Berroco Japonica Cardigan Knitting Pattern

Berroco Japonica Cardigan: Seamless Top-Down Knit Design

What Is Being Made

The Berroco Japonica is an intermediate-level cardigan pattern designed by Amy Christoffers, featured in Berroco Booklet #363. This garment is a relaxed-fit cardigan intended to be worn with generous ease, available in four size ranges from XS/S through 3X/4X. The finished bust measurements range from 54 to 72 inches when closed, with lengths varying from 25 to 28 inches including the collar and lower ribbing. The design features fronts that are wider than the back, creating a distinctive silhouette.

Construction Techniques

The Japonica cardigan employs a seamless, top-down construction method, which means knitters begin at the neckline and work downward toward the hem. This approach eliminates the need for seaming and allows for easy fitting adjustments as you progress. The pattern utilizes both flat and in-the-round knitting techniques. The upper section of the garment is worked flat on circular needles, while other sections transition to working in the round using circular needles and double-pointed needles as needed. This hybrid approach combines the benefits of seamless construction with the flexibility of flat knitting where shaping requires it.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The Japonica features charted cable patterns combined with Reverse Stockinette Stitch as the primary stitch work. The pattern includes a detailed gauge specification of 22 stitches and 30 rows equaling 4 inches when worked in the charted pattern and Reverse Stockinette Stitch on the larger needles. The inclusion of cables adds textural interest and visual depth to the design, while the reverse stockinette provides a smooth, refined background that allows the cable work to stand out prominently.

Materials and Yarn Requirements

The Japonica is designed to be worked in Berroco Artisan yarn, a worsted-weight option available in the colorway Scotia Sea (#6030). Yardage requirements range from 11 to 16 hanks depending on the size being knitted, with each hank weighing 50 grams. Knitters will need two sizes of circular knitting needles—size 6 (4.00 mm) and size 7 (4.50 mm), both in 36-inch length for the main body work. A 16-inch circular needle in size 7 (4.50 mm) is required for smaller circumferences, and one set of four double-pointed needles in both sizes 6 and 7 are necessary for working smaller sections. Additional supplies include waste yarn for holding stitches and stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats. As with all Berroco patterns, checking gauge before beginning is strongly recommended to ensure proper fit and finished measurements.