Noro Coat (Akita) Cardigan Knitting Pattern

Noro Coat (Akita) - Knitted Cardigan

What is Being Made

The Noro Coat (Akita) is a one-size knitted cardigan designed for a finished width of 43 inches (109 centimeters) and total length of 29 inches (74 centimeters), with sleeves measuring 14 inches (36 centimeters) in length. This garment features a sophisticated construction with a structured silhouette and professional finishing details including button closures.

Construction Method and Techniques

This cardigan is constructed using a bottom-up, worked-flat approach, meaning the pieces are knitted from the lower edges upward and assembled through seaming. The pattern employs cable knit techniques as a primary design element, creating textured visual interest throughout the garment. The use of seaming to join pieces ensures a polished, tailored appearance. The lower back section is worked by picking up stitches evenly along the colored markers, demonstrating the precision required for professional garment construction.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The primary stitch used throughout this garment is Stockinette stitch, which creates a smooth, classic fabric suitable for showcasing the yarn's color variations. Cable stitches are incorporated as a signature design feature, with specific cable techniques detailed in the abbreviations: C12B (slip next 6 stitches onto a cable needle and hold at back of work, knit next 6 stitches from left hand needle then knit 6 stitches from cable needle) and C12F (slip next 6 stitches onto a cable needle and hold at front of work, knit next 6 stitches from left hand needle then knit 6 stitches from cable needle). These 12-stitch cable crosses create dimensional texture. The pattern also incorporates ribbed edging, worked as alternating knit and purl stitches (k1, p1 rib) to provide structure and elasticity at openings.

Materials and Tools

This project requires 600 grams of Noro Silk Garden Solo yarn, a premium blend that provides the luxurious drape and color variations characteristic of Noro products. Two needle sizes are essential: US 6 (4 millimeter) needles and US 7 (4.5 millimeter) needles, allowing for tension variation between different sections of the garment. The pattern calls for 6 buttons for closure, and a cable needle is required for executing the cable stitches.

Gauge and Sizing

The tension is established at 17 stitches by 24 rows equaling a 4-inch (10-centimeter) square when measured over Stockinette stitch using US 7 (4.5 millimeter) needles. Maintaining this gauge is critical for achieving the intended finished measurements and proper garment fit.

Pattern Construction Details

The lower back section begins by picking up 93 stitches evenly between colored markers using US 7 needles, then increases gradually (1 stitch at each end on row 9 and every following 12th row) until reaching 103 stitches. The upper back section similarly picks up 93 stitches on the opposite side of the cable panel and increases more frequently (1 stitch at each end on the next row and every following 4th row) until 109 stitches are on the needle. Shoulder shaping is accomplished through strategic cast-offs, with 6 stitches cast off to begin the shoulder decrease sequence. The ribbed edging provides a professional finish, worked over 10 rows after the main body construction is complete.