Jasper Cardigan Knitting Pattern

Jasper Cardigan in Berroco Gimlet

What Is Being Made

The Jasper Cardigan is an intermediate-level knitted cardigan designed by Alison Green. This garment is constructed as a seamless, top-down design worked primarily in one piece. The cardigan features a classic button-front closure with a collar that is picked up and worked in one piece around the front and neck edges. The design offers nine different finished bust measurements ranging from 36 inches to 68 inches, with corresponding length options from 20½ inches to 24½ inches, accommodating a wide range of sizing needs. The cardigan is shown in a size 40½ inches with 2–4 inches of positive ease recommended for a comfortable, relaxed fit.

Construction Techniques

The Jasper Cardigan employs several advanced knitting techniques that make it suitable for intermediate-level knitters. The body is worked in one continuous piece on circular needles from the bottom up to the underarms, where it is then divided to create separate sections for the back and front panels. This seamless construction method reduces finishing work and creates a polished, professional appearance. Sleeves are worked flat rather than in the round, offering flexibility in shaping and stitch pattern integration. The collar is picked up from the existing stitches around the front and neck edges and completed as a final step, ensuring a neat and well-integrated neckline. The pattern uses stitch markers to help track pattern repeats and shaping increases or decreases throughout the construction process.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The primary stitch used in the Jasper Cardigan is stockinette stitch (St st), which creates a smooth, classic fabric with a distinctive V-shaped texture on the right side. The pattern incorporates a secondary pattern stitch worked in conjunction with stockinette stitch, with specific instructions for slipping stitches and working through the back loop (k1tbl) to create textural detail. The pattern includes ribbing elements, indicated by the combination of knit and purl stitches (k1tbl and p1 sequences), which provide structure and elasticity at edges and cuffs. Stitch markers are used throughout to delineate pattern sections and aid in tracking repeats, with instructions to slip markers on specific rows. The collar features a combination of knit through the back loop and purl stitches to create a defined edge.

Materials: Yarn and Needles

The Jasper Cardigan is designed to be worked in Berroco Gimlet, a yarn produced by Berroco, Inc. The pattern requires between 11 and 21 balls of Berroco Gimlet (50 grams per ball), depending on the finished size selected. The sample shown uses color #10760 Aviation. Knitters will need circular needles in two sizes: US 9 (5.5 mm) and US 10 (6 mm), with a minimum length of 32 inches (80 cm) or longer to accommodate the full width of the body stitches. The pattern specifies that needle size should be adjusted as needed to obtain the correct gauge. Additional notions required include a tapestry needle for weaving in yarn ends and waste yarn for holding stitches during construction. Gauge is critical for this project: 14 stitches and 22 rows should measure 4 inches (10 cm) in stockinette stitch and pattern stitch on the larger needles after blocking. Knitters are strongly advised to knit a gauge swatch and block it before beginning the cardigan to ensure accurate finished measurements.