Berroco Abree Cardigan Knitting Pattern

Berroco Abree Cardigan: Seamless Top-Down Knit Design

What is Being Made

The Berroco Abree is an intermediate-level cardigan designed by Amy Christoffers. This garment features a classic cardigan silhouette with a button front closure, available in seven size options ranging from 33" to 51" bust measurement (closed). The finished length varies from 27½" to 31" depending on size selected. The cardigan is designed with 2 to 6 inches of ease for comfortable wearing, making it suitable for layering or worn as a standalone piece.

Construction Techniques

The Abree cardigan is constructed using a seamless, top-down approach, which eliminates the need for seaming after completion. The garment is worked flat rather than in the round for most sections, allowing for easier shaping and finishing. The construction method begins at the neckline and works downward, with the yoke featuring raglan shaping to create smooth, fitted armholes. Once the yoke is complete, the piece is divided to allow the body and sleeves to be worked separately. The body continues downward in one piece from the top, while the sleeves are worked from the top down in the round using double-pointed needles. The front band is picked up and worked during the finishing stages, completing the button band and front edges.

Stitches and Stitch Techniques

The primary stitch used throughout the Abree cardigan is Seed stitch, which creates a textured, reversible fabric with visual interest. The gauge is established at 20 stitches and 28 rows over 4 inches when worked in Seed stitch on the larger needle size. The pattern incorporates lifted increases for shaping, including both left lifted increases (LLI) and right lifted increases (RLI). These increase techniques are used during raglan shaping to create the gradual expansion needed for the yoke. Stitch markers are used throughout to denote pattern sections and shaping points, with the pattern requiring four stitch markers. Stitch holders and waste yarn are recommended for holding sleeve stitches while the body is being completed.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The Abree cardigan is designed to be worked in Berroco Elba yarn, a fiber choice that creates the appropriate drape and texture for this design. Yardage requirements range from 10 to 15 balls depending on the size selected, with each ball weighing 50 grams. The colorway shown in the pattern is #7740 Small Sea Hare. The pattern calls for 36" length circular knitting needles in sizes 5 (3.75 mm) and 6 (4.00 mm), allowing knitters to choose the needle size that achieves the correct gauge. Additionally, one set of four double-pointed needles in both sizes 5 and 6 is required for working the sleeves in the round. Six ¾" buttons are needed to complete the front closure. Knitters are advised to check gauge before beginning the project to ensure proper fit and finished measurements.