Berroco Connate Cardigan Knitting Pattern

Berroco Connate Cardigan by Norah Gaughan

What Is Being Made

The Berroco Connate is an experienced-level knitted cardigan designed by Norah Gaughan, featured in Norah Gaughan Volume 11. This seamed cardigan is constructed in a bottom-up method and is available in six sizes to fit bust measurements of 34, 38, 42, 46, 50, and 54 inches. The finished garment features a back width at bustline ranging from 18 to 28 inches depending on size, front widths from 13 to 18 inches, and back length to shoulder measurements between 29½ and 33 inches.

Techniques Used

This cardigan employs several key knitting techniques that contribute to its sophisticated construction. The garment is worked flat on straight needles, meaning it is knitted in flat pieces rather than in the round. The bottom-up construction method means the knitter begins at the lower edge and works upward toward the shoulders and neckline. Cable work is incorporated into the design, adding textural interest and visual depth to the finished piece. The individual pieces are seamed together, creating clean, finished edges where the front panels meet the back and where sleeves are attached.

Stitches and Stitch Details

The primary stitch used throughout the cardigan is stockinette stitch, which creates the smooth, classic fabric base. Cable stitches are worked using a cable needle to create twisted, rope-like textures. The pattern includes ribs as structural elements, likely at cuffs, waistband, or front bands to provide elasticity and shape retention. The pattern instructions reference specific rows for ribbing and charted cable sections that vary by size, with rows 1-2 and 67-68 requiring special attention throughout the knitting process.

Materials and Gauge

The Connate cardigan calls for Berroco Blackstone Tweed yarn in color 2602. The yardage requirement varies by size, ranging from 11 to 17 balls of 50-gram weight. The pattern notes that the original design was knit in color 2660, which has been discontinued, making color 2602 the current recommended substitute. Knitters will need size 7 (4.5mm) straight knitting needles or the size necessary to achieve proper gauge, along with a cable needle, stitch markers, and stitch holders for managing stitches during construction. The recommended gauge is 18 stitches and 25 rows over 4 inches in stockinette stitch, making accurate gauge swatching essential before beginning this experienced-level project.

Pattern Structure Notes

The Connate follows a modular construction approach where the knitter works a bottom band first, then picks up stitches along the band to begin the body. The pattern specifies picking up between 120 and 208 stitches depending on size, indicating a substantial garment. The inclusion of schematic reference points (marked as points B and C) helps knitters understand where to pick up stitches accurately. This downloadable PDF pattern is part of the Berroco collection and may be updated if corrections are discovered, ensuring knitters have access to the most accurate instructions.