Rowan Feather Cardigan Knitting Pattern

Rowan Feather Cardigan: Knitted Design Summary

What is Being Made

The Rowan Feather is an intermediate-level knitted cardigan designed to fit bust measurements ranging from 81-127 cm (32-50 inches). This downloadable PDF pattern from Rowan includes five size options with finished bust measurements of 111.5, 122.5, 131.5, 142.5, and 151.5 cm respectively. The cardigan features a sophisticated stitch pattern with integrated shaping at the shoulders and front closures.

Knitting Techniques Used

This cardigan employs several fundamental knitting techniques suitable for intermediate crafters. The pattern incorporates yarn overs (yfwd) and decreases that are carefully balanced to maintain pattern integrity throughout the garment. Knitters must pay particular attention to matching each decrease with its corresponding increase to preserve the lace-like quality of the design. The pattern note emphasizes that if insufficient stitches remain to work both the increase and decrease elements, the beginning and end stitches of rows should be worked in stockinette stitch instead.

The construction method uses flat knitting on straight needles for the main body pieces (back and fronts), with a circular needle recommended for managing the total stitch count. The garment is worked from the bottom up, with shoulder shaping achieved through strategic cast-offs at the beginning of rows.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

• Stockinette stitch (st st) – Used for edge stitches and foundation rows
• Purl stitch – Forms the base of alternating rows in the main pattern
• Yarn overs (yfwd) – Creates openwork elements and lace effects
• Knit two together (K2tog) – Right-leaning decrease used throughout the pattern
• Slip, knit, pass slipped stitch over (sl 1, K1, psso) – Left-leaning decrease that balances the K2tog decreases
• Knit stitch (K) – Primary stitch for creating fabric structure

The main pattern repeat combines these elements into a two-row repeat that creates a balanced, symmetrical lace pattern. The pattern requires careful attention to ensure decreases and yarn overs are properly matched throughout.

Materials: Yarn and Needles

Yarn: The cardigan is knitted using Rowan Kidsilk Haze, a luxurious yarn worked double (meaning two strands held together throughout). The pattern calls for 14-16 balls of 25-gram yarn depending on size, photographed in White 612. Working yarn double creates a more substantial fabric and contributes to the drape and structure of the finished cardigan.

Needles: The pattern requires 4mm (US 6) needles in two configurations: one pair of straight needles for flat knitting the main pieces, and one 4mm circular needle at least 120 cm long for managing larger stitch counts. The circular needle's length accommodates the full width of the garment during construction.

Tension and Sizing

The pattern specifies a tension of 26 stitches and 27 rows to 10 cm (4 inches) measured over the lace pattern using 4mm needles and yarn worked double. Achieving correct tension is essential for obtaining the proper finished measurements. The pattern includes five distinct sizes, allowing for customization based on desired bust fit.

Pattern Structure

The Rowan Feather cardigan is constructed in separate pieces: a back panel and left and right front panels. Each piece begins with a loose cast-on (with a note that larger needles may be used if necessary to prevent a tight edge). The back piece is worked to a length of 83-91 cm before shoulder shaping begins. Front pieces are worked to match the back length before their own shoulder shaping. The pattern includes detailed row-by-row instructions for shaping shoulders through graduated cast-offs, creating a properly fitted garment.