Rhys Cardigan Knitting Pattern

Rhys Cardigan in Berroco Cambria

What is Being Made

The Rhys Cardigan is an intermediate-level knitted cardigan designed by Alison Green, featured in Berroco Book #414. This garment is available in eight sizes, with finished bust measurements ranging from 37 inches to 64 inches and lengths from 16 inches to 19 inches. The cardigan is designed with 3–6 inches of positive ease for comfortable wear.

Knitting Techniques Used

This cardigan employs several key knitting techniques to create its finished structure. The garment begins with a ribbed cuff worked on smaller needles, establishing a fitted edge before transitioning to larger needles for the main body. The pattern incorporates charted colorwork or stitch patterns that are worked in repeating sections across the back and front pieces. Stitch markers are used strategically to define pattern sections and track increases during shaping. The construction includes a moving row technique that adjusts marker placement to accommodate garment shaping, demonstrating intermediate-level pattern manipulation skills.

Stitches Used

• Stockinette Stitch (St st) – The primary stitch used for the main body fabric, creating a smooth, classic knit appearance
• Ribbing – A k3, p1 rib pattern used for the cuff and edging, providing elasticity and structure
• Charted Pattern Stitches – Specific stitch patterns worked from a chart over designated stitch counts, integrated into the body sections

Materials and Tools

Yarn: Berroco Cambria in colorway #7960 Sycamore. The pattern requires 6 to 11 hanks depending on size, with each hank weighing 50 grams.

Needles and Notions: Two sets of knitting needles are required – size 4 (3.50 mm) needles for ribbing and a 29-inch circular needle in size 4 (3.50 mm) for the main body work, plus size 6 (4.00 mm) needles for the larger gauge sections. Three stitch markers are needed to track pattern placement and shaping.

Gauge and Finishing Details

Achieving proper gauge is essential for this project. The pattern specifies 21 stitches and 28 rows over 4 inches when working in stockinette stitch and the charted pattern on the larger needles. Knitters are strongly advised to knit and measure a gauge swatch before beginning, as accurate gauge ensures the finished cardigan will meet the intended measurements and drape correctly.