Clover - Free Pattern

Photo above © DROPS Design

Clover / DROPS Children 34-4 is a free children's sweater knitting pattern from DROPS Design, featuring a decorative lace pattern, raglan shaping and comfortable top-down construction.

Designed for children approximately 2 to 12 years old, the sweater can be knitted in DROPS Air or DROPS Paris and is available in six sizes.

The complete pattern remains free on the official DROPS Design website.

✓ Free Pattern Availability

Clover / DROPS Children 34-4 is currently available as a free official knitting pattern from DROPS Design. Use the official link below for the complete current instructions, diagrams and measurements.

Clover Sweater at a Glance

Pattern: Clover / DROPS Children 34-4

Designer: DROPS Design

Pattern Number: ai-014-bn

Craft: Knitting

Category: Children's Sweater / Jumper

Sizes: 2 to 11/12 years

Suggested Yarn: DROPS Air or DROPS Paris

Gauge: 16 stitches × 20 rows = 4 in / 10 cm

Main Needles: US 9 / 5.5 mm

Rib Needles: US 7 / 4.5 mm

Construction: Top down

Features: Lace pattern, raglan shaping, long sleeves

Availability: Free official DROPS pattern

About the Clover Children's Sweater

Clover is a children's pullover designed by DROPS Design.

The sweater combines a relatively simple silhouette with decorative lace across the upper portion of the garment.

It is knitted from the top down with raglan shaping, giving knitters a practical construction method while allowing the lace to become the main decorative feature.

Six Children's Sizes

The official DROPS pattern includes six sizes:

• 2 years
• 3/4 years
• 5/6 years
• 7/8 years
• 9/10 years
• 11/12 years

DROPS associates these sizes with approximate child heights of:

92 – 98/104 – 110/116 – 122/128 – 134/140 – 146/152 cm

Age is only a guide. When possible, compare the child's measurements with the finished measurements in the official DROPS schematic before choosing a size.

Finished Chest Measurements

The published finished chest measurements are approximately:

68 – 72 – 76 – 84 – 86 – 94 cm

That's approximately:

26¾ – 28⅜ – 30 – 33 – 33⅞ – 37 inches

Finished length ranges from approximately 36 cm for the smallest size to 56 cm for the largest.

Two Suggested Yarn Options

One useful feature of the official Clover pattern is that DROPS provides two yarn options.

You can knit the sweater in:

• DROPS Air
• DROPS Paris

These yarns have very different fiber compositions and characteristics, so the finished sweater can have a different feel depending on which option you choose.

The important requirement is obtaining the pattern gauge and a fabric suitable for the garment.

DROPS Air Requirements

When using DROPS Air, the official pattern calls for approximately:

150 – 150 – 200 – 200 – 200 – 250 grams

The original DROPS sample lists color 20, Rose.

DROPS Paris Requirements

The alternative DROPS Paris version requires approximately:

300 – 300 – 400 – 400 – 400 – 500 grams

The official pattern lists color 01, Apricot, for this option.

Gauge

The required knitting gauge is:

16 stitches × 20 rows = 4 × 4 inches / 10 × 10 cm

This is measured in stockinette stitch.

Gauge is important for children's garments because it directly affects the finished chest circumference, length and yarn consumption.

Make a gauge swatch before beginning, particularly when substituting another yarn.

Needles

DROPS recommends:

• 5.5 mm / US 9 circular and double-pointed needles for the main fabric
• 4.5 mm / US 7 circular and double-pointed needles for the ribbing

The published needle sizes are guides. Use the needle size that allows you to obtain the required gauge.

Top-Down Construction

Clover is knitted from the top down.

This construction begins at the neckline and develops the upper body before moving down toward the hem.

Top-down sweaters can be particularly convenient for children's garments because the overall proportions become easier to visualize as the project grows.

Raglan Shaping

The sweater uses raglan shaping to form the upper body and sleeves.

Raglan construction distributes shaping around the upper garment rather than requiring separately shaped traditional armholes.

Combined with the top-down method, it creates a clean construction that works well with the decorative lace section.

The Lace Pattern

The decorative lace is one of Clover's defining features.

The motif is worked according to the diagrams supplied with the official DROPS pattern.

Amazing Knitting does not reproduce those copyrighted charts here. Follow the current official pattern for the complete stitch sequence and diagrams.

Working from a Knitting Chart

If you are relatively new to charted lace, take a little time to study the symbols before beginning the decorative section.

Keep track of both your current chart row and your position within each repeat.

Stitch markers can be useful for separating repeats where appropriate, making it easier to identify a missing yarn over or decrease before the error travels into later rows.

Count Your Stitches Regularly

Lace depends on increases and decreases remaining correctly balanced.

A forgotten yarn over or an accidental extra stitch can change the alignment of the following rows.

Checking your stitch count at logical points throughout the lace section can save considerable time later.

Consider Using a Lifeline

If lace knitting is still new to you, a lifeline can provide useful insurance.

Pass a smooth contrasting thread through a correctly completed row without interfering with the working stitches.

If you later discover an error, you have a known safe row to return to instead of unraveling blindly through the lace.

Working the Sleeves

After the body has been established, the sleeves are worked using the stitches set aside during the upper-body construction.

Smaller circumferences can be handled with double-pointed needles, magic loop or another method you are comfortable using, while still following the stitch counts and shaping in the official instructions.

Choosing the Right Size

Children's ages do not always correspond perfectly to standardized clothing sizes.

For a better result, measure a sweater that currently fits the child well and compare it with the finished measurements supplied by DROPS.

Pay particular attention to chest circumference, body length and sleeve length.

Substituting Yarn

You can use another suitable yarn instead of the two DROPS options, but do not select a substitute by yarn label alone.

Look for a yarn capable of producing the required 16 stitches × 20 rows per 10 cm while creating a fabric you like.

