Jourdon Cardigan Knitting Pattern

Jourdon Cardigan in Rowan Alpaca Classic

What is Being Made

The Jourdon Cardigan is a beginner-friendly knitted cardigan available in two length options: a longer version and a shorter version. This garment is designed to fit bust measurements ranging from 71-76 cm (28 inches) up to 152-157 cm (60-62 inches), making it suitable for a wide range of sizes. The cardigan features a classic construction with front, back, and sleeve pieces that are knitted separately and then assembled.

Knitting Techniques Used

This pattern employs fundamental knitting techniques appropriate for beginner-level crafters. The construction begins with ribbed edging worked in a 1x1 rib pattern, which provides stretch and structure to the garment edges. The main body is worked in a 2x2 rib pattern, creating vertical lines of texture that are both visually appealing and forgiving for newer knitters. The pattern incorporates decreasing techniques, specifically working stitches together to shape the garment and create proper fit. Shoulder shaping is achieved through strategic cast-offs at the beginning of rows, a standard method for creating fitted armholes and necklines. The cardigan uses double-stranded yarn throughout, which creates a thicker, more durable fabric while maintaining ease of working with larger needles.

Stitches Used

• Knit stitch (K): The fundamental stitch creating the primary fabric texture
• Purl stitch (P): Used in combination with knit stitches to form the 1x1 and 2x2 rib patterns
• Rib patterns: Both 1x1 rib (alternating single knit and purl stitches) and 2x2 rib (alternating pairs of knit and purl stitches) provide the textured surface
• Decrease stitch (work 2 tog): Used for shaping the garment and reducing stitch counts at strategic points
• Cast on and cast off: Foundation and finishing techniques for securing stitches

Materials and Tools

The Jourdon Cardigan is knitted using Rowan Alpaca Classic yarn, a premium fiber available in multiple colorways including Snowflake White (115) and Foliage Green (110) as shown in the pattern photography. The yarn is worked held double, meaning two strands are used simultaneously to create a thicker, warmer fabric with better drape and durability.

Needles required: The pattern calls for two sizes of needles to create the proper gauge and fabric characteristics. A 4½mm (US 7) needle is used for the initial ribbed sections, which creates a tighter, more elastic fabric ideal for cuffs and edges. The main body is worked on 5mm (US 8) needles, which allows the rib pattern to expand and creates the proper fabric weight. A 4½mm (US 7) circular needle at least 140 cm long is also required, likely for joining pieces or working the body in the round, depending on the complete pattern instructions.

Gauge and Sizing

The pattern specifies a tension of 22 stitches and 22 rows to 10 centimeters when measured over the 2x2 rib pattern using 5mm (US 8) needles with yarn held double. Achieving the correct gauge is essential for ensuring the finished cardigan matches the intended measurements. The actual bust measurements of the finished garment range from 44 inches (112 cm) in the smallest size to 76¼ inches (193.5 cm) in the largest size, providing options for various body types and fit preferences.

Pattern Structure

The Jourdon Cardigan follows a traditional cardigan construction method. The pattern includes detailed instructions for the back piece, left front, and right front sections, each with specific stitch counts and shaping instructions for different sizes. Shoulder shaping is accomplished through successive cast-offs over multiple rows, creating a sloped shoulder line that provides comfortable armhole depth. The pattern maintains correct stitch pattern alignment throughout shaping, ensuring the visual continuity of the rib pattern across all pieces.