Rico Design Sweater, Cardigan and Scarf Knitting Pattern

Rico Design Sweater, Cardigan and Scarf

Project Overview

This Rico Design knitting pattern features three coordinating pieces worked in Rico Fashion Modern Tweed aran yarn: a classic pullover sweater, a matching cardigan, and a complementary scarf. All three garments showcase cable knit details and are designed to be worked flat on straight needles, then seamed together for a polished, professional finish.

Sweater Details

The sweater is an easy-to-intermediate level project suitable for knitters with basic experience. It is constructed using a bottom-up construction method, meaning you begin at the lower edge and work upward toward the neckline. The garment features prominent cable stitches as a decorative element, with cable panels measuring 5.5 centimeters across. The sweater is available in five size options, with bust measurements ranging from 81–86 centimeters (32–34 inches) up to 122–127 centimeters (48–50 inches). Full length varies from 58 centimeters (22¾ inches) for the smallest size to 69 centimeters (27¼ inches) for the largest. Sleeve seams measure consistently at 46–47 centimeters (18–18½ inches) across all sizes.

Cardigan Details

The cardigan follows the same construction principles as the sweater, using bottom-up, flat-worked, and seamed techniques. It shares identical measurements and sizing with the sweater, making them true companion pieces. The cardigan is fastened with six buttons, creating a classic front closure. Like the sweater, it incorporates cable stitch patterns for visual interest and texture.

Scarf Details

The scarf is a simple, beginner-friendly project measuring 22 centimeters wide by 180 centimeters long (8½ inches by 70¾ inches). It provides an accessible introduction to the cable techniques featured in the larger garments and coordinates beautifully with both the sweater and cardigan.

Techniques and Construction Methods

Bottom-up construction is used throughout this pattern collection, meaning pieces are knitted from the cast-on edge upward. Flat knitting on straight needles creates individual pieces that are later seamed together using mattress stitch or similar joining techniques, resulting in neat, durable seams. Cable stitches are a primary design feature, created using a cable needle to cross stitches over one another, producing the characteristic twisted rope-like texture. The cable panel specifically uses a C8B cable cross, which involves slipping four stitches onto a cable needle, leaving them at the back of the work, knitting the next four stitches, then knitting the four held stitches to complete the cross.

Stitches Used

The primary stitch throughout all three projects is reverse stocking stitch, which creates a smooth, flat fabric ideal for showcasing cable work. Stocking stitch (knit on right-side rows, purl on wrong-side rows) forms the foundation, while the reverse side is displayed as the public face of the fabric. Cable stitches are worked using the techniques described above, with the 12-stitch cable panel serving as the repeating decorative motif.

Yarn and Materials

All three projects use Rico Fashion Modern Tweed aran weight yarn, available in three beautiful colorways: Shade 007 (light blue) for the sweater, Shade 006 (berry) for the cardigan, and Shade 008 (teal) for the scarf. Yarn requirements vary by size: the sweater requires 11–16 balls of 50 grams each depending on size, the cardigan requires 10–15 balls, and the scarf requires 5 balls. Aran weight yarn is a medium-weight yarn that produces fabric with good drape and durability, ideal for structured garments like cardigans and sweaters.

Needles and Notions

Two sizes of Rico knitting needles are required: 4 millimeter (UK 8 – USA 6) needles for ribbing and edge work, and 5 millimeter (UK 6 – USA 8) needles for the main fabric. A cable needle is essential for working the cable crosses. The cardigan also requires six buttons for the front closure.

Tension and Gauge

Achieving the correct tension is critical for proper garment fit. The pattern specifies a tension of