Debbie Bliss Queenie Knitting Pattern

Debbie Bliss Queenie Cardigan

What is Being Made

The Queenie is an advanced-level knitted cardigan designed by Debbie Bliss, available in seven sizes ranging from 81-86cm to 142-147cm chest circumference (32-34 inches to 56-58 inches). This seamed, flat-worked garment features sophisticated cable detailing throughout and is finished with seven buttons for closure. The cardigan offers finished chest measurements from 93cm to 156cm (36¾ inches to 61½ inches) with lengths ranging from 53cm to 63cm (20¾ inches to 24¾ inches), and consistent sleeve length of 46cm (18 inches) across all sizes.

Techniques Used

This cardigan employs several advanced knitting techniques that distinguish it as a project for experienced knitters. The primary construction method involves working flat on straight needles, which allows for the careful placement and execution of intricate stitch patterns. The garment is seamed, meaning individual pieces are knitted separately and then sewn together, requiring precision in both knitting and finishing work.

Cable work forms the decorative foundation of the Queenie. Multiple cable techniques are utilized throughout the pattern, including standard four-stitch cables (C4B and C4F), twisted cables (T3L, T3R, and T5L), and bobble stitches. These techniques create dimensional texture and visual interest across the body and sleeves. The cable needle is essential for holding stitches while executing these complex maneuvers, and stitch markers help track pattern repeats and shaping increases.

Stitches Used

The Queenie pattern incorporates the following key stitches and stitch techniques:

• Stocking stitch (stockinette stitch): The primary background fabric, created by alternating knit and purl rows
• Cable stitches: C4B (cable 4 back) and C4F (cable 4 front) for standard four-stitch cables
• Twisted cable stitches: T3L, T3R, and T5L for more complex cable variations that combine knit and purl elements
• Bobble stitch: Created by working multiple stitches into a single stitch, turning, and decreasing back to one stitch for textured embellishment
• Increase stitches: Make 1 purlwise (m1p) for invisible increases within purl sections
• Decrease stitches: Slip, knit, pass slipped stitch over (skpo) and knit 2 together (k2tog) for shaping

Materials and Gauge

The Queenie is knitted using Debbie Bliss Rialto DK yarn, a double-knit weight available in Ecru. Yarn requirements range from 12 balls (50g/1¾oz each) for the smallest size to 20 balls for the largest size, totaling between 600g and 1000g of yarn depending on the finished size selected.

Two sets of needles are required: 3.25mm (US 3) knitting needles for ribbed edgings and 4mm (US 6) knitting needles for the main body and cable work. A cable needle is essential for manipulating stitches during cable techniques. Additional notions include three stitch holders for managing stitches during construction, two stitch markers for tracking pattern placement, and seven buttons for the cardigan front closure.

Gauge is critical for this advanced project. Over stocking stitch using 4mm (US 6) needles, the pattern specifies 22 stitches and 30 rows to a 10cm (4-inch) square. For the cable sections worked on the same needles, gauge is 27 stitches and 30 rows to a 10cm (4-inch) square, reflecting the tighter gauge created by cable stitches. Achieving correct gauge is essential for proper fit and finished measurements.