Mavka Cardigan Knitting Pattern

Mavka Cardigan in Berroco Renew

What is Being Made

The Mavka Cardigan version 2 is a sophisticated hooded cardigan designed for experienced knitters. This seamless garment features decorative cable panels on the front and back, inset pockets, and raglan shaping worked from the top down. The cardigan is available in nine sizes ranging from 36¼ inches to 67½ inches bust circumference (92 cm to 172 cm), with finished lengths ranging from 24¼ inches to 30¼ inches (61.5 cm to 77 cm), depending on size selection. The design includes a hood and is finished with six 5/8-inch buttons.

Construction Technique

This cardigan employs a top-down seamless construction method, which allows knitters to try on the garment as it progresses and adjust length as needed. The sweater begins at the hood and works downward with raglan shaping that creates smooth, fitted armholes without the need for seaming. The sleeves are worked in the round using double-pointed needles or preferred small circumference needles, while the body is worked flat on a circular needle. The inclusion of inset pockets adds functional detail to the design, and the cable panels are strategically placed on the front and back for visual interest.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The Mavka Cardigan features stockinette stitch as the primary fabric, which creates a smooth, classic knit surface. Cable panels are a signature element of this design: the front cable panels consist of 24 stitches and measure 3½ inches (9 cm) wide, while the back cable panel uses 40 stitches and measures 6¼ inches (16 cm) wide. These cable panels add textural depth and visual sophistication to the garment. The pattern requires careful gauge measurement, with the recommended gauge being 19 stitches and 28 rows equaling 4 inches (10 cm) in stockinette stitch after blocking.

Materials: Yarn and Needles

Yarn: The Mavka Cardigan is designed to be worked in Berroco Renew, a sustainable yarn option. The yardage requirements vary by size, ranging from 11 to 22 balls of 50-gram weight (approximately 550 to 1100 yards total, depending on size). The sample shown in the pattern is knit in color #1340 Tortoise.

Needles and Notions: Knitters will need a 32-inch circular needle in size 7 (4.5 mm) for working the body, along with one set of double-pointed needles or preferred small circumference needles in the same size for working the sleeves. Additional notions include stitch markers to track pattern repeats and shaping, waste yarn for holding stitches during construction, a cable needle for working the cable panels, a tapestry needle for weaving in ends and seaming, and six 5/8-inch buttons for closure.

Skill Level and Recommendations

This pattern is rated for experienced knitters and requires solid foundational skills in cable knitting, seamless construction, and raglan shaping. The designer, Alison Green, recommends approximately 2 to 4 inches (5 to 10 cm) of positive ease for a comfortable fit. Knitters are strongly advised to knit a gauge swatch and block it before beginning, as accurate gauge is essential for proper fit and finished measurements. The pattern notes that gauge should be measured after blocking to ensure precision.