Pamplona Cardigan Knitting Pattern

Pamplona Cardigan in Berroco Mykonos Stonewash

What Is Being Made

The Pamplona Cardigan is a sophisticated knitted cardigan designed by Amy Christoffers. This intermediate-level project features a classic button-front construction with a modern color-blocking approach. The cardigan is available in six sizes, with finished bust measurements ranging from 38 inches to 58 inches and lengths from 24 inches to 26 inches, making it suitable for various body types and personal style preferences.

Construction Technique

The Pamplona Cardigan employs a distinctive construction method that sets it apart from typical cardigan patterns. The fronts are worked flat from the lower edges upward and then joined at the shoulders to create the back piece. This approach allows for seamless integration of the front and back sections. Once the body is complete, sleeves are picked up from the armholes and worked downward to the cuffs, creating a unified and professional finish. This technique provides excellent shaping control and ensures proper fit throughout the garment.

Stitches and Pattern Details

The cardigan features a two-row repeating Pattern Stitch that creates visual texture and interest throughout the garment. The stitch pattern is worked as follows:

• Row 1 (Right Side): Knit all stitches
• Row 2: Knit one stitch, then repeat the following across: with yarn in front, slip two stitches; with yarn in back, slip the same two stitches back to the left-hand needle and knit them. End with a knit stitch.

This Pattern Stitch is worked on a multiple of two stitches, making it adaptable to various stitch counts. The pattern creates a subtle textured surface that adds depth and sophistication to the finished cardigan while remaining accessible for intermediate knitters.

Color Blocking and Yarn Specifications

The Pamplona Cardigan showcases a striking three-color design using Berroco Mykonos Stonewash, a premium yarn choice that adds luxury and visual appeal to the finished garment. The color-blocking is strategically applied in horizontal sections:

• Midnight (#8595): Used for the lower section of the fronts, cast on and worked for the first 9 inches. Quantity ranges from 3 to 5 balls depending on size.
• Storm (#8593): Applied for the middle section, worked from the 9-inch mark to the 16-inch mark. Quantity ranges from 2 to 4 balls depending on size.
• Dusk (#8594): Used for the upper section from the 16-inch mark to the top of the cardigan. Quantity ranges from 4 to 6 balls depending on size.

The Berroco Mykonos Stonewash yarn is a 50-gram ball weight, providing excellent stitch definition and a refined appearance. The stonewash finish of this yarn adds a subtle, sophisticated texture that enhances the overall aesthetic of the color-blocking design.

Tools and Gauge Requirements

The Pamplona Cardigan requires a 29-inch circular needle in size 5 (3.75 mm) or the size necessary to obtain proper gauge. Circular needles are used even for flat knitting in this pattern, providing flexibility and comfort during extended knitting sessions. Waste yarn or a spare needle is needed to hold stitches during construction, particularly when joining fronts to the back at the shoulders.

The pattern gauge is 24 stitches and 28 rows equal 4 inches in the Pattern Stitch. Achieving accurate gauge is essential for proper fit and finished measurements, and knitters are strongly advised to knit and measure a gauge swatch before beginning the project.

Skill Level and Pattern Characteristics

Rated as an intermediate-level project, the Pamplona Cardigan is suitable for knitters with foundational skills who are ready to tackle more complex construction techniques. The pattern involves color changes, the Pattern Stitch repeat, and the distinctive front-to-back construction method. These elements combine to create a rewarding project that builds knitting confidence while producing a wearable, professional-quality garment.