Berroco Piave Cardigan Knitting Pattern

Berroco Piave Cardigan

What is Being Made

The Berroco Piave is a classic cardigan sweater designed by the Berroco Design Team. This easy-level knitting project features a timeless silhouette available in six sizes ranging from 32" to 52" bust measurement, with finished lengths between 29" and 32" depending on size. The cardigan is shown in size 36" with approximately 4" of ease for comfortable wearing.

Construction Techniques

The Piave cardigan is constructed using a bottom-up, seamed, and worked-flat approach. This traditional method means the garment pieces are knitted individually from the lower edges upward, then assembled together using seaming techniques. Working flat on straight needles allows for straightforward shaping and a methodical building process ideal for knitters of all experience levels.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The pattern employs several fundamental knitting stitches:

• Stockinette Stitch (St st) — forms the primary fabric of the cardigan body, creating a smooth, classic appearance
• Ribbed Knit-Purl Pattern (K2, P2 rib) — used for the set-up ribbing at the lower edge and waistband areas, providing elasticity and definition
• Decreases (K2tog and SSK) — worked strategically to shape the waist and create a fitted silhouette
• Increases (M1R and M1L) — used to add fullness through the hip and bust areas for shaping

Materials and Tools

The Piave cardigan is knitted using Berroco Aero yarn in the colorway #8012 Stratus. Yardage requirements range from 4 to 7 cakes (50 grams each) depending on the finished size selected. Knitters will need two sets of needles: size 11 (8.00 mm) needles for the ribbed sections and size 13 (9.00 mm) needles for the stockinette stitch body. Additional supplies include 1 stitch marker, 2 stitch holders, and a tapestry needle for seaming and finishing.

Gauge and Fit

The pattern specifies a gauge of 12 stitches and 16 rows equals 4 inches in stockinette stitch on the larger needles. Berroco recommends checking gauge carefully before beginning to ensure accurate finished measurements and proper fit. The cardigan features strategic shaping with decrease rows worked every 10 rows to cinch the waist, followed by increase rows to add volume through the hip and bust regions, creating a flattering, contoured fit.