Phoebe Cardigan Knitting Pattern

Phoebe Cardigan in Berroco Corsica

What Is Being Made

The Phoebe Cardigan is an intermediate-level knitted cardigan designed by Amy Christoffers. This garment features a classic button-front closure with six 1" buttons and includes set-in pockets for functional style. The cardigan is available in eight sizes, ranging from 32" to 60" finished bust measurements, with finished back lengths varying from 25½" to 28" depending on size. The design incorporates 2–4" of ease, allowing for comfortable layering and movement.

Techniques Used

This cardigan employs several key knitting techniques appropriate for intermediate-level crafters. The garment begins with ribbed edging worked on smaller needles to create a fitted, elastic finish at the hem and cuffs. The main body transitions to stockinette stitch on larger needles for a smooth, classic appearance. Strategic decreases are worked at regular intervals to shape the garment, with decreases occurring every 10 rows to create a fitted silhouette. The pattern includes set-in armholes, which require careful shaping and stitch management. A front band is worked separately in one piece and then sewn to the front and neck edges, a technique that ensures clean, professional finishing. The cardigan also features side slits marked at specific points during construction.

Stitches Used

• Ribbing (K1, P1): Used for the initial 4" of the back piece and likely throughout cuffs and hems to create elasticity and a fitted edge
• Stockinette Stitch (St st): The primary stitch for the body, creating a smooth, flat fabric with a distinctive V-pattern on the right side
• Knit 2 Together (k2tog): A right-leaning decrease used for shaping
• Slip, Slip, Knit (SSK): A left-leaning decrease used for balanced shaping on both sides of the garment

Materials: Yarn, Needles, and Notions

Yarn: Berroco Corsica in colorway #3647 Fargo. The yarn comes in 50-gram balls, and the pattern requires 7 to 14 balls depending on the finished size selected (7 balls for the smallest 32" size up to 14 balls for the largest 60" size).

Needles: The pattern calls for straight needles in two sizes. Size 4 (3.50 mm) needles are used for the ribbed sections, while size 6 (4.00 mm) needles are used for the main body in stockinette stitch. Knitters should verify their gauge and adjust needle size as needed to achieve the required tension.

Notions and Gauge: Additional materials include 3 stitch holders for managing stitches during construction, 2 stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats and shaping points, and six 1" buttons for the front closure. The pattern specifies a gauge of 21 stitches and 26 rows over 4" when worked in stockinette stitch with the larger needles. Checking gauge before beginning is strongly recommended to ensure proper fit and finished measurements.

Pattern Notes

The Phoebe Cardigan is part of Berroco's collection and was published in Booklet #388. The pattern is designed to work best with Berroco Corsica yarn as specified, though crafters may substitute similar-weight yarns with careful gauge checking. The front band construction method—working it separately and then seaming it to the front and neck edges—is a hallmark technique that allows for precise shaping and a professional appearance. The inclusion of set-in pockets adds both visual interest and practical functionality to this versatile layering piece.