Freer Cardigan Knitting Pattern

Freer Cardigan in Berroco Quinoa

What Is Being Made

The Freer Cardigan is an intermediate-level knitted cardigan designed by Alison Green. This garment is a classic button-front cardigan available in eight sizes, ranging from 33" to 61" finished bust measurements, with lengths from 22" to 26" depending on size selection. The cardigan is designed with approximately 1–2" of ease for a comfortable, relaxed fit.

Construction Method

The Freer Cardigan uses an efficient one-piece construction technique. The body is worked flat from the bottom edge up to the armholes in a single continuous piece. The sleeves are then worked in the round to the underarm, after which they are joined with the body to create the yoke. This construction method minimizes seaming and creates a seamless integration between body and sleeves.

Stitches and Stitch Techniques

The pattern employs several fundamental knitting stitches and techniques:

• Stockinette Stitch (St st) — forms the primary fabric of the cardigan
• Garter Stitch — created by knitting every row, used for the initial edging (3 rows)
• Charted Pattern — a 14-row repeat chart is worked twice (28 rows total) at the lower body, adding textural or colorwork interest to the design
• Stitch Markers — used to denote pattern sections and shaping points throughout construction
• In-the-Round Knitting — employed for sleeve caps and yoke shaping using double-pointed needles

Materials: Yarn and Needles

Yarn: Berroco Quinoa, a worsted-weight yarn, is the specified fiber for this project. The cardigan requires 5 to 11 balls (50 grams each) depending on size, for a total of 250 to 550 grams of yarn. The sample shown was knitted in color #1003 Mushroom, a neutral tone suitable for versatile styling.

Needles and Notions: The pattern calls for a 29" circular needle in size 7 (4.50 mm), used for working the body flat. One set of double-pointed needles (dpns) in the same size 7 (4.50 mm) is required for working sleeves in the round. Additional notions include four stitch markers for tracking pattern sections and shaping, one stitch holder for managing stitches, and one ¾" button for closure.

Gauge and Fit Considerations

The pattern specifies a gauge of 20 stitches and 28 rows over 4 inches in Stockinette Stitch. Achieving proper gauge is essential for obtaining the correct finished measurements and fit. The pattern notes emphasize checking gauge before beginning to avoid sizing discrepancies. The garment is designed with minimal ease (1–2"), making accurate size selection important for the intended fit.

Skill Level

Rated as Intermediate, the Freer Cardigan is suitable for knitters with foundational skills who are ready to tackle multi-piece construction, in-the-round techniques, and chart reading. The one-piece body construction and yoke shaping provide moderate complexity without requiring advanced techniques.