Cecelia Cardigan Knitting Pattern

Cecelia Cardigan in Rowan Four Seasons

What Is Being Made

The Cecelia Cardigan is a sophisticated knitted cardigan designed by Quails Studio, available in nine sizes to fit chest measurements ranging from 71-76cm (28-30 inches) through to 152-157cm (60-62 inches). This advanced beginner knitting project creates a refined garment with a finished chest measurement range of 102cm to 182cm, making it suitable for a wide variety of body types and fit preferences.

Techniques Used

This cardigan incorporates several key knitting techniques that build foundational skills. The construction begins with ribbed edging worked in a 2x2 rib pattern to create elasticated cuffs and hems. The main body features moss stitch patterning, which creates a subtle textured fabric through alternating knit and purl stitches. The design also includes charted colorwork or stitch patterns on the front panels, with an 8-stitch repeat worked across multiple rows. Shoulder shaping is achieved through strategic cast-offs at the beginning of rows, and neckline shaping is managed using stitch holders to create a finished neck edge. The cardigan is completed with a circular needle band worked around the entire perimeter for a professional finish.

Stitches Used

• Knit (K) - The fundamental stitch creating the base fabric
• Purl (P) - Used in combination with knit stitches for texture and pattern
• Moss Stitch - An alternating knit and purl pattern (K1, P1 on one row; P1, K1 on the next) that creates a dense, textured surface
• Ribbed Stitching - A 2x2 rib pattern (K2, P2 repeat) used for edging and cuffs to provide stretch and recovery
• Cast-off - Used to bind off stitches at shoulders and throughout the garment for secure edges
• Charted Pattern Stitches - An 8-stitch repeat pattern worked from a chart on the front panels, repeated multiple times depending on size

Materials

This cardigan is knitted using Rowan Four Seasons Cotton, a natural fiber yarn supplied in 50-gram balls. The project is photographed in the colorway Blossom 006. Knitting is worked on 5mm (US 8) needles, including one pair of straight needles and one 5mm circular needle measuring at least 120cm in length for working the band. The tension is established at 16 stitches and 24 rows to 10cm measured over the pattern using 5mm needles, and 15 stitches and 24 rows to 10cm measured over moss stitch. Additional notions include stitch holders and stitch markers to manage stitches during construction and shaping.

Skill Considerations

Rated as advanced beginner level, the Cecelia Cardigan provides an excellent progression for knitters who have mastered basic techniques. The combination of moss stitch texture, charted pattern work, and fitted shaping through strategic decreases offers meaningful skill development while remaining achievable for those with foundational knitting experience.