Lang PTO31-03 Cardigan Knitting Pattern

Lang PTO31-03 Cardigan – Knitted Bottom-Up Design

What Is Being Made

The Lang PTO31-03 is a classic cardigan knitted from the bottom up in a seamed, flat construction. This garment is available in two size ranges: S–M and L–XL, with finished bust measurements of 49½" (126 cm) and 54¼" (138 cm) respectively. The cardigan features a length of 21¼" (54 cm) and includes structured armhole and shoulder shaping for a tailored fit. The design showcases a textured reverse stockinette stitch as the primary fabric, complemented by ribbed edgings that provide structure and elasticity at the cuffs, hem, and neckline.

Knitting Techniques Used

Bottom-Up Construction: The cardigan is worked from the hem upward, beginning with the front and back panels knitted separately before being seamed together. This method allows for straightforward shaping and fitting adjustments as you progress.

Flat Knitting: All pieces are worked flat on straight needles rather than in the round, making this an accessible project for knitters who prefer traditional flat-panel construction. Seaming occurs after all pieces are completed.

Seamed Assembly: Individual front panels, back panel, and sleeves are knitted separately and then joined using seaming techniques. This approach creates clean, professional-looking seams and allows for precise placement of shaping elements.

Shaping Techniques: The pattern incorporates increases using make-one (M1) stitches to expand the fabric width after the ribbed cuff, and decreases using purl two together (p2tog) for neck shaping. Shoulder shaping is achieved through strategic bind-offs at the beginning of right-side rows, creating a structured shoulder line.

Stitches Used

• Ribbed Stitch (Rib St): A 1×1 rib pattern worked on smaller needles (US 15 / 10mm) in two strands of yarn. The ribbing alternates knit and purl stitches to create vertical columns that provide elasticity and recovery. This stitch appears at the cuffs, hem, and neckline edges, typically measuring 1¼" (3 cm) in depth.
• Reverse Stockinette Stitch: The primary fabric stitch worked on larger needles (US 17 / 12mm). Reverse stockinette creates a textured, bumpy surface by working purl stitches on the right side and knit stitches on the wrong side, producing a distinctive aesthetic that showcases the yarn's qualities.
• Make-One (M1) Increases: Used to add stitches evenly across an increase row, creating new stitches from the running thread between existing stitches without leaving visible holes.
• Purl Two Together (p2tog) Decreases: Applied during neck shaping to reduce stitch count while maintaining the reverse stockinette texture.
• Bind-Off: Used to secure stitches and finish edges, particularly at the shoulder where multiple bind-off rows create the shoulder slope.

Materials and Tools

Yarn: LANGYARNS CLOUD, an extra-fine merino wool blend (mulesing-free) with nylon content for durability. The pattern requires 400 g (4 balls) for sizes S–M or 500 g (5 balls) for sizes L–XL in colorway bright 1077.0004. The yarn is worked with two strands held together for the ribbed sections, creating a thicker, more elastic fabric at the edges.

Needles and Tools: ADDI knitting needles in two sizes—US 15 (10mm) for ribbing and smaller-gauge sections, and US 17 (12mm) for the main reverse stockinette fabric. A short circular needle in US 15 (10mm) is also specified, likely for managing stitches during assembly or for any sections requiring circular needle techniques.

Construction Notes: The pattern provides detailed schematic measurements in metric centimeters, with specific armhole placement markers and row counts to guide shaping. The seamed construction method requires careful attention to gauge and finished measurements to ensure proper fit across the bust and length.