Gabrielle Cardigan Knitting Pattern

Gabrielle Cardigan in Berroco Vellina

What Is Being Made

The Gabrielle Cardigan is an intermediate-level knitted cardigan designed by Åsa Buchta. This garment is a versatile layering piece available in ten sizes, ranging from 34 inches to 70 inches in bust measurement when worn open. The cardigan features a modern construction method and is designed to be worn with positive ease for a comfortable, relaxed fit.

Finished Measurements and Sizing

The Gabrielle Cardigan is offered in sizes 1 through 10, with finished bust measurements (measured across the back width and doubled) ranging from 34 inches to 70 inches (86.5 to 178 centimeters). The cardigan includes a 1-inch front gap. Length measurements vary from 20¾ inches to 24¼ inches (52.5 to 61.5 centimeters) depending on size. The pattern recommends approximately 4 to 8 inches of positive ease for an optimal fit.

Knitting Techniques and Construction

The Gabrielle Cardigan employs a bottom-up construction method, meaning knitting begins at the lower edge and progresses upward. The cardigan is worked in one continuous piece initially, then strategically divided at the underarms to create separate sections for the back and front panels. This approach streamlines the construction process and minimizes seaming.

Shoulder shaping is accomplished using short rows, a technique that creates gradual increases in length across the shoulder area without adding bulk. This method produces a more refined shoulder line and improved fit. Once the body is complete, stitches are picked up along the armhole edges to create the sleeves, which are then worked downward in rounds. The collar extends from the front edges and is joined to complete the neckline.

Stitches Used

The primary stitch pattern used in the Gabrielle Cardigan is stockinette stitch (St st), the most fundamental and versatile knit stitch pattern. Stockinette stitch creates a smooth, classic fabric with a distinctive V-pattern appearance on the right side, making it an ideal choice for showcasing the qualities of the yarn and allowing the garment's silhouette to take center stage.

Materials: Yarn and Needles

The Gabrielle Cardigan is designed to be knitted using Berroco Vellina yarn. Yardage requirements range from 4 to 8 balls of Berroco Vellina (100 grams per ball) depending on the size selected, with the sample shown in size 3 requiring 5 balls in the colorway #5004 Beach Day.

The pattern calls for circular needles measuring 32 inches (80 centimeters) in sizes 5 (3.75 millimeters) and 7 (4.5 millimeters). The smaller needles are used for ribbed sections and edgings, while the larger needles are used for the main body fabric. Additionally, one set each of double-pointed needles or preferred small-circumference needles in sizes 5 and 7 are required for working the sleeves in rounds. A spare needle in size 7 (4.5 millimeters) is needed for the three-needle bind-off technique used to join shoulders.

Gauge and Blocking

The pattern specifies a gauge of 20 stitches and 28 rows equaling 4 inches (10 centimeters) in stockinette stitch on the larger needles. This gauge is measured after blocking, making it essential to block your gauge swatch to ensure accurate finished measurements. Taking time to check gauge before beginning the project will save time and ensure the cardigan fits as intended.

Additional Notions

Beyond yarn and needles, the Gabrielle Cardigan pattern requires waste yarn for holding stitches and a tapestry needle for weaving in ends and joining sections as needed.