Laureate Cardigan Knitting Pattern

Laureate Cardigan in Juniper Moon Findley Dappled

What Is Being Made

The Laureate cardigan is a shapely, seamlessly knitted cardigan designed by Caroline Fryar. This garment features elbow-length sleeves and is available in seven sizes ranging from XS to 3X, with finished bust measurements from 31 inches (78.5 cm) to 49 inches (124.5 cm). The cardigan is designed to be worn with 0 to 1 inch of positive ease for a comfortable, close-fitting silhouette. Total length ranges from 20½ inches (52 cm) in smaller sizes to 23½ inches (59.5 cm) in larger sizes.

Construction and Techniques

This cardigan is knit seamlessly from the bottom up, eliminating the need for seaming. The construction incorporates several sophisticated design elements that enhance both fit and aesthetic appeal. Underarm gussets are integrated into the design to provide improved mobility and comfort in the sleeve area. The garment features a welted hem at the base, created using a reversible textured pattern that alternates between stockinette stitch and reverse stockinette stitch.

The neckline is finished with a collar, and the front closure features plackets that are picked up and knitted in after the main body is complete. To facilitate the picking-up process, the pattern instructs knitters to slip the first stitch of every row. The cardigan closes with 10 to 11 buttons (depending on size), each measuring 3/8 inch (10 mm) in diameter.

A distinctive design feature is the leafy lace pattern that runs horizontally across the back and extends to both front panels. This lace motif adds visual interest and a refined, botanical element to the garment.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

Stockinette stitch (St st) forms the primary fabric of the cardigan, providing a smooth, classic knit surface. The welted pattern used for the hem is a 6-row repeat that alternates between three rows of stockinette stitch and three rows of reverse stockinette stitch, creating a subtle ribbed texture.

The pattern also employs short rows using the wrap and turn (w&t) method, a technique used to add shaping without increasing or decreasing stitches. This method involves wrapping the yarn around a slipped stitch before turning the work, which prevents holes and creates smooth transitions in shaping. The pattern includes specific instructions for wrapping both knit and purl stitches.

Additional finishing techniques include a sewn bind-off, which uses a tapestry needle and yarn to bind off stitches in a way that creates a flexible, professional-looking edge.

Yarn and Needles

The Laureate cardigan is knitted using Juniper Moon Farm Findley Dappled yarn in color #08 Woodland. The yardage required is 2 balls for sizes XS through XL, and 3 balls for sizes 2X and 3X, allowing for the larger dimensions of these sizes.

The pattern calls for US 4 (3.5 mm) circular needles in a 32-inch (80 cm) length for working the main body of the cardigan. A shorter 16-inch (40 cm) circular needle or double-pointed needles in the same size are used for working smaller circumferences, such as the sleeves and neckline. Knitters are advised to adjust needle size if necessary to obtain the correct gauge.

Additional supplies include stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats and shaping points, waste yarn for holding stitches temporarily, and a tapestry needle for weaving in ends and executing the sewn bind-off technique.

Gauge

The pattern specifies a gauge of 22 stitches and 34 rows over 4 inches (10 cm) in stockinette stitch, after blocking. Achieving the correct gauge is essential for obtaining the intended finished measurements and fit of the cardigan.