Paintbox Yarns Championship Cardigan Knitting Pattern

Paintbox Yarns Championship Cardigan

What Is Being Made

The Championship Cardigan is a classic knitted cardigan designed for intermediate knitters. This garment is constructed using a bottom-up method, meaning you begin knitting from the lower edge and work upward toward the shoulders. The cardigan features a button-front closure with eight buttons, each measuring 2 cm (¾ inch) in diameter, making it a practical and stylish layering piece suitable for various occasions.

Sizing and Finished Measurements

The Championship Cardigan is available in six sizes to fit bust measurements ranging from 81 cm to 107 cm (32 to 42 inches). The finished bust measurements range from 90 cm to 115 cm (35½ to 45¼ inches), providing a comfortable fit across the body. Finished length from shoulder measures between 69 cm and 74 cm (27¼ to 29¼ inches), while sleeve seam length ranges from 46 cm to 48 cm (18 to 19 inches), accommodating different arm proportions across the size range.

Techniques Used

• Bottom-up construction: The cardigan is knitted from the hem upward, allowing you to try on the garment as you progress and adjust length if needed
• Worked flat: All pieces are knitted flat on straight needles rather than in the round, then seamed together
• Seaming: Individual pieces (front panels, back, and sleeves) are joined using seaming techniques to create a finished garment
• Buttonholes: Strategic buttonhole placement allows for the eight-button front closure
• Button bands: Structured bands frame the front opening and accommodate the button closure system

Stitches and Stitch Techniques

The pattern utilizes fundamental knitting stitches including knit (K) and purl (P) stitches as the foundation. The design incorporates a stitch pattern worked over the main body pieces, measured at a tension of 21 stitches and 24 rows to 10 cm (4 inches). The pattern includes yarn round needle (yrn) techniques for creating buttonholes, as well as increase (inc) and decrease (dec) stitches for shaping the garment at strategic points. Abbreviations used throughout follow UK knitting terminology, with US equivalents provided for international knitters.

Materials Required

The Championship Cardigan is designed to be worked in Paintbox Yarns Wool Mix Aran, a worsted-weight yarn supplied in 100g balls. The pattern requires multiple colors: Champagne White (Color A) forms the main body, with 7 to 9 balls needed depending on size; Red Wine (Color B) and Racing Green (Color C) each require 1 ball for accent details. The pattern specifies 4mm (UK 8 – US 6) knitting needles for ribbed edgings and 4½mm (UK 7 – US 7) knitting needles for the main fabric. Eight buttons measuring 2 cm (¾ inch) in diameter complete the closure system.

Tension and Gauge

Achieving the correct tension is essential for this project. The pattern specifies a tension of 21 stitches and 24 rows to 10 cm (4 inches) measured over the stitch pattern using 4½mm (UK 7 – US 7) needles. Paintbox Yarns emphasizes that checking your tension before beginning is vitally important, as working to incorrect tension will result in a garment that does not fit the intended finished measurements. Tension swatches should be worked, measured, and blocked according to the yarn care instructions before commencing the cardigan.

Pattern Format and Instructions

The Championship Cardigan is provided as a downloadable PDF pattern. Instructions are written using UK knitting terminology with US equivalents provided in parentheses. Sizing information is given for the smallest size with changes for larger sizes indicated in square brackets. Where only one figure appears, it applies to all sizes. The pattern includes a comprehensive abbreviations guide and detailed yardage requirements based on average needs, though Paintbox Yarns notes that quantities are approximate and may vary based on individual gauge and knitting style.