Noro Cable-Edged-Cardi (Akita) Cardigan Knitting Pattern

Noro Cable-Edged Cardi (Akita)

What Is Being Made

The Noro Cable-Edged Cardi, also known as the Akita jacket, is a classic cardigan sweater designed for a comfortable, wearable fit. This garment features decorative cable stitch detailing along the edges, creating visual interest and texture throughout the piece. The cardigan is available in two finished sizes: 37 inches (94 centimeters) wide and 41 inches (104 centimeters) wide, with corresponding lengths of 22 inches (56 centimeters) and 24 inches (61 centimeters) respectively. Sleeve length measures 16 inches (40 centimeters) or 17 inches (43 centimeters) depending on size. The design showcases the beautiful variegated colorways of Noro Kureyon yarn, with the pattern incorporating shades #354, #352, and #188 for a rich, multicolored appearance.

Techniques Used

This cardigan is constructed using bottom-up knitting methodology, meaning the garment is worked from the lower edge upward toward the shoulders and neckline. The pieces are worked flat on straight needles rather than in the round, allowing for traditional row-by-row construction. The finished garment is seamed together, with individual pieces joined at the sides and shoulders to create the complete cardigan shape. This construction method provides excellent control over fit and allows the cable patterns to be clearly defined throughout the garment.

Stitches Used

The primary stitch used in this pattern is Stockinette stitch (abbreviated St st), which creates a smooth, classic fabric when worked flat on straight needles. Stockinette stitch is produced by knitting on the right side facing rows and purling on the wrong side facing rows, creating the characteristic V-pattern texture on the finished garment.

The signature design element of this cardigan features cable stitches, which add dimensional texture and visual complexity. Two primary cable techniques are employed throughout the pattern:

• C4B (Cable 4 Back): This stitch is executed by slipping the next 2 stitches onto a cable needle and holding it at the back of the work, knitting the next 2 stitches from the left-hand needle, then knitting the 2 stitches from the cable needle. This creates a cable that twists toward the back of the work.
• C4F (Cable 4 Front): This stitch is executed by slipping the next 2 stitches onto a cable needle and holding it at the front of the work, knitting the next 2 stitches from the left-hand needle, then knitting the 2 stitches from the cable needle. This creates a cable that twists toward the front of the work.

The cable pattern is strategically placed along the edges and throughout the body of the cardigan, with the cables separated by reverse stockinette stitch sections (purled on right side facing rows) to create definition and allow the cables to stand out prominently.

Materials

This pattern calls for Noro Kureyon yarn in the Y-987 colorway, a premium hand-dyed wool yarn known for its rich, variegated color changes. The yardage requirements are 390 grams for the smaller size and 420 grams for the larger size, providing ample yarn for the complete cardigan.

Construction requires one pair of US 10 (6 millimeter) needles, which are appropriately sized to work with the Noro Kureyon yarn and achieve the specified gauge.

The pattern specifies a tension of 16 stitches by 23 rows measured over a 4-inch (10 centimeter) square of Stockinette stitch using US 10/6mm needles. Achieving proper gauge is essential for obtaining the correct finished measurements and ensuring the cardigan fits as designed.

Pattern Structure

The cardigan is constructed in separate pieces: a back panel, two front panels, and two sleeves. The back piece is worked first, establishing the width and length of the garment. The right and left front panels are then worked, featuring the cable-edged pattern that gives this cardigan its distinctive character. The pattern includes detailed shaping at the neck and shoulders, with strategic decreases worked across multiple rows to create a refined neckline and proper shoulder fit. The seamed construction method allows for precise placement of these shaping decreases, ensuring a professional finish.