Berroco Sprag Cardigan Knitting Pattern

Berroco Sprag Cardigan by Norah Gaughan

What Is Being Made

The Sprag is a women's cardigan designed by renowned knitwear designer Norah Gaughan, featured in Norah Gaughan Vol. 14. This cardigan is crafted as a seamless, top-down garment available in seven sizes to fit bust measurements from 30 inches to 54 inches, with the sample shown in size 42 inches. The finished back width ranges from 32 inches to 56 inches depending on size, with a center back length varying from 21 inches to 24¾ inches, providing approximately 2 inches of ease for comfortable wearing.

Techniques Used

The Sprag employs several advanced knitting techniques suitable for intermediate-level knitters. The garment is worked seamlessly from the top down, eliminating the need for seaming and creating a more polished, professional finish. Lace stitch work is incorporated throughout the design, adding visual interest and texture to the finished piece. The pattern is worked flat using circular needles, which provide flexibility and comfort during the knitting process despite the flat construction method. Strategic increases are worked throughout the pattern to shape the garment as it grows downward from the neckline.

Stitches and Stitch Details

The foundation of this cardigan is built on stockinette stitch, which creates a smooth, classic fabric base. Lace elements are incorporated through charted stitch patterns, including a left collar chart and right collar chart that are worked simultaneously as the garment expands. Increases are strategically placed using make-one (m1) increases positioned at marked intervals to create the proper shaping. The pattern utilizes stitch markers and stitch holders to manage the multiple sections being worked concurrently, with five distinct marker positions managing the front panels, side seams, and back panel.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

This pattern calls for Berroco Folio yarn in color 4510. The yardage requirement ranges from 4 balls for the smallest size to 7 balls for the largest size. Berroco Folio is worked at a gauge of 22 stitches and 30 rows over 4 inches in stockinette stitch using the larger needles. The pattern requires two circular knitting needles: one in size 4 (3.5mm) and one in size 6 (4mm), or whatever size is necessary to achieve the specified gauge. Additional notions include stitch markers and a stitch holder for managing stitches during construction.

Pattern Notes

This is an intermediate-level pattern that requires attention to detail, particularly with the charted lace sections and the simultaneous increases required for proper shaping. The pattern emphasizes the importance of checking gauge before beginning, as gauge accuracy directly impacts the finished measurements and fit of the garment. The Sprag is part of the official Norah Gaughan Vol. 14 collection and is available as a downloadable PDF pattern.