Cardigans Knitting Pattern

Cardigans in Stylecraft Savannah 9981

What is Being Made

This downloadable knitting pattern provides instructions for creating cardigans in Stylecraft Savannah yarn. The design is available in two sleeve length options: a three-quarter sleeved cardigan and a long sleeved cardigan. The pattern includes five size options ranging from 81-86cm (32-34 inches) bust measurement up to 122-127cm (48-50 inches), making it suitable for a wide range of body sizes. The cardigans feature an elegant lace design that creates a sophisticated, wearable garment suitable for various occasions.

Techniques and Construction

This beginner-friendly cardigan pattern employs classic knitting techniques suitable for those new to garment construction. The pattern uses the thumb method for casting on stitches, a fundamental technique for starting knitting projects. The garment is constructed in pieces—a back panel and left front panel are detailed in the pattern—which are then assembled together. The construction begins with garter stitch edging before transitioning into the main lace pattern, providing a structured foundation for the decorative elements.

The pattern incorporates shaping techniques including decreases at the shoulders to create proper garment fit and structure. The two-row lace repeat is worked consistently throughout the body of the cardigan, creating a uniform, professional appearance. This straightforward construction method makes the pattern accessible to knitters developing their garment-making skills.

Stitches Used

The primary stitches featured in this pattern include:

• Garter Stitch (g-st): Worked by knitting every row, this stitch creates a textured, reversible fabric and is used for the initial edging rows
• Knit Stitch (k): The fundamental stitch used throughout the pattern
• Purl Stitch (p): Used on alternate rows to create the lace pattern structure
• Yarn Forward (yfwd): Creates the decorative eyelet holes characteristic of lace knitting
• Knit Two Together (k2tog): A right-leaning decrease used to shape the garment and create lace pattern definition
• Slip, Knit Two Together, Pass Slip Stitch Over (s1, k2tog, psso): A centered double decrease that forms the distinctive lace motif in the pattern
• Slip One, Knit One, Pass Slip Stitch Over (s1, k1, psso): A left-leaning decrease used for shaping

The two-row lace pattern repeats throughout the body of the cardigan, alternating between a pattern row featuring yarn forwards and decreases, and a purl row that sets up the next pattern repeat. This creates the characteristic openwork lace design while maintaining structural integrity.

Materials

The pattern calls for Stylecraft Savannah yarn, a random-dyed yarn that creates a unique color effect in the finished garment. Yarn requirements vary by sleeve length and size: the three-quarter sleeved cardigan requires 5 to 7 balls of 100g yarn depending on size, while the long sleeved cardigan requires 6 to 8 balls of 100g yarn. Two colorway options are specified—Steppe (3795) and Prairie (3793)—each producing different aesthetic results in the finished cardigan.

The pattern is worked on 4½mm (UK size 7, USA size 7) knitting needles. The tension is specified as 3 pattern repeats measuring 13.5cm, which is essential information for achieving the correct finished garment measurements. A single pair of needles is required for this project, making it a straightforward knitting endeavor without the need for multiple needle sizes or specialized equipment.