Berroco Emmi Cardigan Knitting Pattern

Berroco Emmi Cardigan: Intermediate Knit Pattern

What is Being Made

The Emmi is a button-front cardigan designed by Amy Christoffers from Berroco Book #408. This intermediate-level knitting project features a classic cardigan silhouette with finished bust measurements ranging from 33½" to 59½" across seven size options. The cardigan is designed with 2–4" of positive ease for comfortable wear. The finished length varies from 22" to 24½" depending on size, making it a versatile layering piece suitable for various body types and style preferences.

Construction Techniques

The Emmi cardigan employs an efficient one-piece construction method for the body, which is worked from the bottom up to the underarms before being divided for the back and front panels. This technique minimizes seaming and creates a seamless garment foundation. Once divided, the back and fronts are worked separately in rows to the shoulders, allowing for shaping and customization of the front closure. The sleeves are worked in the round from the cuff to the underarm using double-pointed needles, then the sleeve caps are completed with flat rows. This mixed construction approach combines the efficiency of circular knitting with the control of flat knitting where needed.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The cardigan incorporates multiple stitch techniques to create visual interest and texture. The lower body begins with a ribbed cuff worked in alternating knit and purl stitches (k1, p1 rib) for approximately 2½", which provides elasticity and a polished finish. Above the ribbing, the pattern transitions to stockinette stitch (St st), the foundational smooth fabric created by alternating knit rows on the right side and purl rows on the wrong side. The primary design element features a charted stitch pattern that repeats over 12 stitches and 24 rows, creating a sophisticated textured or colorwork design across the body. This charted pattern is worked with the larger needles and requires careful attention to the pattern repeat, which is worked 14 to 26 times across depending on the size selected.

Yarn and Materials

This cardigan is designed specifically for Berroco Arno yarn in the colorway #5061 Pewter. The pattern requires 8 to 14 balls of yarn depending on size, with each ball weighing 50 grams. Berroco Arno is a smooth, versatile yarn that works beautifully in both stockinette and charted stitch patterns.

The project requires two sizes of circular needles: size 5 (3.75 mm) for the ribbed cuff and size 7 (4.50 mm) for the main body and charted pattern work. The 29" length circular needles accommodate the full body width. Additionally, one set of double-pointed needles in both sizes 5 and 7 are needed for working the sleeves in the round. Standard notions include stitch holders for holding stitches during construction, six 1" buttons for the front closure, and two stitch markers to help track pattern repeats and construction points.

Gauge and Sizing

Accurate gauge is essential for this project. The pattern specifies 21 stitches and 26 rows over 4" in stockinette stitch using the larger needles, and 22 stitches and 26 rows over 4" in the charted stitch pattern also with the larger needles. Knitters are strongly encouraged to swatch and check gauge before beginning to ensure finished measurements match the intended size and fit.