Ceira Cardigan Knitting Pattern

Ceira Cardigan in Berroco Indio

What is Being Made

The Ceira Cardigan is an intermediate-level knitted cardigan designed by Amy Christoffers, featured in Berroco Booklet #405. This garment is constructed as a two-piece cardigan with set-in sleeves, offering a classic and versatile layering piece. The finished measurements range from 36" to 60" bust (closed), with corresponding lengths from 21½" to 24½", providing options for multiple sizes and body types. The cardigan shown in the sample is size 48" with approximately 7" of ease, creating a comfortable, relaxed fit.

Construction Technique

The Ceira Cardigan employs a distinctive two-piece construction method that begins at the sleeve cuffs rather than the traditional top-down approach. Both the right and left pieces are worked separately, starting from the sleeve edges and progressing toward the center back. Once both pieces are completed, they are joined at the center back using a three-needle bind off technique, which creates a strong, neat seam. The front, neck, and cuff edges are finished with an applied I-Cord, adding a refined, professional detail to the garment's perimeter.

Stitches and Techniques Used

• Stockinette Stitch (St st): The primary stitch pattern throughout the cardigan, creating a smooth, classic fabric
• Increases: M1L (make one left) and M1R (make one right) increases are used strategically to shape the sleeves. The increase pattern varies by size, occurring every 4th, 6th, or 8th row depending on the desired sleeve cap shaping
• Three-Needle Bind Off: Used to join the two cardigan pieces at the center back seam, eliminating the need for a separate seaming step
• Applied I-Cord: A decorative and functional edging technique applied to the front opening, neckline, and cuff edges for a polished finish
• Gauge Considerations: The pattern emphasizes the importance of checking gauge before beginning, with a specified gauge of 22 stitches and 31 rows over 4" in stockinette stitch

Materials: Yarn and Needles

Yarn: Berroco Indio is the specified yarn for this project. The yardage requirements range from 9 to 15 balls (50 grams each) depending on size, with the sample shown using color #7305 Granite. Berroco Indio is a worsted-weight yarn that provides excellent stitch definition in stockinette stitch.

Needles and Notions: The pattern calls for two 29" circular needles in size 6 (4.00 mm), which are used for working the main body and sleeves. A spare knitting needle in the same size is recommended for holding stitches during construction. Additionally, two double-pointed needles in size 3 (3.25 mm) are needed for the I-Cord edging. Waste yarn is required to temporarily hold stitches during the assembly process.

Skill Level and Gauge

Rated as an intermediate-level project, the Ceira Cardigan requires knitters to be comfortable with basic shaping techniques, circular needle work, and finishing methods. The pattern emphasizes the critical importance of checking gauge before beginning, as accurate gauge ensures that the finished measurements will match the schematic. At the specified gauge of 22 stitches and 31 rows equaling 4" in stockinette stitch, knitters can achieve the intended fit and drape of the garment.