Uptown Downtown Coat Cardigan Knitting Pattern

Uptown Downtown Coat

What is Being Made

The Uptown Downtown Coat is a knitted cardigan designed by Spud and Chloe. This garment features a sophisticated construction with finished bust measurements ranging from 33 to 50 inches, accommodating multiple sizes. The coat is worked flat on needles and features a seamed construction, making it an ideal project for knitters seeking a structured, tailored outerwear piece. The back length without collar ranges from 32¼ to 35¼ inches, with sleeves measuring approximately 19¼ to 20¼ inches, creating a classic, wearable silhouette.

Techniques Used

This pattern employs seamed construction and is worked flat on straight needles, meaning pieces are knitted individually and then sewn together to form the finished garment. The pattern utilizes a provisional cast-on technique, which allows stitches to be unraveled later to create a finished hem. This advanced technique involves casting on with waste yarn, then carefully unraveling it to pick up live stitches for joining. The pattern also incorporates a turning row and hem-joining technique, where the knitter unravels the provisional cast-on and uses a joining row to seamlessly attach the hem to the body of the coat.

Stitches Used

The Uptown Downtown Coat is primarily constructed in stockinette stitch, the fundamental stitch that creates the smooth, classic fabric characteristic of traditional knitwear. The pattern also features a pattern stitch worked over a multiple of 2 stitches plus 1, adding textural interest to the design. Decreases are incorporated throughout the pattern, including k2tog (knit 2 together) decreases, which are used for shaping and construction details. The pattern includes both knit and purl rows to create the desired fabric texture and structure.

Materials and Gauge

The pattern calls for yarn in multiple colors: main color (MC) and contrasting color (CC), which are strategically used throughout the design. Knitters will need needles appropriate for their chosen yarn weight. Gauge is critical for this project: in stockinette stitch, 18 stitches and 23 rows equal 4 inches, while in pattern stitch, 20 stitches and 20 rows equal 4 inches. Achieving proper gauge ensures the finished coat will fit correctly across the bust and maintain the intended proportions. The pattern requires careful yarn management, particularly when working with contrasting colors, as the designer notes that using continuous strands of color will minimize the number of yarn ends to weave in during finishing.