Fiber content also matters. A cotton yarn such as DROPS Paris behaves differently from a light blown yarn such as DROPS Air.

Always swatch when making a significant substitution.

Skills Used in Clover

This project is useful for practicing several knitting skills:

• Top-down sweater construction
• Raglan shaping
• Knitting in the round
• Knit and purl stitches
• Ribbing
• Increasing and decreasing
• Yarn overs
• Following lace diagrams
• Working sleeves in a small circumference
• Finishing and weaving in ends

Is Clover Suitable for Beginners?

Clover is more involved than a completely basic stockinette children's sweater because of the lace pattern and shaping.

However, a knitter who is already comfortable with knit and purl stitches, working in the round and basic increases and decreases can use it as a good opportunity to gain experience with charted lace and top-down garment construction.

Important: Use the Current Pattern

DROPS notes that the Clover pattern has received a correction.

The official page currently shows an update dated October 23, 2020 concerning the sleeve instructions.

For this reason, avoid relying on an old saved or copied version of the instructions. Work from the current official DROPS page so you have the corrected pattern.

Is the Clover Sweater Still Free?

Yes.

Clover / DROPS Children 34-4 remains available as a complete free knitting pattern directly from DROPS Design.

The official page includes the instructions, diagrams, measurements and supporting technique information.

Get the Free Clover Knitting Pattern

Visit DROPS Design for the complete current pattern:

Get the Free Clover Pattern →

More Free Children's Sweater Patterns

Looking for another children's project? The recently reviewed Lamb Dance cardigan from DROPS Design is another free pattern, featuring a playful stranded-colorwork sheep yoke.

See the Free Lamb Dance Pattern →

You can also browse more projects in the Amazing Knitting archive:

• Free Children's Sweater Patterns
• Free Children's Knitting Patterns
• Free Lace Sweater Patterns

Before You Start

Choose the size using the child's measurements rather than age alone, then make a gauge swatch with your chosen yarn.

Read through the lace diagrams before reaching the patterned section and consider using stitch markers or a lifeline if charted lace is new to you.

Most importantly, work from the current DROPS page because the pattern has received a published correction since its original release.

Pattern credit: Clover / DROPS Children 34-4 was designed and published by DROPS Design. The existing photograph on this Amazing Knitting page is credited to DROPS Design. Amazing Knitting does not reproduce the designer's complete copyrighted instructions or charts.

Lamb Dance Kids Jacket - Free Knitting Pattern

Photo above © DROPS Design

Lamb Dance by DROPS Design is a cheerful free children's cardigan knitting pattern featuring a flock of little sheep around the circular yoke.

The jacket is worked from the top down in DK-weight yarn, combining stockinette stitch, ribbing and stranded colorwork. With five sizes covering approximately 3 to 12 years, it is a playful project for knitters ready to combine garment construction with colorwork.

Best of all, the complete pattern remains free from DROPS Design.

✓ Free Pattern Availability

Lamb Dance / DROPS Children 34-1 is currently available as a free knitting pattern from DROPS Design. Use the official DROPS link below for the complete current instructions, charts and pattern information.

Lamb Dance Jacket at a Glance

Pattern: Lamb Dance / DROPS Children 34-1

Designer: DROPS Design

Pattern Number: me-054-bn

First Published: March 2019

Craft: Knitting

Category: Children's Cardigan / Jacket

Sizes: 3/4, 5/6, 7/8, 9/10 and 11/12 years

Yarn Weight: DK / 8 ply

Suggested Yarn: DROPS Merino Extra Fine or DROPS Lima

Main Needles: US 6 / 4 mm

Rib Needles: US 2½ / 3 mm

Gauge: 21 stitches × 28 rows = 4 in / 10 cm

Construction: Top down

Features: Circular yoke, stranded colorwork, sheep motif, button front

Availability: Free official pattern

About the Lamb Dance Jacket

Lamb Dance is a children's knitted cardigan from DROPS Design.

Its defining feature is the whimsical band of sheep worked around the circular yoke. Contrasting colors create the sheep and surrounding decorative pattern against the main background color.

Below the patterned yoke, the cardigan becomes much simpler, allowing the colorwork to remain the visual focus of the finished garment.

Five Children's Sizes

The official pattern includes five sizes:

• 3/4 years — approximately 98/104 cm height
• 5/6 years — approximately 110/116 cm
• 7/8 years — approximately 122/128 cm
• 9/10 years — approximately 134/140 cm
• 11/12 years — approximately 146/152 cm

When choosing a size, compare the child's measurements with the finished measurements in the official DROPS pattern rather than relying only on age.

Finished Measurements

The published finished chest measurements are approximately:

64 – 68 – 74 – 78 – 80 cm

The corresponding finished body lengths are approximately:

35 – 39 – 43 – 47 – 51 cm

Consult the official schematic before choosing your size, especially when knitting the cardigan as a gift.

Yarn Choices

DROPS provides two suggested yarn options for Lamb Dance:

• DROPS Merino Extra Fine
• DROPS Lima

Both belong to DROPS Yarn Group B and fall within the DK-weight range, but their fiber compositions produce somewhat different fabrics.

DROPS Merino Extra Fine is a merino yarn, while DROPS Lima combines wool and alpaca.

If substituting another yarn, matching the required gauge is more important than simply selecting a yarn carrying the same weight label.

How Much Yarn Do You Need?

The main background color requires approximately 150 to 250 grams, depending on size.

Several contrasting colors are then used for the sheep and other elements of the colorwork.

Because the exact amounts vary by size and yarn choice, check the official DROPS materials table before purchasing your yarn.

Knitting Gauge

The official gauge is:

21 stitches × 28 rows = 4 × 4 inches / 10 × 10 cm

This gauge is measured in stockinette stitch using the larger needles.

Gauge is particularly important for children's garments because even a relatively small difference can noticeably change the finished chest circumference and length.

