Rowan Bo Cardigan Knitting Pattern

Rowan Bo Cardigan by Martin Storey

What is Being Made

The Rowan Bo is an intermediate-level knitted cardigan designed to fit chest measurements from 81-137 cm (32-54 inches). This garment features a classic cardigan construction with set-in raglan sleeves, front button closure, and functional patch pockets with linings. The cardigan is available in six size options to accommodate a wide range of body measurements, with finished chest measurements ranging from 96 to 146.5 cm.

Techniques Used

This cardigan employs several fundamental and intermediate knitting techniques. The construction begins with ribbed edging at the lower body and cuffs, which provides elasticity and a finished appearance. The main body is worked in stockinette stitch, a foundational technique that creates a smooth, classic fabric. The pattern incorporates raglan armhole shaping, a popular sleeve cap construction method that involves strategic decreases to create diagonal seams from the underarm to the neckline. Pocket placement and integration is another key technique, with separate pocket linings that are worked independently and then incorporated into the front pieces. The cardigan also features front slope shaping at the neckline, requiring decreases worked at specific intervals to create a flattering curved edge. Additionally, the pattern uses the special abbreviation K1 below, a textural technique that involves knitting into a stitch one row below the current working row, adding visual and tactile interest to the fabric.

Stitches Used

• Knit (K) – The fundamental stitch forming the primary fabric
• Purl (P) – Used in ribbed sections and as part of stockinette stitch construction
• Stockinette Stitch (st st) – The main stitch pattern, created by alternating knit and purl rows to produce a smooth, V-textured fabric
• Ribbing – An elastic stitch pattern worked at the lower edge and cuffs for structure and recovery
• Purl 2 Together (P2tog) – A left-leaning decrease used for shaping pocket linings and other decreases
• K1 below – A special abbreviation indicating knitting into the stitch one row below the current working row, creating textural variation

Materials and Tools

The Rowan Bo cardigan is knitted using Rowan Denim Revive yarn, a durable and versatile fiber choice. The pattern requires 14 to 22 balls of 50-gram yarn, depending on the size selected. The sample photographed features the Cream 210 colorway. Two needle sizes are required: 3¼mm (US 3) needles for the ribbed sections and 3¾mm (US 5) needles for the main stockinette stitch fabric. A 3¼mm (US 3) circular needle measuring at least 120 cm long is also needed, likely for picking up stitches around the neckline or for working the button band. The cardigan is finished with five wooden buttons measuring 2.2 cm, providing both functional closure and decorative detail.

Tension and Fit

Achieving the correct tension is essential for this project. The pattern specifies a tension of 19 stitches and 40 rows to 10 centimeters, measured over stockinette stitch using the 3¾mm (US 5) needles. Accurate tension ensures that the finished cardigan will match the intended measurements and drape correctly. The pattern provides six size options with finished chest measurements ranging from 96 to 146.5 cm, allowing knitters to select the appropriate size based on desired ease and fit.