Rapier Cardigan Knitting Pattern

Rapier Cardigan by Martin Storey

What is Being Made

The Rapier is an intermediate-level cardigan pattern designed to fit chest measurements ranging from 71-76 cm (28-30 inches) up to 152-157 cm (60-62 inches), with nine size options available. The finished garment features actual chest measurements from 107 cm (42¼ inches) to 189 cm (74½ inches), allowing for comfortable ease across the sizing range.

Construction and Techniques

This cardigan is constructed using fundamental knitting techniques suitable for knitters with intermediate experience. The pattern involves shaping shoulders through strategic cast-off rows that gradually reduce stitches, creating a fitted shoulder line. Back neck shaping is incorporated to provide proper neckline depth and fit, with decreases worked at the neck edge while simultaneously managing shoulder cast-offs. The pattern requires working each side of the neck separately to achieve symmetrical shaping on both sides of the garment.

The left front section begins with a ribbed cuff worked in a two-by-two rib pattern (K2, P2 repeat) that establishes the foundation for the garment. The rib transitions into the main body, with stitch pattern changes incorporated into the front edge detail, featuring a combination of knit and purl stitches worked through the back loop to create textural interest.

Stitches Used

• Knit stitch (K) – the fundamental stitch forming the base fabric
• Purl stitch (P) – used in ribbed sections and textured patterning
• Knit through back loop (K tbl) – creates a twisted stitch variation on the front edge for decorative detail
• Two-by-two ribbing (K2, P2) – provides elasticity and structure at the cuff
• Cast-off stitches – used extensively for shoulder shaping and neck edge finishing
• Decreases – worked at the neck edge to shape the neckline

Patterned and Textured Sections

The cardigan incorporates two distinct stitch patterns: a patterned stocking stitch and a textured patterned stitch. The patterned stocking stitch is worked at a tension of 25 stitches and 25 rows over 10 centimeters, while the textured pattern achieves a looser gauge of 20 stitches and 29 rows over 10 centimeters. Both patterns are worked using the larger needles, creating subtle visual and textural variation throughout the garment.

Materials Required

Yarn: The Rapier is designed to be knitted in Rowan Fine Tweed Haze, a 50-gram yarn available in three colorways for this pattern. Yarn quantities vary by size, ranging from 4 to 8 balls depending on the size selected. The three color options are:

• Mist 007 (Color A) – the primary color option
• Ash 008 (Color B) – an alternative neutral shade
• Lawn 005 (Color C) – used for the ribbed cuff sections and as a contrasting detail

Needles: The pattern requires two pairs of needles in different sizes to create the proper gauge and fabric characteristics. A pair of 3¼mm needles (UK size 10, US size 3) is used for the ribbed cuff and initial rows, which creates a tighter, more elastic fabric. A pair of 4mm needles (UK size 8, US size 6) is used for the main body sections, allowing the patterned and textured stitches to develop at their intended gauge and drape.

Pattern Complexity and Skill Development

As an intermediate-level pattern, the Rapier provides knitters with experience in fundamental techniques an opportunity to develop skills in garment construction, including managing multiple stitch patterns, executing shoulder and neck shaping, and working with color changes. The pattern's multiple size options and detailed shaping instructions make it suitable for knitters seeking to create a well-fitted, professionally finished cardigan.