Berroco Daphne Cardigan Knitting Pattern

Berroco Daphne Cardigan: Knit Lace Design

What Is Being Made

The Daphne is a sophisticated knit cardigan designed by Amy Christoffers, suitable for intermediate-level knitters. This garment features a classic button-front closure with six ¾" buttons and is available in nine sizes ranging from 34¾" to 69¾" bust circumference (closed). The cardigan offers a refined silhouette with finished lengths ranging from 21" to 24½" depending on size, making it versatile for various body types and style preferences.

Construction Method

The Daphne is constructed using a bottom-up approach, which allows knitters to try on the garment as it progresses. The body is worked flat in one continuous piece from the cast-on edge up to the underarms, where it is then divided into separate sections for the back and front panels. These sections are completed in rows to the shoulders. The sleeves are initially worked in the round to the underarms using double-pointed needles, then the sleeve caps transition to flat row-by-row construction. The finished pieces are seamed together to create the final garment structure.

Techniques and Stitches

This intermediate cardigan incorporates lace patterning as a primary design element, worked from charted instructions. The body begins with a ribbed cuff worked in knit and purl ribbing (alternating k1, p1) to create a stretchy, fitted edge that measures 2" from the cast-on. The main fabric is constructed in stockinette stitch (St st), which creates a smooth, classic knit surface. The lace pattern is integrated into the stockinette background using the charted pattern provided in the PDF, adding visual interest and texture to the finished cardigan.

Materials: Yarn and Needles

The Daphne pattern calls for Berroco Cambria yarn in the colorway #7942 Oak. Yarn quantities vary by size, ranging from 8 hanks for the smallest size to 16 hanks for the largest size. Berroco Cambria is a premium yarn choice that works beautifully with the lace and stockinette stitch combination.

Two sizes of circular needles are required: size 5 (3.75 mm) for the ribbed cuff and size 7 (4.5 mm) for the main body and lace pattern work. Both needle sizes should be 32" in length for working the body. Additionally, one set each of double-pointed needles in sizes 5 and 7 is needed for the in-the-round sleeve construction. The pattern specifies a gauge of 22 stitches and 28 rows over 4 inches in stockinette stitch and charted pattern using the larger needles, making accurate gauge checking essential before beginning.

Additional Notions

• Stitch holders for securing stitches during construction
• Six ¾" (19 mm) buttons for the front closure
• Stitch marker for tracking pattern repeats and construction points

Sizing and Fit

The pattern recommends 2–4 inches of positive ease, meaning the finished bust measurement should be 2–4 inches larger than your actual bust measurement for comfortable wear. This ease allowance ensures the cardigan drapes elegantly without clinging to the body. Finished bust measurements range from 34¾" to 69¾" with corresponding length options from 21" to 24½", accommodating a wide range of sizing needs.