Bay Cardigan Jumper Knitting Pattern

Bay Cardigan in Rowan Handknit Cotton

What is Being Made

The Bay Cardigan is an intermediate-level knitted cardigan sweater designed to fit bust measurements ranging from 71–76 cm (28–30 inches) up to 152–157 cm (60–62 inches). This garment features a classic cardigan construction with front button bands, shaped shoulders, and a tailored neckline. The cardigan is photographed in Ecru 251 and represents a versatile wardrobe staple suitable for various occasions and seasons.

Knitting Techniques Used

This pattern employs several key knitting techniques to achieve its finished structure:

• Body Lace Pattern: The main body of the cardigan is worked in a lace stitch pattern, which creates texture and visual interest while maintaining breathability in the fabric
• Ribbed Sections: Ribbed knit patterns are used for the sleeve cuffs and other edgings to provide elasticity and a neat, finished appearance
• Shoulder Shaping: Graduated cast-off sequences are used to create shaped shoulders that fit smoothly against the body, with varying stitch counts depending on the size being knitted
• Neck Shaping: The front and back necklines are carefully shaped through strategic cast-offs and stitch manipulation, with stitches held on holders during construction for later finishing
• Circular Needle Work: A circular needle is used for the neckband, allowing for seamless finishing around the neck opening

Stitches and Stitch Counts

The Bay Cardigan uses multiple stitch patterns worked at specific gauges to ensure proper fit and drape:

• Body Lace Pattern: Worked at a tension of 21 stitches and 28 rows to 10 cm (4 inches) using 4mm needles
• Sleeve Rib Pattern: Worked at a tension of 22 stitches and 28 rows to 10 cm (4 inches) using 4mm needles
• Stitch Holder Usage: The pattern incorporates stitch holders to manage live stitches during construction, particularly for the back neck (ranging from 42–48 stitches depending on size) and front neck shaping
• Cast-Off Sequences: Graduated cast-offs are used throughout, with specific stitch counts varying by size to create proper garment proportions

Materials: Yarn and Needles

Yarn: The Bay Cardigan is knitted using Rowan Handknit Cotton, a 50-gram ball weight yarn. The pattern requires 14–18 balls depending on the finished size, with the photographed sample worked in Ecru 251. Handknit Cotton is a versatile, breathable yarn suitable for warm-weather garments and provides excellent stitch definition for lace and textured patterns.

Needles: The pattern calls for two pairs of needles in different sizes to create proper gauge and fabric characteristics:

• 1 pair of 3¼mm (US 3) needles for ribbed sections
• 1 pair of 4mm (US 6) needles for the main body and sleeve patterns
• 1 circular 3¼mm (US 3) needle, 40 cm long, for finishing the neckband

Additional Finishing Supplies

The pattern requires stitch holders and stitch markers to manage stitches during construction and to mark pattern repeats, ensuring accurate shaping and alignment throughout the knitting process.