Noro Long Ribbed Cardigan Knitting Pattern

Noro Long Ribbed Cardigan

What is Being Made

The Noro Long Ribbed Cardigan is a classic knitted cardigan designed for everyday wear. This garment features a timeless ribbed pattern throughout and is available in four sizes: Small, Medium, Large/X-Large, and XX-Large. The finished measurements range from 40 inches (101.5 cm) in bust circumference for the smallest size to 53 inches (134.5 cm) for the largest size, with lengths varying from 28 inches (71 cm) to 30 inches (76 cm) depending on the size selected. The upper arm circumference ranges from 15.25 inches (39 cm) to 19 inches (48 cm) across the size range.

Knitting Techniques Used

This cardigan is constructed using several fundamental knitting techniques that make it accessible to knitters of various skill levels, classified as an EASY project. The garment is worked bottom-up, meaning knitting begins at the lower edge and progresses toward the neckline. The cardigan is worked flat on straight needles rather than in the round, and pieces are seamed together after completion. This construction method allows for straightforward pattern work and makes it easier to achieve consistent gauge throughout the project.

Key techniques incorporated in this pattern include:

• Picking up and knitting or purling — Creating new stitches along finished edges, essential for adding the button bands and neckline finishing
• Yarn overs — Creating new stitches to add texture or shaping to the design
• Slip, slip, knit decreases — A left-leaning decrease used to shape the garment at armholes and neckline
• Slip stitches — Used to create selvage stitches along edges, which facilitate seaming pieces together neatly
• Stitch markers — Placed on the needle to help track pattern repeats and shaping points throughout the knitting process
• Working even — Continuing in the established stitch pattern without increases or decreases across sections of the garment

Stitches Used

The primary stitch pattern used in the Noro Long Ribbed Cardigan is broken rib, which alternates knit and purl stitches to create vertical lines and texture throughout the fabric. This pattern is both visually appealing and forgiving for knitters, as it creates a fabric with good drape and elasticity suitable for a fitted cardigan silhouette.

Additional stitch techniques employed include:

• Knit stitch — The fundamental stitch forming the foundation of the broken rib pattern
• Purl stitch — Alternated with knit stitches to create the ribbed texture and visual interest
• Garter stitch — Likely used for button bands and finishing edges to provide structure and prevent curling

Materials and Tools

The Noro Long Ribbed Cardigan is designed to be knitted with Noro Kiso yarn in colorway #8. The yardage requirements vary by size, ranging from 8 skeins for the Small size to 11 skeins for the XX-Large size, with each skein weighing 100 grams. This yarn choice provides the fabric with the characteristic color variation and texture that Noro yarns are known for.

The pattern calls for US size 10 (6mm) needles or the appropriate needle size needed to achieve the specified gauge. The recommended gauge is 15 stitches and 21 rows over 4 inches (10 cm) when working the broken rib pattern on US 10 needles. Achieving the correct gauge is essential for the finished cardigan to match the intended measurements and fit properly.