Needles

The pattern uses approximately:

• 4 mm / US 6 circular needles for the main fabric
• 4 mm / US 6 double-pointed needles or another suitable small-circumference method
• 3 mm / US 2½ needles for the ribbing

The official pattern lists circular needle lengths appropriate for the different stages of the garment.

Needle sizes are recommendations. Adjust them if necessary to obtain the required gauge.

Top-Down Construction

Lamb Dance is knitted from the top down.

Top-down construction has several practical advantages. The yoke and upper body develop first, followed by the body and sleeves, reducing the amount of traditional garment seaming.

It can also make the overall construction easier to visualize because the cardigan grows from the neckline toward the hem.

The Circular Yoke

The sheep motif sits within a circular yoke.

Instead of using conventional armhole shaping with separately knitted front and back pieces, shaping is distributed around the upper body.

This creates the smooth rounded line that makes Nordic-style colorwork yokes so recognizable.

The Sheep Colorwork

The playful sheep are the signature feature of Lamb Dance.

The motif is created using stranded colorwork, following the chart supplied by DROPS Design.

Amazing Knitting does not reproduce that copyrighted chart here. Use the current official pattern while working the yoke.

Tips for Stranded Colorwork

If stranded knitting is relatively new to you, pay particular attention to your tension.

The unused yarn carried behind the work should have enough room to span the stitches without pulling the knitted fabric together.

Stretching the stitches gently along the right needle while changing colors can help keep the floats from becoming too tight.

Check the fabric frequently rather than waiting until the entire yoke is complete.

Swatch the Colorwork Too

Your tension when knitting stranded colorwork may differ from your ordinary stockinette tension.

If this happens, the yoke can become tighter than the body even when the stockinette portion matches the published gauge.

A small colorwork swatch can therefore be useful before beginning the main sheep section.

Button Front

Unlike the related Lamb Dance pullover, this version is a front-opening cardigan.

The official pattern calls for:

6 – 6 – 7 – 7 – 7 buttons

The exact number depends on the size being knitted.

Attach buttons securely, particularly when the garment is intended for a younger child.

Skills Used in Lamb Dance

Useful skills for this project include:

• Casting on and binding off
• Knit and purl stitches
• Working ribbing
• Knitting stockinette stitch
• Working in the round
• Working flat where required
• Increasing and decreasing
• Reading a colorwork chart
• Stranded knitting
• Managing yarn floats
• Working a circular yoke
• Making buttonholes
• Picking up stitches where instructed
• Weaving in multiple color ends neatly

Is Lamb Dance Suitable for Beginners?

A knitter who has already completed simple garments and is comfortable working in the round should find Lamb Dance an interesting introduction to a more decorative children's cardigan.

The colorwork yoke adds another skill layer, so a complete first-time knitter may prefer to practice stranded knitting on a small swatch before beginning.

DROPS also provides supporting technique information and video tutorials alongside many of its patterns.

A Matching Lamb Dance Collection

The cardigan is part of a small coordinated DROPS collection.

DROPS also published a Lamb Dance Sweater using the same playful sheep theme, as well as a matching Lamb Dance Hat.

This makes the design especially useful if you enjoy the motif and want to create coordinated children's knitwear.

Is Lamb Dance Still Free?

Yes.

Lamb Dance / DROPS Children 34-1 is currently available directly from DROPS Design as a complete free knitting pattern.

The official page contains the current instructions, diagrams, charts, measurements and supporting information.

Amazing Knitting provides this independent project guide rather than reproducing the complete DROPS instructions or charts.

Get the Free Lamb Dance Pattern

Use the official DROPS Design page for the complete free pattern:

Get the Free Lamb Dance Pattern →

More Free Children's Knitting Patterns

You can continue exploring Amazing Knitting for free children's cardigans, sweaters and colorwork projects.

Explore Free Children's Cardigans →

You can also browse:

• Free Children's Sweater Patterns
• Free Colorwork Knitting Patterns
• DROPS Knitting Patterns

Before You Start

Choose the size by comparing the child's measurements with the official DROPS schematic, then make a gauge swatch with your chosen Yarn Group B yarn.

If stranded knitting is new to you, practice carrying two colors before reaching the sheep yoke. Keeping the floats relaxed is important for maintaining a comfortable fit across the upper body.

Finally, always work from the current DROPS page so you have access to the latest version of the pattern and its supporting information.

Pattern credit: Lamb Dance / DROPS Children 34-1 was designed and published by DROPS Design. Amazing Knitting does not reproduce the designer's copyrighted charts or complete knitting instructions. Please use the official DROPS page for the free pattern.

Teint de Neige Baby Blanket - Free Knitting Pattern

Photos above © supergra 

Teint de Neige / DROPS Baby 14-22 is an elegant knitted baby blanket that combines several lace textures in a soft, traditional design.

Designed by DROPS Design and originally published in the DROPS Baby collections, the blanket measures approximately 23½ × 33½ inches (60 × 85 cm). Best of all, the complete original pattern is still available free directly from DROPS Design.

✓ Free Pattern Availability

Teint de Neige / DROPS Baby 14-22 remains available as a free official DROPS knitting pattern. The current DROPS page includes the complete instructions, lace diagrams and an official pattern correction.

Teint de Neige Blanket at a Glance

Pattern: Teint de Neige / DROPS Baby 14-22

Designer: DROPS Design

First Published: January 2006

Craft: Knitting

Category: Baby Blanket

Finished Size: Approx. 23½ × 33½ in / 60 × 85 cm

Suggested Yarn: DROPS Alpaca

Yarn Weight: Sport / 5 ply

Yarn Required: 250 g / 5 skeins

Needle: 3 mm circular needle, approx. 80 cm / 32 in

Gauge: 24 stitches × 32 rows = 4 in / 10 cm in the specified lace sections

Construction: Worked flat on a circular needle

Features: Multiple lace patterns and garter-stitch side borders

Availability: Free official pattern

About the Teint de Neige Baby Blanket

Teint de Neige is a classic lace baby blanket from DROPS Design. Rather than using one stitch repeat from beginning to end, the design combines different lace sections to create changing texture across the length of the blanket.

