Opal Cardigan Knitting Pattern

Opal Cardigan by Quails Studio

What is Being Made

The Opal Cardigan is a classic knitted cardigan designed to fit bust measurements ranging from 71-76 cm (28-30 inches) up to 152-157 cm (60-62 inches), making it available in nine different sizes. This intermediate-level knitting project creates a structured, tailored cardigan suitable for everyday wear.

Knitting Techniques Used

This cardigan employs several fundamental knitting techniques appropriate for an intermediate skill level. The garment is constructed using stockinette stitch as the primary fabric, which creates a smooth, classic appearance. The ribbed edging uses a rib pattern worked at the cuffs, hem, and neckline to provide elasticity and a finished look. Shaping techniques are used throughout the construction, including decreases worked on specific rows to shape the front neckline and shoulders. The pattern uses slip stitch, knit, and pass slipped stitch over (Sl1, K1, psso) decreases for neckline shaping, and knit two together (K2tog) decreases for front edge shaping. The cardigan is worked in separate pieces—back, left front, and right front—which are later assembled.

Stitches Used

• Stockinette Stitch (st st): The main fabric stitch, created by alternating knit rows on the right side with purl rows on the wrong side, forming the smooth, classic cardigan body
• Rib Pattern: A knit-purl combination (K2, P1 repeat) used for all edgings to create elasticity and a professional finish
• Knit Stitch (K): The foundational stitch used throughout
• Purl Stitch (P): Used in combination with knit stitches for ribbed sections
• Knit Two Together (K2tog): A right-leaning decrease used for front edge shaping
• Slip, Knit, Pass Slipped Stitch Over (Sl1, K1, psso): A left-leaning decrease used for neckline shaping
• Cast On and Cast Off: Essential techniques for beginning and finishing the garment pieces

Materials and Tools

The Opal Cardigan is knitted using Rowan Softyak DK yarn, a double knitting weight yarn held double throughout the project for added warmth and structure. Two yarn colors are required: Yarn A in Driftwood (244 grams needed) and Yarn B in Cream (230 grams needed). The color blocking created by alternating these two yarns adds visual interest to the finished cardigan.

Two pairs of needles are required for this project: 5mm (US 8) needles for the ribbed sections and 6mm (US 10) needles for the main stockinette stitch fabric. The pattern specifies working with yarn held double throughout, which affects needle sizing and tension. Additional notions include stitch holders for holding stitches during construction and stitch markers to help track pattern repeats and shaping points.

Tension and Fit

The pattern specifies a tension of 16 stitches and 22 rows to 10 centimeters measured over stockinette stitch using 6mm needles with yarn held double. Achieving correct tension is essential for proper fit across the nine available sizes. The garment features a structured fit with deliberate shaping at the front neckline and shoulders, with decreases worked on specific rows to create a flattering silhouette.