Berroco Fryda Cardigan Knitting Pattern

Berroco Fryda Cardigan: Knitted Design by Åsa Buchta

What Is Being Made

The Berroco Fryda is an intermediate-level knitted cardigan designed by Åsa Buchta. This garment features a classic button-front closure with nine 5/8" buttons and is constructed using a top-down method, beginning at the neck and working downward to the hem. The cardigan is available in nine different sizes, ranging from 37" to 69" bust measurement (94 cm to 175.5 cm), with corresponding length options from 19" to 23" measured down the center back (48.5 cm to 58.5 cm). The design includes a shaped neckline created using short-row shaping techniques to provide a refined, fitted finish at the neck opening.

Construction Techniques

The Fryda cardigan employs a top-down construction method, which allows knitters to try on the garment as it progresses and easily adjust the length to personal preference. The yoke is shaped using short-row shaping at the neck, a technique that creates gradual increases and contours without adding bulk, resulting in a smooth, professional neckline. The garment is worked in the round using circular needles for the body sections, with double-pointed needles used for smaller circumference areas such as the sleeves. This construction approach minimizes seaming and creates a seamless, integrated garment structure.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The Fryda cardigan features stockinette stitch (St st) as the primary fabric, which creates a smooth, classic knit surface. The ribbed edging at the neckline and button bands is worked in 1x1 ribbing (alternating knit and purl stitches), which provides elasticity and a refined, finished appearance. The pattern includes a buttonhole row worked in ribbing, incorporating yarn-over increases to create functional button openings while maintaining the ribbed texture. The combination of stockinette and ribbed sections creates visual interest and ensures proper fit at the edges.

Yarn and Materials

The Fryda cardigan uses two complementary Berroco yarns worked together throughout the entire garment. Berroco Ultra Wool (100 grams per ball) in colorway #3305 Oat (C1) forms the primary yarn, with quantities ranging from 3 to 7 balls depending on size. Berroco Aerial Color (25 grams per ball) in colorway #34100 Monet (C2) is held together with the Ultra Wool, adding visual depth and texture. This two-yarn combination is worked as a single strand throughout, creating a blended color effect. The recommended gauge is 16 stitches and 22 rows over 4 inches (10 cm) in stockinette stitch using the two yarns held together on the larger needles, measured after blocking.

Needles and Notions

The pattern requires 32-inch circular needles in two sizes: size 7 (4.5 mm) for ribbed sections and size 9 (5.5 mm) for the main stockinette fabric. A set of double-pointed needles in both sizes is also needed for working smaller circumferences. Additional notions include 2 stitch markers to denote pattern sections, 2 stitch holders for temporarily securing stitches, nine 5/8" buttons for the front closure, and waste yarn for holding stitches during construction. Proper gauge checking is emphasized as essential for achieving accurate finished measurements.

Sizing and Fit

The Fryda cardigan is designed with 2–4 inches (5–10 cm) of positive ease, meaning the finished bust measurement is intentionally larger than the wearer's actual bust measurement. This ease allowance ensures comfortable wearing and accommodates layering. The nine available sizes provide options for a wide range of body measurements and proportions, with bust sizes from 37" to 69" and corresponding length adjustments from 19" to 23".