Berroco Sintra Cardigan Knitting Pattern

Berroco Sintra Cardigan

What Is Being Made

The Berroco Sintra is an intermediate-level cardigan designed by Amy Christoffers. This garment is a classic button-front cardigan available in ten sizes, ranging from 34 inches to 70 inches in bust measurement. The finished length varies from approximately 19 inches in the smallest size to 22½ inches in the largest size, making it a cropped to standard-length cardigan suitable for layering and everyday wear.

Construction Techniques

The Sintra cardigan is constructed using a bottom-up, seamed, worked-flat method. This approach means all pattern pieces are knitted individually in flat rows rather than in the round, then carefully sewn together during finishing. The collar and front bands are added as finishing details after the main body pieces are assembled. This construction method provides excellent control over shaping and creates clean, professional seams.

Stitches and Pattern Details

The cardigan features a simple yet elegant Pattern Stitch worked over a multiple of 2 stitches plus 1. The stitch pattern alternates between knit rows on the right side and purl rows on the wrong side, creating a classic stockinette texture. This straightforward stitch pattern makes the design accessible for intermediate knitters while allowing the yarn's qualities to shine through. The gauge is 22 stitches and 30 rows over 4 inches in the pattern stitch when measured on the larger needles after blocking, which is essential to verify before beginning the project.

Materials and Tools Required

• Yarn: Berroco Gaia in colorway #3028 Forest. Yardage requirements range from 7 balls (350 grams) for the smallest size to 16 balls (800 grams) for the largest size. Each ball weighs 50 grams.
• Needles: Two sets of knitting needles are required—size 3 (3.25 mm) for ribbing and edgings, and size 5 (3.75 mm) for the main pattern stitch, or whatever size is needed to achieve the specified gauge.
• Notions: Six ½-inch (15 mm) buttons for the front closure and stitch markers to track pattern repeats and shaping.

Sizing and Fit

The pattern provides generous sizing options with approximately 2 to 4 inches of positive ease recommended, allowing for comfortable movement and a relaxed fit. Bust measurements range from 34 inches up to 70 inches, accommodating a wide range of body types. The relatively consistent length across sizes (with only a 3½-inch difference between the smallest and largest) makes this a versatile design for various proportions.

Shaping Details

The cardigan incorporates structured shoulder shaping achieved through strategic bind-offs at the beginning of rows. The pattern specifies different bind-off quantities depending on size, creating properly proportioned shoulders. The back neck opening is clearly defined with a bind-off of 41 stitches reserved for the neckline, providing adequate space for comfortable wearing and collar attachment during finishing.