Debbie Bliss Natalya Cardigan Knitting Pattern

Debbie Bliss Natalya Cardigan

What is Being Made

The Natalya Cardigan is an advanced-level knitted cardigan designed to fit chest measurements from 81-147 cm (32-58 inches). This garment is available in seven different sizes with finished chest measurements ranging from 104 cm to 170 cm. The cardigan features a length to back neck ranging from 53-65 cm depending on size, with consistent sleeve length of 40 cm when the cuff is turned up. This is a sophisticated knitwear project suitable for experienced knitters seeking a polished, professional-quality garment.

Techniques Used

The Natalya Cardigan employs several advanced knitting techniques that contribute to its sophisticated construction. The garment is worked flat, meaning it is knitted on straight needles in separate pieces rather than in the round. The cardigan is constructed using a bottom-up method, where pieces are knitted starting from the lower edges and working upward toward the shoulders and neckline. The finished pieces are then seamed together, creating neat, professional joins. Cable work is a prominent design feature, with the pattern incorporating cable stitches that add visual interest and texture to the finished cardigan.

Stitches Used

The primary stitch throughout the Natalya Cardigan is stocking stitch (stockinette stitch in American terminology), which creates the smooth, classic fabric base. Cable stitches are worked using specific cable techniques: C6B (slip next 3 stitches onto cable needle and hold at back of work, knit 3, then knit 3 from cable needle) and C6F (slip next 3 stitches onto cable needle and hold to front of work, knit 3, then knit 2 from cable needle) create the decorative cable patterns. Additional stitches employed include knit and purl stitches for shaping, with abbreviations such as k2tog (knit two stitches together) for decreasing, m1 (make one stitch) for increasing, and various slip stitches for shaping and finishing details. The pattern also incorporates wrap stitches on both knit and purl rows to create smooth shaping transitions.

Materials

The Natalya Cardigan is knitted using Debbie Bliss Rialto DK yarn, a double-knitting weight yarn available in 50-gram balls. Yarn requirements vary by size, with quantities ranging from approximately 12 to 19 balls depending on which of the seven sizes is being knitted. The pattern specifies a tension (gauge) of 12-19 stitches depending on size, measured over stocking stitch. Standard knitting needles appropriate for DK-weight yarn and the specified gauge are required, along with a cable needle for working the cable stitches. The yarn is available through LoveCrafts.com, making it readily accessible for knitters undertaking this project.