Berroco Cardenas Cardigan Knitting Pattern

Berroco Cardenas Knit Cardigan

What is Being Made

The Cardenas is a classic knit cardigan designed by Amy Christoffers, featured in Berroco Booklet #361. This intermediate-level garment is available in seven sizes ranging from 36" to 60" bust (closed measurements), with finished lengths between 31½" and 34½" depending on size. The cardigan is designed with approximately 3–6" of ease for a comfortable, relaxed fit suitable for layering.

Construction Techniques

The Cardenas cardigan is worked flat in three separate pieces using a bottom-up construction method. The back and front panels are knit separately from the base upward, while sleeves are created with stitches cast on specifically for sleeve shaping. Once all pieces are completed, the garment is finished with seamed construction, with shoulder seams sewn entirely from the neck edges to the outer edges of the sleeve cuffs for a secure, durable join.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The primary stitch used throughout the Cardenas is stockinette stitch (St st), which creates the smooth, classic fabric characteristic of traditional cardigans. The pattern begins with ribbing at the cast-on edge, which provides elasticity and helps the garment maintain its shape. The ribbing is worked in the round using smaller needles before transitioning to stockinette stitch on larger needles for the body.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The Cardenas is designed to be knit with Berroco Briza yarn in the colorway #9370 Monterey. Yarn requirements range from 6 balls for the smallest size to 11 balls for the largest size, with each ball weighing 40 grams. This yardage allows knitters to complete the entire three-piece cardigan with appropriate length and fit across all available sizes.

Needles and Gauge

The pattern calls for two sizes of circular knitting needles: size 7 (4.50 mm) and size 9 (5.50 mm), or appropriate substitute sizes to achieve the specified gauge. A 29" length or longer circular needle is recommended for working the larger pieces. The target gauge is 18 stitches and 26 rows over 4 inches in stockinette stitch on the larger needles. Berroco emphasizes the importance of checking gauge before beginning the project to ensure proper fit and finished measurements.