The off-white color used for the original version gives the project a traditional heirloom appearance and allows the lace structure to remain the main visual feature.

The finished dimensions also make it a practical baby-sized blanket rather than a full-size throw.

Finished Blanket Size

The official finished measurement is approximately:

23½ × 33½ inches / 60 × 85 cm

Remember that lace can change noticeably after washing and blocking. Matching the pattern gauge and treating your swatch in the same way as the finished blanket will give you a better idea of the final fabric.

DROPS Alpaca

The original blanket was designed using DROPS Alpaca.

The official pattern calls for:

250 g / 5 skeins in off-white

DROPS Alpaca is a Sport / 5-ply weight yarn. The relatively fine yarn helps create the delicate appearance of the lace without making the finished baby blanket excessively heavy.

Needles and Gauge

DROPS specifies an approximately 80 cm / 32-inch circular needle in 3 mm.

Although a circular needle is used, the blanket itself is worked back and forth. The circular needle simply provides enough room to comfortably hold the large number of stitches.

For the specified lace sections, the published gauge is:

24 stitches × 32 rows = 4 inches / 10 cm

DROPS also provides a separate width gauge for one of the charted sections, so consult the current official pattern before beginning.

A Blanket Made from Several Lace Sections

One reason Teint de Neige looks more elaborate than many beginner blankets is that the texture changes as the knitting progresses.

DROPS uses several charted stitch patterns rather than simply repeating one motif across the entire blanket.

This creates distinct decorative areas while maintaining a unified monochrome appearance.

Garter-Stitch Side Borders

The decorative lace is framed by simple garter-stitch edges.

These borders provide visual contrast and give the sides of the blanket a cleaner finish.

When working the lace sections, take care to keep the border stitches separate from any increases or decreases that belong only to the main pattern area.

Reading the DROPS Charts

The original pattern uses several DROPS diagrams for the lace sections. The diagrams show the pattern rows as viewed from the right side.

Before beginning a new section, identify the correct diagram and check where its repeat begins and ends.

Amazing Knitting does not reproduce these copyrighted charts. The complete current diagrams are available free on the official DROPS pattern page.

The Two Ends Are Not Identical

There is an interesting detail worth knowing before you begin: DROPS specifically notes that the pattern is not the same at both ends of the blanket.

In other words, do not assume that the second half simply mirrors the first.

Following the sequence of charts in the original instructions is important for reproducing the intended design.

Why a Circular Needle Is Useful

Newer knitters sometimes assume that using a circular needle means the project must be knitted in the round.

That is not the case here.

A circular needle is simply an efficient way to hold the width of a blanket. At the end of each row, the work is turned just as it would be when using straight needles.

Skills That Help

Helpful skills for Teint de Neige include:

• Casting on and binding off
• Knitting and purling
• Working garter stitch
• Yarn overs
• Working increases and decreases
• Reading lace charts
• Following repeating stitch patterns
• Keeping accurate stitch counts
• Working flat on circular needles
• Blocking knitted lace

Keep Track of Your Stitch Count

Lace knitting depends on increases and decreases balancing correctly. A missed yarn over or an extra decrease can shift the following pattern repeats.

Check your stitch count after important transition rows rather than waiting until the end of a large section.

Stitch markers may also help separate repeats where appropriate.

Consider Adding a Lifeline

If you are less confident with lace, a lifeline can make a large blanket considerably less stressful.

After completing a section correctly, thread a smooth contrasting strand through the live stitches without removing them from the needle.

If you later need to unravel several rows, the lifeline provides a safe point at which to stop.

Choosing a Substitute Yarn

You are not limited to the original off-white DROPS Alpaca, but yarn substitution should be based on more than color.

Look for a yarn that can achieve the required gauge and allows the lace motifs to remain clearly visible.

For a baby blanket, also consider softness, washing requirements, durability and how the chosen fiber behaves after blocking.

Make a Lace Swatch

For this project, a swatch worked only in stockinette will not tell you everything you need to know.

Testing one of the lace sections allows you to check gauge while also seeing whether your yarn provides enough stitch definition for the decorative pattern.

Wash and dry the swatch according to the yarn's care instructions before making your final decision.

Blocking the Finished Blanket

Lace often looks compressed immediately after it comes off the needles. Appropriate blocking allows the decorative openings and lines to settle into their intended shape.

Use a method suitable for your chosen fiber and avoid stretching the blanket far beyond its intended dimensions.

Important Pattern Correction

The official DROPS page states that Teint de Neige has received a pattern correction.

For this reason, knitters should use the current online DROPS version rather than relying solely on an old printed copy, saved transcription or instructions copied to another website many years ago.

This is another reason Amazing Knitting links directly to the current designer/publisher source instead of reproducing the knitting instructions here.

Is Teint de Neige Still Free?

Yes. Teint de Neige / DROPS Baby 14-22 remains available as a completely free knitting pattern directly from DROPS Design.

The official page contains the current instructions, diagrams, measurements and pattern correction.

Amazing Knitting does not reproduce DROPS Design's copyrighted charts or complete row-by-row instructions. This page provides an independent project guide and directs knitters to the legitimate original source.

Get the Free Teint de Neige Pattern

Use the official DROPS Design page for the complete current knitting pattern and diagrams.

Get the Free Teint de Neige Pattern →

More Free Baby Blanket Patterns

If you enjoy Teint de Neige, explore more free lace and baby blanket projects from the Amazing Knitting archive.

Explore Free Baby Blanket Patterns →

You can also browse lace baby blankets, free lace blankets, and DROPS baby blankets.

