Cardigans Knitting Pattern

Cardigans Knitted in King Cole Fashion Aran

What is Being Made

These are cardigans with raglan sleeves designed in King Cole Fashion Aran yarn. The pattern accommodates multiple sizes, ranging from 81 to 107 cm (32 to 42 inches) in chest measurement, making them suitable for a range of body sizes. The raglan sleeve construction provides a classic fit with sleeves that extend diagonally from the underarm to the neckline.

Techniques Used

This intermediate-level knitting project employs several key techniques:

• Cable work – Including cable 4 back (C4B) and cable 5 back (C5B) stitches that create textured, twisted rope-like patterns
• Twist stitches – Twist 2 right (T2R), twist 2 left (T2L), and twist 3 back (T3B) techniques for adding dimensional detail
• Tension management – Critical to achieving the correct garment size and drape
• Stitch increases and decreases – Used throughout for shaping the raglan sleeves and body
• Slipping stitches – Employed in cable and twist techniques to manipulate stitch placement

Stitches Used

The pattern utilizes a combination of fundamental and decorative stitches:

• Stocking Stitch (St-St) – The primary stitch, created by alternating knit rows on the right side and purl rows on the wrong side, providing a smooth, classic fabric
• Garter Stitch (G-st) – Knitting every row to create a textured, reversible fabric often used for borders and ribbing
• Reversed Garter Stitch (Rev G-st) – The reverse side of garter stitch
• Cable Rib – A combination stitch used for fitted areas, creating texture while maintaining elasticity
• Cable stitches – C4B and C5B create twisted, braided effects characteristic of Aran knitting
• Twist stitches – T2R, T2L, and T3B add decorative spiral and crossed stitch details

Materials Required

This pattern is worked in King Cole Fashion Aran yarn, a medium-weight yarn ideal for creating garments with good structure and drape. The project requires 5mm (US8) knitting needles as the primary needles, along with a cable needle for managing stitches during cable and twist work. A cable needle is essential for temporarily holding stitches while you work cable and twist techniques.

Tension Information

Achieving the correct tension is essential for this project. The pattern specifies 18 stitches and 25 rows to 10cm (4 inches) over Stocking Stitch using 5mm needles, and 24 stitches and 25 rows to 10cm (4 inches) over cable rib using the same needle size. If your tension produces fewer stitches per 10cm than stated, switch to finer needles; if you have more stitches, use larger needles. This adjustment ensures your finished cardigan matches the intended dimensions.

The pattern includes comprehensive abbreviations for standard knitting terminology, enabling knitters to follow instructions accurately throughout the project.