Aretha Cardigan Knitting Pattern

Aretha Cardigan in Rowan Alpaca Classic

What is Being Made

The Aretha Cardigan is a knitted cardigan sweater designed by Lisa Richardson. This intermediate-level garment is available in nine sizes ranging from bust 71-76 cm (28-30 inches) to 152-157 cm (60-62 inches), with corresponding finished circumferences from 111.5 cm to 195 cm at the hem. The cardigan features front bands, set-in sleeves, and includes functional patch pockets on the back section.

Knitting Techniques Used

This pattern employs several essential knitting techniques suitable for intermediate crafters. The construction involves shaping at the neck and armholes through strategic decreasing, with neck shaping worked over multiple rows using single stitch decreases at the neck edge. Sleeve cap shaping is achieved through cast-off decreases at the beginning of alternating rows. The pattern demonstrates pocket construction with separate pocket bags knitted in stockinette stitch that are later integrated into the garment. Band finishing is incorporated with a front band section that uses stitch manipulation for a refined edge. The cardigan also features waist shaping through decreasing and increasing sequences to create a fitted silhouette.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The primary stitch used throughout the Aretha Cardigan is stockinette stitch (st st), which creates a smooth, classic fabric ideal for showcasing the yarn's qualities. The pattern includes knit and purl combinations for textural variation, particularly in the front band shaping. Knit-front-and-back increases are used to add stitches during shaping sequences, while purl two together decreases (P2tog) and knit two together decreases (K2tog) are employed for waist shaping and armhole/neck decreases. These stitch techniques work together to create a well-proportioned, fitted cardigan with clean lines.

Materials: Yarn and Needles

The Aretha Cardigan is designed to be knitted using Rowan Alpaca Classic yarn, a luxurious natural fiber. The pattern specifies yarn quantities ranging from 14 to 22 balls of 25-gram skeins depending on the size selected. The photographed sample is shown in the colorway Purple Rain 123. Knitting is worked on 3¾mm (US 5) needles, with the pattern requiring one pair of straight needles and one 3¾mm circular needle at least 100 cm long for working the front band. The recommended tension is 23 stitches and 31 rows to 10 cm measured over stockinette stitch using the specified needle size, ensuring proper fit and drape of the finished garment.