Before You Start

Open the current DROPS pattern before casting on and review the sequence of lace diagrams. Because the blanket uses several pattern sections, understanding the transitions in advance will make the project easier to follow.

Make a lace swatch, check your gauge and use the current corrected online version of the pattern rather than an old copied set of instructions.

Pattern credit: Teint de Neige / DROPS Baby 14-22 was designed and published by DROPS Design. The existing project photographs on this Amazing Knitting page are credited to supergra. Amazing Knitting does not reproduce DROPS Design's copyrighted charts or complete row-by-row knitting instructions.

Cable Snooze - Free Pattern

Photo above © DROPS design

Cable Snooze / DROPS Baby 33-7 is a cozy knitted baby sleeping bag by DROPS Design, combining delicate lace, double moss stitch and a practical hood.

Designed in soft merino yarn, the pattern includes sizes from premature babies through 2 years. Best of all, the complete Cable Snooze knitting pattern is still available free directly from DROPS Design.

✓ Free Pattern Availability

Cable Snooze remains available as a free official DROPS knitting pattern. This page has also been updated to correct an older size reference: the official pattern currently includes sizes from premature through 2 years.

Cable Snooze at a Glance

Pattern: Cable Snooze / DROPS Baby 33-7

Designer: DROPS Design

First Published: November 2018

Craft: Knitting

Category: Baby Sleeping / Bunting Bag

Sizes: Premature to 2 years

Suggested Yarn: DROPS Merino Extra Fine

Yarn Weight: DK / Yarn Group B

Needle: US 6 / 4 mm circular needle

Gauge: 21 stitches × 28 rows = 4 inches / 10 cm in stockinette

Main Features: Lace, double moss stitch, hood and button fastening

Current Availability: Free official pattern

About the Cable Snooze Baby Bag

Cable Snooze is more than a simple knitted blanket. DROPS designed it as a shaped baby sleeping or bunting bag with a hood and button fastening.

The combination of lace and textured double moss stitch gives the piece considerably more visual interest than a plain stockinette baby cocoon, while the hood completes the cozy wrapped appearance.

The design is unisex, so changing the yarn colour can easily give the finished project a completely different look.

Sizes from Premature to 2 Years

The current official DROPS pattern includes six sizes:

• Premature — approximate height 40/44 cm
• 0–1 month — approximate height 48/52 cm
• 1–3 months — approximate height 56/62 cm
• 6–9 months — approximate height 68/74 cm
• 12–18 months — approximate height 80/86 cm
• 2 years — approximate height 92 cm

Older references to this pattern sometimes describe the size range differently. For your project, always use the measurements and sizing information in the current DROPS pattern.

DROPS Merino Extra Fine

Cable Snooze was designed using DROPS Merino Extra Fine, a DK-weight merino yarn in DROPS Yarn Group B.

The official yarn quantities are:

• Premature: 350 g
• 0–1 month: 400 g
• 1–3 months: 450 g
• 6–9 months: 500 g
• 12–18 months: 600 g
• 2 years: 650 g

The original sample is shown in a soft light grey-green shade.

If substituting another yarn, choose one capable of producing the required gauge and a comfortable fabric suitable for a baby garment.

Needles and Gauge

DROPS specifies an:

US 6 / 4 mm circular needle, approximately 80 cm long

The published stockinette gauge is:

21 stitches × 28 rows = 4 inches / 10 cm

The recommended needle size is only a starting point. Use the needle size necessary for you to obtain the designer's gauge.

Lace and Double Moss Stitch

One of the most attractive features of Cable Snooze is the combination of two different surface textures.

The lace sections create decorative openwork, while double moss stitch provides a denser textured contrast.

Together they prevent the large knitted surface from appearing flat while still allowing the design to remain soft and suitable for a baby project.

The Hood

Cable Snooze includes an integrated knitted hood that gives the project its distinctive cozy appearance.

This also makes the construction more interesting than knitting a simple rectangular blanket or sleep sack.

Follow the current DROPS instructions and diagrams for the exact hood shaping and assembly.

Button Fastening

Buttons are another important design feature.

The number required varies with size:

• Premature: 8 buttons
• 0–1 month: 9 buttons
• 1–3 months: 10 buttons
• 6–9 months: 11 buttons
• 12–18 months: 12 buttons
• 2 years: 12 buttons

DROPS used its Oak No. 503 wooden buttons for the original project. If substituting buttons, check the current pattern for the appropriate size and placement.

How Cable Snooze Is Constructed

The pattern is worked primarily back and forth rather than in the round.

It combines several pattern sections, button bands and shaping before the finished pieces are assembled into the sleeping-bag form.

Ravelry classifies the pattern as worked flat and seamed, with features including lace, eyelets, a hood, buttonholes and textured stitches.

Use the original DROPS instructions for the exact stitch counts, diagrams, shaping and assembly sequence.

Charts and Written Instructions

DROPS provides diagrams for the decorative stitch patterns together with written explanations for the construction.

Before beginning, familiarize yourself with the relevant chart for your chosen size because different sizes use different diagram combinations.

Amazing Knitting does not reproduce the DROPS charts or row-by-row instructions. The complete current pattern is available free from the official source.

Skills That Help

Useful skills for Cable Snooze include:

• Casting on and binding off
• Knit and purl stitches
• Working double moss stitch
• Working yarn overs and lace decreases
• Reading knitting charts
• Making buttonholes
• Working garment shaping
• Picking up stitches
• Basic seaming
• Attaching buttons securely

Choosing Yarn for a Baby Project

When substituting yarn for a baby item, consider more than colour.

The yarn should produce the correct gauge and a fabric that feels soft and comfortable. Washing requirements are also important for an item likely to need frequent cleaning.

A smooth solid or gently heathered yarn can be especially effective here because it allows both the lace and moss-stitch textures to remain clearly visible.

Important Baby Safety Note

This is a wearable baby bunting or sleeping-bag style knitting project, not a substitute for current safe-sleep guidance or approved infant sleep products.

