Graves Cardigan Knitting Pattern

Graves Cardigan in Berroco Millstone Tweed

What is Being Made

The Graves Cardigan is a classic button-front cardigan sweater designed by Åsa Buchta. This intermediate-level knitting project is available in nine sizes, ranging from 38 inches to 70 inches in bust measurement, with finished lengths between 22¾ and 25¼ inches. The cardigan features a structured silhouette with approximately 4 to 8 inches of positive ease for comfortable wearing. The design showcases decorative cable panels on the back and is finished with seven 1-inch buttons for closure.

Techniques Used

This cardigan employs several intermediate knitting techniques that build essential skills. The construction begins with ribbed cuffs worked in a 1x1 rib pattern to create fitted edges. The main body is worked in Double Moss Stitch, a textured stitch pattern that provides visual interest and structure. Cable work is a prominent feature, with a 33-stitch cable panel featured on the back of the garment. The pattern utilizes chart-based instructions for both the front and back pieces, requiring knitters to read and follow visual stitch diagrams. The cardigan is constructed using the seamless method with circular needles, with pieces worked flat and then assembled. Blocking is an essential finishing step to achieve accurate gauge and measurements.

Stitches Used

• 1x1 Ribbing: Used for the initial cuff and edge ribbing to create elasticity and a fitted finish
• Double Moss Stitch: The primary stitch pattern covering the main body, creating a textured, reversible fabric
• Cable Stitch: Featured in the 33-stitch cable panel on the back, measuring 6½ inches in width when worked on larger needles
• Knit and Purl Combinations: Used throughout the pattern for shaping and stitch definition

Materials and Tools

The Graves Cardigan is designed to be knitted in Berroco Millstone Tweed, a yarn that provides durability and a classic appearance. The project requires between 10 and 18 balls of yarn (50 grams each), depending on the size selected. The sample shown uses color #11133 Olive, a versatile neutral shade.

Needle requirements include:

• 32-inch circular needles in sizes 7 (4.5 mm) and 9 (5.5 mm) for the main body
• 16-inch circular needle in size 9 (5.5 mm) for working smaller circumferences
• Double-pointed needles or preferred small-circumference needles in sizes 7 (4.5 mm) and 9 (5.5 mm) for sleeve caps and neckline
• Cable needle for managing cable stitches

Additional notions include stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats, waste yarn for holding stitches during construction, seven 1-inch buttons for the front closure, and a tapestry needle for seaming and weaving in ends.

Gauge and Finishing

Achieving proper gauge is critical for this project. The pattern specifies 16 stitches and 28 rows in Double Moss Stitch over 4 inches on the larger needles, while the cable panel should measure 6½ inches across 33 stitches. All gauge measurements are taken after blocking, which is an essential step for achieving accurate finished dimensions and proper drape. The downloadable PDF format allows knitters to access the complete pattern with detailed charts and instructions for all nine sizes.