Ella Rae Cardigan Knitting Pattern

Ella Rae Jenning Family Cardigans

What is Being Made

The Ella Rae Jenning Family Cardigans are a collection of knitted cardigans designed for the whole family, ranging from toddler sizes (2 years) through adult sizes (XX-Large). This downloadable PDF pattern offers three distinct style versions to suit different preferences: a Round Neck Cardigan, a V-Neck Cardigan, and a Reverse Stockinette Stitch version. The cardigans feature button closures and are tailored to fit chest measurements from 20-22 inches (51-56 cm) for the smallest size up to 48-50 inches (122-127 cm) for the largest size.

Techniques Used

These cardigans are constructed using bottom-up seamed construction, meaning the pieces are knitted individually from the bottom edge upward and then sewn together. The garments are worked flat on straight needles rather than in the round, allowing for straightforward shaping and modification. The pattern includes raglan armhole shaping, which creates diagonal seams from the underarm to the neckline, providing a classic and flattering fit across all sizes. The construction method makes these cardigans accessible for knitters who prefer traditional flat knitting techniques.

Stitches Used

The Jenning Family Cardigans employ fundamental knitting stitches that create different textural effects depending on the version chosen:

• Ribbed Knit (K1, P1 Rib): Used for the cuffs, waistband, and neckline edgings. This elastic stitch is created by alternating knit and purl stitches in a regular pattern, providing stretch and a finished appearance. The ribbing is worked for 6 to 10 rows depending on size before transitioning to the main stitch pattern.
• Stockinette Stitch (St St): The primary stitch for the Round Neck Cardigan and V-Neck Cardigan versions, created by alternating knit rows on the right side with purl rows on the wrong side. This produces a smooth, classic fabric with a V-shaped texture on the front.
• Reverse Stockinette Stitch (Rev St St): Used for the reverse stockinette versions, this stitch is the inverse of stockinette, with purl bumps appearing on the right side. This creates a textured, dimensional look that adds visual interest to the finished garment.

Materials and Tools

The Jenning Family Cardigans are knitted using Ella Rae Seasons yarn, a 100-gram skein weight. The yardage requirements vary by size and version: the Round Neck and V-Neck Cardigan versions require 3 to 7 skeins depending on size, while the Reverse Stockinette versions require 2 to 6 skeins. The yarn is available in multiple colorways including shades such as Carrot Cake (for the boy version), Orange, Purple, and Yellow (for the woman version), Light Jade, Pink, and Orange (for the girl version), and Teal, Navy, and Green (for the man version).

Needles required include US 9 (5.5 mm) needles for the ribbed edgings and a US 9 (5.5 mm) circular needle, as well as US 10.5 (6.5 mm) needles for the main body fabric. The pattern specifies a gauge of 14 stitches and 18 rows to 4 inches (10 cm) measured over stockinette stitch or reverse stockinette stitch, which is essential for achieving the correct finished measurements.

Button requirements vary by style: the Round Neck Cardigan versions require 5 to 7 buttons depending on size, while the V-Neck and Reverse Stockinette versions require 4 to 6 buttons. These buttons serve as both functional closures and design elements for the cardigan front.

Pattern Structure and Sizing

The pattern accommodates eight different sizes with corresponding finished chest measurements ranging from 24 inches (61 cm) to 55½ inches (141 cm). Full length measurements vary from 13½ inches (34 cm) for the smallest size to 29¼ inches (74 cm) for the largest size, ensuring appropriate proportions across the size range. Sleeve lengths are tailored to each size, ranging from 10¼ inches (26 cm) to 20 inches (51 cm). The construction begins with ribbed edgings, followed by a transition to the main st