Always supervise appropriately, make sure buttons and other fastenings are attached securely, and follow current child-safety recommendations for the age and situation in which the finished item will be used.

Is Cable Snooze Still Free?

Yes. Cable Snooze / DROPS Baby 33-7 remains available as a completely free knitting pattern directly from DROPS Design.

The official DROPS page includes the current instructions, diagrams, measurements and pattern tools.

Amazing Knitting does not reproduce the copyrighted charts or complete row-by-row instructions. Instead, this guide provides project information and directs knitters to the legitimate original pattern.

Get the Free Cable Snooze Pattern

The complete current pattern is available directly from DROPS Design.

Get the Free Cable Snooze Pattern →

More Free Baby Knitting Patterns

If you enjoy Cable Snooze, explore more free baby projects from the Amazing Knitting archive.

Explore Free Baby Knitting Patterns →

You can also browse free baby blankets, free baby cardigans, and DROPS baby patterns.

Before You Start

Open the current DROPS pattern first and select the correct size before buying yarn. Check the yarn quantity, number of buttons and diagrams required for that particular size.

Make a gauge swatch in your chosen yarn before beginning. Since this is a shaped baby project rather than a simple blanket, correct gauge is important for achieving the intended finished measurements.

Pattern credit: Cable Snooze / DROPS Baby 33-7 was designed and published by DROPS Design. The existing photograph on this Amazing Knitting page is credited to DROPS Design. Amazing Knitting does not reproduce DROPS Design's charts or complete row-by-row knitting instructions.

Butterfly Heart Top - Free Pattern

Photo above © piaherno

Butterfly Heart Top / DROPS 170-4 is a beautiful sleeveless women's top featuring an eye-catching lace design around the V-neckline.

Designed by DROPS Design and worked from the top down, this summer knitting project is available in six sizes from S through XXXL. Best of all, the complete original pattern is still available free directly from DROPS Design.

✓ Free Pattern Availability

Butterfly Heart Top / DROPS 170-4 remains available as a free official DROPS knitting pattern. The complete current instructions, diagrams and measurements are available directly from DROPS Design.

Butterfly Heart Top at a Glance

Pattern: Butterfly Heart Top / DROPS 170-4

DROPS Pattern No.: vs-011

Designer: DROPS Design

Collection: DROPS 170

First Published: February 2016

Craft: Knitting

Category: Women's Sleeveless Top

Sizes: S, M, L, XL, XXL, XXXL

Suggested Yarn: DROPS Belle

Yarn Weight: DK / Yarn Group B

Main Needles: US 6 / 4 mm

Edge Needle: US 4 / 3.5 mm

Gauge: 21 stitches × 28 rows = 4 inches / 10 cm in stockinette

Construction: Top-down

Features: Lace, V-neck, sleeveless construction

Current Availability: Free official pattern

About the Butterfly Heart Top

Butterfly Heart Top is a feminine summer knitting design from DROPS Design.

Its most distinctive feature is the decorative lace around the deep V-neckline. The lace creates the visual focus of the garment while the sleeveless shape keeps the overall silhouette light and suitable for warmer weather.

The design can be worn as a summer top on its own or layered over another garment when the weather is cooler.

Sizes S to XXXL

DROPS provides the pattern in six sizes:

• S
• M
• L
• XL
• XXL
• XXXL

Because the pattern includes a schematic with finished measurements, compare those measurements with a garment that fits you comfortably before deciding which size to knit.

DROPS Belle Yarn

The original Butterfly Heart Top was designed in DROPS Belle.

DROPS Belle is a DK-weight summer yarn made from a blend of cotton, viscose and linen. This combination gives the finished fabric a lightweight character that suits a sleeveless lace top particularly well.

The official yarn requirements are:

• S: 250 g
• M: 300 g
• L: 300 g
• XL: 350 g
• XXL: 400 g
• XXXL: 400 g

The original sample is shown in DROPS Belle color Old Pink No. 11.

Needles and Gauge

For the main fabric, DROPS specifies:

US 6 / 4 mm double-pointed and circular needles

The pattern uses 40 cm / 16-inch and 80 cm / 32-inch circular needles as required during construction.

A smaller:

US 4 / 3.5 mm circular needle

is specified for the garter-stitch edges.

The published gauge is:

21 stitches × 28 rows = 4 inches / 10 cm in stockinette stitch

Use whichever needle size allows you to obtain the designer's gauge.

Worked from the Top Down

Butterfly Heart Top is a top-down knitting project.

This means construction begins around the upper part of the garment rather than at the lower hem.

The neckline and lace structure are established early in the project, with the garment developing downward from there.

Follow the official DROPS instructions carefully because different stages of the project are worked both back and forth and in the round.

The Butterfly Heart Lace

The lace pattern is what gives this top its distinctive identity.

Decorative openings radiate around the V-neck and create a strong geometric motif that can resemble a combination of butterfly wings and a heart shape.

Because the lace is positioned so prominently, accurate stitch counts are especially important.

Charts A.1 to A.13

DROPS provides a series of diagrams for the patterned sections, identified as A.1 through A.13.

Different sizes may use different diagram combinations, so identify the instructions for your selected size before beginning each patterned section.

Amazing Knitting does not reproduce these copyrighted diagrams. They are available directly on the official DROPS pattern page.

Short Rows

The pattern also uses short rows during construction.

Short-row knitting allows selected sections to gain additional rows without working all the way across the complete piece.

If you are unfamiliar with this technique, review how the pattern asks you to turn the work before beginning that section.

Garter-Stitch Edges

Garter stitch provides a simple textural contrast to the decorative lace.

The smaller US 4 / 3.5 mm needle is used for these edge sections, helping them maintain a neat appearance around the garment.

Skills That Help

Butterfly Heart Top is most comfortable for knitters who already have some experience beyond basic knit and purl stitches.

