22″, 24″ Chest)

Few vintage knitting patterns capture the playful charm of an era quite like this bunny-motif sweater and hat set. Worked in cheerful stranded colorwork across a blue background, rows of hopping rabbits march around the body in a classic Fair Isle style, finished with a trio of buttons at the shoulder and a coordinating ribbed hat. This retro baby knitting pattern is an ideal animal-motif project for dressing up a toddler in something truly one-of-a-kind, whether for a special occasion or an everyday favorite.

Design & Construction Details

Skill Level: Intermediate.
Construction: Worked flat in pieces — back, front, and sleeves worked separately in stockinette stitch with twisted stranded colorwork, then seamed; neckband and buttonhole/button bands picked up and worked in single rib; hat worked flat and seamed at the back, with the crown shaped by paired decreases.
Finished Measurements: To fit chest 20″ (51 cm), 22″ (56 cm), 24″ (61 cm); all-round underarm 20¾″, 23¾″, 27″.
Pattern Style: Written in standard UK knitting terms, with row-by-row color instructions (no charted colorwork).
Stitches: Knit, purl, single rib, stockinette stitch worked with twisted stranded colorwork.

Recommended Materials & Tools

Yarn: Sirdar Country Style Double Knitting — 3 (3, 4) balls blue (saxe), 1 ball white, 1 ball green (pastel jade), 1 ball yellow (corona yellow); 50 g balls.
Substitute Yarn: Modern Sport/Baby weight yarn such as Debbie Bliss Eco Baby or Cascade Yarns Botanika.
Knitting Needles Size: US 6 / 4 mm and US 3 / 3.25 mm (or size needed to obtain gauge).
Notions: 3 buttons; tapestry needle for weaving in ends.
Gauge: 26 sts and 28 rows = 4″ (10 cm) in stockinette stitch on larger needles.

This is a digitally restored PDF knitting pattern
Upon purchase, you will receive an instant digital download — a clean, easily readable PDF. The original vintage instructions have been digitally enhanced, reformatted, and checked for clarity, ensuring a smooth crafting experience from start to finish.