Perrin Cardigan Knitting Pattern

Perrin Cardigan by Georgia Farrell

What is Being Made

Perrin is a sophisticated cardigan designed by Georgia Farrell, available in nine sizes ranging from 71-76 cm to 152-157 cm chest measurements. This garment is knitted in one piece to the armholes, creating a seamless construction that minimizes finishing work. The cardigan features a button front closure with five buttons and is designed as an advanced beginner project, making it suitable for knitters with some experience who are ready to tackle more complex stitch patterns and shaping techniques.

Techniques Used

The Perrin cardigan employs several intermediate knitting techniques that elevate it beyond basic stockinette stitch projects. Cable techniques are central to the design, with multiple cable crossings creating visual interest and texture throughout the garment. The pattern uses circular needle construction for knitting the body in the round, which is a modern approach that reduces seaming. Stitch holders are used to manage stitches during the armhole division, allowing the knitter to work sections separately before joining or binding off. The cardigan also incorporates shaping through decreases and increases to achieve proper fit at the bust and armholes, and button band construction for a professional finished edge.

Stitches Used

The primary stitch throughout the garment is stockinette stitch, which provides a smooth, classic fabric base. The design features a prominent diamond cable panel that measures 7.5 cm across 17 stitches, creating an elegant focal point. Cable stitches are achieved through specialized abbreviations including C2B (cable 2 back), C2F (cable 2 front), Cr2L (cross 2 left), and Cr2R (cross 2 right). These cable crosses are worked using a cable needle to create the twisted, three-dimensional texture characteristic of cable knit garments. The pattern maintains stitch accuracy throughout by keeping stitches correct as the pattern repeats, ensuring the cables remain properly aligned and visually balanced across the body of the cardigan.

Materials

The Perrin cardigan is knitted using Merino Soft yarn from Rowan, a luxurious fiber choice that provides softness and drape. The pattern calls for 9 to 17 balls of 50-gram yarn, depending on the size being made, with the sample photographed in the colorway Clay 011. The pattern specifies two sizes of 5mm (US 8) circular needles and 5.5mm (US 9) circular needles, each approximately 120 cm long for knitting the body, plus one pair each of these needle sizes for other sections. Additional supplies include a cable needle for managing cable crosses, stitch holders for managing stitches during armhole division, and five buttons for the front closure. The recommended tension is 14 stitches and 18 rows over 10 cm measured in stockinette stitch using the 5.5mm needles, ensuring proper garment sizing and drape.