Helpful skills include:

• Casting on and binding off
• Knitting and purling
• Working stockinette stitch
• Working garter stitch
• Yarn overs
• Increasing and decreasing
• Reading lace charts
• Working short rows
• Working back and forth
• Knitting in the round
• Keeping accurate stitch counts
• Blocking lace

Reading the Lace Charts

Before starting the lace section, spend a few minutes studying the symbols and identifying the correct diagram for your size.

Lace mistakes are often easier to prevent than to repair several rows later.

Stitch markers can be helpful where appropriate, and checking your stitch count after important increase or decrease rows can prevent a small mistake from spreading through the motif.

Consider Using a Lifeline

If you are less experienced with lace knitting, a lifeline can provide useful insurance.

Thread a smooth contrasting strand through the live stitches after a correctly completed section. If a later mistake requires unraveling, the lifeline gives you a safe row to return to.

Choosing a Substitute Yarn

If DROPS Belle is not available, choose a substitute based on gauge, fiber behavior and the type of fabric you want to create.

A summer top benefits from a yarn that produces comfortable drape without hiding the lace definition.

Cotton, linen and viscose blends can behave differently from wool, particularly in elasticity and how they change after washing, so a generous gauge swatch is worthwhile.

Make and Wash Your Gauge Swatch

Gauge matters in any fitted garment, but it is particularly important when working with plant-fiber blends.

Make a swatch large enough to measure accurately and treat it the way you intend to wash the finished top.

Measure again after the swatch has dried. This can reveal whether your chosen yarn grows or changes significantly after washing.

Blocking the Lace

Lace often appears more compressed while it is still on the needles. Appropriate blocking can help the openings and decorative lines settle into their intended shape.

Follow the care instructions for your yarn and avoid overstretching the garment beyond its intended measurements.

Is Butterfly Heart Top Still Free?

Yes. Butterfly Heart Top / DROPS 170-4 remains available as a completely free knitting pattern from DROPS Design.

The official page provides the complete instructions, size-specific information, diagrams, schematic and current pattern tools.

Amazing Knitting does not reproduce DROPS Design's complete row-by-row instructions or charts. This page provides an independent project guide and directs knitters to the legitimate original source.

Get the Free Butterfly Heart Top Pattern

Use the official DROPS Design page for the complete current pattern.

Get the Free Butterfly Heart Top Pattern →

More Free Women's Knitting Patterns

If you enjoy Butterfly Heart Top, explore more free summer tops and lace knitting projects from the Amazing Knitting archive.

Explore Free Knitted Top Patterns →

You can also browse free lace tops, sleeveless tops, and DROPS knitting patterns.

Before You Start

Open the current DROPS pattern and select your size before purchasing yarn. Check the schematic and finished measurements rather than choosing solely by the S–XXXL labels.

Make and wash a gauge swatch, then familiarize yourself with the size-specific lace diagrams and short-row instructions before casting on the full garment.

Pattern credit: Butterfly Heart Top / DROPS 170-4 was designed and published by DROPS Design. The existing photograph on this Amazing Knitting page is credited to piaherno. Amazing Knitting does not reproduce DROPS Design's copyrighted charts or complete row-by-row knitting instructions.

Lamb Dance Hat - Free Pattern

Photo above © DROPS Design

Lamb Dance Hat / DROPS Children 34-2 is a playful free children's hat knitting pattern featuring a flock of little sheep worked in stranded colorwork.

Designed for children approximately 3 to 12 years old, the hat is worked from the bottom up in the round and finished with a pompom. It coordinates beautifully with the other Lamb Dance children's designs from DROPS.

The complete pattern remains free from DROPS Design.

✓ Free Pattern Availability

Lamb Dance Hat / DROPS Children 34-2 is currently available as a free official knitting pattern from DROPS Design. Use the official DROPS link below for the complete current instructions, chart and supporting information.

Lamb Dance Hat at a Glance

Pattern: Lamb Dance Hat / DROPS Children 34-2

Designer: DROPS Design

Pattern Number: me-053-bn

Published: March 2019

Category: Children's Hat / Beanie

Sizes: 3/4, 5/6, 7/8, 9/10 and 11/12 years

Yarn Weight: DK / Yarn Group B

Suggested Yarn: DROPS Merino Extra Fine or DROPS Lima

Main Needles: 3 mm / US 2½

Rib Needles: 2.5 mm / US 1½

Gauge: 23 stitches × 32 rows = 4 in / 10 cm

Construction: Bottom up, worked in the round

Features: Sheep colorwork, ribbing, pompom

Availability: Free official DROPS pattern

About the Lamb Dance Hat

Lamb Dance Hat is a children's colorwork hat designed by DROPS Design.

The most distinctive feature is the cheerful band of sheep worked around the hat using stranded colorwork.

Ribbing creates a comfortable lower edge, while the crown is shaped above the decorative section and finished with a pompom.

It is a particularly fun project if you want to practice stranded knitting on something smaller than a sweater or cardigan.

Five Children's Sizes

The official pattern includes five sizes:

• 3/4 years
• 5/6 years
• 7/8 years
• 9/10 years
• 11/12 years

The corresponding published head circumferences are approximately:

50/53 – 50/53 – 53/54 – 54/56 – 54/56 cm

That's approximately 19¾–22 inches across the size range.

Age is only a general guide. If you are knitting for a specific child, measuring the head circumference is preferable.

Finished Hat Height

DROPS gives approximate finished heights of:

19 – 20 – 21 – 22 – 23 cm

That's approximately:

7½ – 8 – 8¼ – 8¾ – 9 inches

Yarn Choices

DROPS provides two suggested yarn options:

• DROPS Merino Extra Fine
• DROPS Lima

Both belong to DROPS Yarn Group B and work at the required DK-weight gauge, but their fiber compositions and finished feel differ.

