Meader Coatigan Cardigan Knitting Pattern

Meader Coatigan in Berroco Hearthside

What Is Being Made

The Meader Coatigan is a sophisticated cardigan-style garment designed by Åsa Buchta. This piece combines the comfort of a cardigan with the substantial structure of a coat, making it a versatile layering option. The coatigan features button closures and is available in six different size ranges, with finished bust measurements ranging from 38½ inches (98 cm) to 72¾ inches (185 cm). The length is consistent across most sizes at approximately 30½ to 33¾ inches (77.5 to 85.5 cm), providing a classic proportioned fit that works well as an outerwear piece or structured layer.

Knitting Techniques Used

This intermediate-level knitting project employs several key techniques to achieve its polished appearance. The pattern utilizes circular needle construction, which allows for seamless knitting and even fabric development. Knitters will work with multiple circular needle sizes—32-inch needles for the main body sections, a 16-inch needle for smaller circumferences, and a 40-inch needle specifically for the buttonband application. The pattern incorporates stitch markers to track pattern repeats and shaping increases or decreases. Blocking is essential to this project, as the fabric may expand or grow slightly after blocking, requiring knitters to swatch and block before committing to their needle size. The buttonband is worked as a separate application, demonstrating intermediate finishing techniques.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The primary stitch pattern used throughout the Meader Coatigan is the Pattern Stitch (abbreviated as Pattern St in the instructions), which is worked on the larger needles. This textured stitch creates visual interest and structure appropriate for a coatigan silhouette. The gauge for this pattern is 15 stitches and 20 rows over 4 inches (10 cm) when measured in the Pattern Stitch on the larger needles after blocking. Accurate gauge is critical to this project's success, as the finished measurements depend on maintaining both stitch and row gauges precisely. The pattern also includes ribbed sections, likely for cuffs and button bands, which provide elasticity and a finished appearance to the edges.

Yarn and Materials

The Meader Coatigan is designed to be worked in Berroco Hearthside, a yarn that comes in 100-gram balls. The colorway shown in the pattern is #11003 Honey Maple, a warm, earthy tone suitable for a substantial outerwear piece. Yarn requirements vary by size, ranging from 8 balls (for the smallest size) to 15 balls (for the largest size), with most sizes requiring 11 to 14 balls. This yardage allows for a substantial, well-structured garment.

The needle requirements include size 9 (5.5 mm) and size 10½ (6.5 mm) circular needles in 32-inch, 16-inch, and 40-inch lengths, as well as a set of double-pointed needles or preferred needles for small circumferences in size 9 (5.5 mm). Additional notions include seven 1-inch (25 mm) buttons for the front closure, waste yarn for holding stitches temporarily, removable stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats, and a tapestry needle for weaving in ends and seaming if necessary.

Sizing and Fit

The pattern offers generous sizing with approximately 2 to 4 inches (5 to 10 cm) of positive ease recommended, meaning the finished garment will be slightly larger than the wearer's actual measurements for comfortable layering. The sample shown in the pattern is the 42¾-inch (108.5 cm) size. Knitters should carefully measure their swatch after blocking to ensure their needle size produces the correct gauge, as this directly impacts the final measurements of the coatigan.