Against the Gradient Cardigan - Free Knitting Pattern

Against the Gradient Cardigan - Free Knitting Pattern

What is Being Made

The Against the Gradient Cardigan is an intermediate-level knitted cardigan designed to fit chest sizes ranging from 32-34 inches (81-86 cm) up to 56-58 inches (142-147 cm). This garment features a gradient colorway that creates visual interest through the use of Paintbox Yarns Ombré Aran Wool Touch yarn in the Deep Sea Blues colorway, making it an ideal project for knitters seeking to showcase color transitions in a classic cardigan silhouette.

Techniques Used

This intermediate knitting project employs fundamental knitting techniques suitable for crafters with some experience. The pattern utilizes standard shaping methods including increases and decreases to construct the cardigan's body and sleeves. Knitters will work with stitch markers to track pattern repeats and shaping points throughout the project. The construction follows a traditional approach with separate pieces that are subsequently seamed together using a large sewing needle.

Stitches Used

The primary stitch structure used in this cardigan is stockinette stitch (also called stocking stitch in UK terminology), which creates a smooth, classic fabric surface ideal for displaying the gradient yarn's color variations. The pattern incorporates standard decreasing techniques including k2tog (knit 2 stitches together) and ssk (slip 2 stitches knitwise, then knit the 2 slipped stitches together) for shaping. Pattern repeats are clearly marked using square bracket notation, allowing knitters to work sections systematically across all sizes.

Materials and Specifications

This cardigan requires Paintbox Yarns Ombré Aran Wool Touch yarn in the Deep Sea Blues colorway. Yarn quantities vary by size, ranging from 6 balls for the smallest sizes (32-34 inch chest) to 9 balls for the largest sizes (52-58 inch chest), with each ball weighing 3½oz/100g. Knitters will need two sets of knitting needles: US 9 (5.5mm) needles for the main fabric and US 8 (5mm) needles for ribbed edgings. Additional supplies include 2 stitch markers, scissors, and a large sewing needle for seaming. The recommended gauge is 16 stitches and 22 rows over 4 inches (10 cm) of stockinette stitch using US 9 (5.5mm) needles, which is essential to achieve the correct finished measurements across all size options.

Pattern Notes

• Instructions are written using US knitting terminology with UK terminology provided in italics throughout
• Pattern instructions are given for the smallest size with size variations noted in round brackets for larger sizes
• Where only one figure appears, it applies to all sizes
• A figure of 0 indicates that no stitches, rows, or repeats are worked for that particular size
• Yarn quantities provided are approximate and based on average requirements
• Paintbox Yarns recommends using only the specified yarn to ensure the finished cardigan meets intended specifications
• This pattern is for personal use and gifting only; commercial production is not permitted