Merino Extra Fine is a merino wool yarn, while Lima combines wool and alpaca.

Five Colors Create the Sheep Design

The original version uses five colors.

For DROPS Merino Extra Fine, the published color combination is:

• Pistachio
• Light Grey Blue
• Off White
• Black
• Cerise

DROPS specifies 50 grams of each color for every published size.

A corresponding five-color palette is also provided for DROPS Lima.

Can You Choose Different Colors?

Absolutely. One of the enjoyable features of stranded colorwork is the opportunity to create your own palette.

The most important consideration is contrast.

The sheep and other chart details need enough contrast with the background to remain visible.

Before casting on, place your chosen colors next to each other and make sure the important motifs will not disappear into the background.

Gauge

The official gauge is:

23 stitches × 32 rows = 4 × 4 inches / 10 × 10 cm

This is measured in stockinette stitch using the larger needles.

Gauge matters for hats because the finished circumference must be comfortable without being excessively tight or loose.

Check Your Colorwork Gauge

Stranded knitting can sometimes produce a tighter gauge than ordinary one-color stockinette.

This usually happens when the floats carried behind the work are too tight.

If you are new to stranded knitting, consider making a small colorwork swatch in addition to checking your normal stockinette gauge.

Needles

DROPS recommends:

• 3 mm / US 2½ circular needle, 40 cm / 16 in
• 3 mm / US 2½ double-pointed needles
• 2.5 mm / US 1½ circular needle, 40 cm / 16 in for ribbing

The published sizes are recommendations. Adjust your needles if necessary to obtain the required gauge.

Bottom-Up Construction

Lamb Dance Hat is knitted from the bottom up.

You begin with the lower edge and ribbing, then progress into the main hat and sheep colorwork before shaping the crown.

This construction allows the decorative motif to form a continuous band around the hat.

Worked in the Round

Unlike a flat-knitted hat that requires a back seam, Lamb Dance Hat is worked in the round.

Ravelry classifies the design as one-piece and seamless.

A short circular needle can be used while enough stitches remain on the needle, with double-pointed needles or another suitable small-circumference method used as the crown becomes narrower.

The Sheep Colorwork

The little sheep are the signature feature of the Lamb Dance collection.

They are created using stranded colorwork according to the chart supplied by DROPS Design.

Amazing Knitting does not reproduce the copyrighted chart here. Use the current official DROPS pattern while knitting the motif.

Keep Your Floats Relaxed

When carrying an unused color behind the work, avoid pulling it too tightly.

Tight floats can reduce the circumference of the hat and cause the colorwork fabric to pucker.

Spread the recently worked stitches gently along the right needle before changing colors. This gives the carried yarn enough length to span the stitches comfortably.

Watch Color Dominance

When two colors are carried together, the way you consistently hold them can affect how prominent each color appears in the finished motif.

Try to maintain the same relationship between your background and motif colors throughout each section.

Consistency usually produces cleaner-looking stranded colorwork.

Managing Multiple Colors

Although several colors are used across the complete hat, you will not necessarily be actively knitting with every color at the same moment.

Follow the official chart carefully and organize the yarn so that strands do not become unnecessarily tangled.

Small balls or bobbins can sometimes make multiple contrast colors easier to manage.

Crown Shaping

After the main decorative portion is complete, decreases shape the top of the hat.

As the circumference becomes too small for the short circular needle, switch to double-pointed needles or your preferred small-circumference method while following the official instructions.

The Pompom

A pompom completes the original Lamb Dance Hat.

Take care to attach it securely, particularly when the hat is intended for a child.

As with any children's garment, periodically inspect attached decorations for wear or looseness.

Skills Used in Lamb Dance Hat

This project provides practice with:

• Knitting in the round
• Ribbing
• Stockinette stitch
• Reading a colorwork chart
• Stranded knitting
• Managing yarn floats
• Working with multiple colors
• Crown decreases
• Working a small circumference
• Making and attaching a pompom

A Good Small Colorwork Project

If you want to try stranded knitting but are not ready to commit to a full colorwork sweater, a hat can be an excellent intermediate step.

You still get experience reading a chart, controlling floats and maintaining colorwork tension, but on a much smaller project.

Part of the Lamb Dance Collection

The hat belongs to the same DROPS children's collection as the Lamb Dance Jacket already featured on Amazing Knitting.

Both designs use the playful sheep theme, making them natural coordinating projects.

See the Free Lamb Dance Jacket →

DROPS also published a matching Lamb Dance Sweater, giving knitters several ways to use the same cheerful colorwork theme.

Is Lamb Dance Hat Still Free?

Yes.

Lamb Dance Hat / DROPS Children 34-2 remains available as a complete free knitting pattern directly from DROPS Design.

The official page includes the current written instructions, diagram and supporting information.

Amazing Knitting provides this independent project guide rather than reproducing DROPS Design's complete copyrighted pattern or chart.

Get the Free Lamb Dance Hat Pattern

Visit DROPS Design for the complete free pattern:

Get the Free Lamb Dance Hat Pattern →

More Free Children's Knitting Patterns

Continue exploring free children's projects from the Amazing Knitting archive:

• Free Children's Hat Patterns
• Free Children's Sweater Patterns
• Free Colorwork Knitting Patterns
• DROPS Knitting Patterns

Before You Start

Measure the child's head if possible, choose a suitable Yarn Group B yarn and make sure you can obtain the required gauge.

If stranded knitting is new to you, practice carrying two colors before starting the sheep section and pay particular attention to keeping your floats relaxed.

Finally, work from the current official DROPS page so that you have the complete pattern, chart and supporting information beside you.

Pattern credit: Lamb Dance Hat / DROPS Children 34-2 was designed and published by DROPS Design. Amazing Knitting does not reproduce the designer's complete copyrighted knitting instructions or colorwork chart. Please preserve the existing photograph credit shown on this page.