Rowan Khaki Cardigan Knitting Pattern

Rowan Khaki Cardigan

What is Being Made

The Rowan Khaki is an intermediate-level knitted cardigan designed to fit bust measurements ranging from 81-86 cm to 122-127 cm (32-34 inches to 48-50 inches). This garment features a classic cardigan construction with front button bands, set-in sleeves, and a shaped neckline. The finished garment actual bust measurements range from 121 cm to 161 cm (47¾ inches to 63½ inches), providing comfortable ease for everyday wear.

Techniques Used

This cardigan employs several essential knitting techniques appropriate for intermediate-level crafters. The pattern utilizes ribbed fabric construction throughout the garment, created by alternating knit and purl stitches in a regular sequence. Decreasing is used strategically to shape the front slope of the cardigan, with decreases worked at specific intervals to create a sloped neckline. Shoulder shaping is achieved through sequential cast-offs at the beginning of alternating rows, allowing the shoulders to taper gradually. The pattern also incorporates circular needle techniques for working the neckband, requiring the crafter to transition from flat needles to circular needles for seamless finishing.

Stitches Used

• Ribbing (K1, P1): The primary stitch pattern, alternating single knit and purl stitches to create vertical lines of texture. Row 1 begins with purl, knit, purl across; Row 2 reverses this sequence with knit, purl, knit.
• Knit stitch: Used in the ribbed pattern and for constructing the main fabric
• Purl stitch: Used in the ribbed pattern to create contrast and texture
• Decreases: Single decreases worked at the front opening edge to shape the front slope gradually
• Cast-off: Used to bind off stitches at shoulder shaping points and to finish edges

Materials: Yarn and Needles

The Rowan Khaki cardigan is constructed using a two-yarn combination held together throughout, creating a lightweight yet textured fabric. Yarn A is Rowan Summerlite DK in Khaki (color 461), with quantities ranging from 15 to 17 x 50gm balls depending on size. Yarn B is Rowan Kidsilk Haze in Drab (color 611), requiring 10 to 11 x 25gm balls per garment. These yarns are held together as a single strand during knitting.

The needles required include 4½mm (US 7) straight needles for casting on and working the main body pieces, 4mm (US 6) circular needles at least 140 cm long for the initial neckband work, and 4½mm (US 7) circular needles at least 140 cm long for completing the neckband. A stitch holder is also necessary for holding the center front stitches during neckband construction.

Tension and Fabric Characteristics

The pattern specifies a tension of 18 stitches and 26 rows to 10 cm (4 inches) measured over ribbed fabric when slightly stretched, using 4½mm needles with one strand each of yarns A and B held together. Achieving proper tension is essential for obtaining the correct finished measurements and ensuring the cardigan fits as designed across all size ranges.