Berroco Rosalba Cardigan Knitting Pattern

Berroco Rosalba Cardigan: Lace Knit Design

Garment Overview

The Berroco Rosalba is an intermediate-level cardigan from the Ginkgo Fall 2017 Collection, designed by Alison Green. This elegant lace cardigan features a sophisticated construction method and is available in seven sizes ranging from 36" to 60" bust (closed measurements), with finished lengths from 20¾" to 23¼". The garment is designed with approximately 4–6" of ease, allowing for comfortable layering and movement.

Construction Technique

The Rosalba cardigan is worked flat in two separate pieces, each beginning at the sleeve cuffs and worked toward the center back. This two-piece construction method allows for strategic shaping and ease of assembly. Once both pieces are completed, they are joined at the center back using the 3-needle bind off technique, creating a secure and professional seam.

Lace Pattern Stitch

The signature design element of this cardigan is its repeating lace pattern stitch, which creates an open, airy fabric. The pattern is worked over six rows:

• Row 1 (WS): Knit across
• Row 2: Alternating knit two together (K2tog) with yarn overs (yo), ending with a single knit stitch – this creates the characteristic eyelet holes
• Rows 3–6: Knit across in garter stitch

This six-row pattern repeat is worked four times at the sleeve cuffs before transitioning to stockinette stitch, establishing the textured foundation of the piece.

Shaping and Increases

The cardigan features strategic sleeve shaping achieved through make one left (M1L) and make one right (M1R) increases. After the initial lace pattern section and one inch of stockinette stitch, increases are worked at regular intervals to expand the sleeve width. The frequency of increases varies by size, ranging from every 4 to 8 rows, with multiple increase rounds creating a gradual, flattering sleeve cap. This structured approach ensures proper fit across all seven size options.

Yarn and Materials

The Rosalba cardigan is designed to be knitted with Berroco Ginkgo yarn in the colorway #9659 Iolite. Yardage requirements range from 7 to 13 balls (50 grams each), depending on the selected size. The project requires a 29" circular needle in size 8 (5.00 mm) or the size needed to achieve proper gauge, plus a spare circular needle of the same size or smaller for holding stitches during construction. Waste yarn is also recommended for stitch holders.

Gauge and Finishing

To ensure proper fit and drape, the pattern specifies a gauge of 19 stitches and 26 rows over 4 inches in stockinette stitch. Checking gauge before beginning is essential, as variations in tension will affect the final garment measurements. The pattern notes emphasize that taking time to verify gauge will save time during construction and prevent fitting issues.

Skill Level and Design Details

Rated as an intermediate project, the Rosalba cardigan requires familiarity with lace knitting techniques, yarn overs, decreases, and the ability to work with circular needles in a flat construction method. The combination of lace patterning with stockinette shaping creates visual interest while remaining accessible to knitters with foundational skills beyond the beginner level.