Rowan Breeze Cardigan Knitting Pattern

Rowan Breeze Cardigan by Lisa Richardson

What Is Being Made

Rowan Breeze is a knitted cardigan designed by Lisa Richardson, available in five size options to fit bust measurements from 81–86 cm (32–34 inches) up to 122–127 cm (48–50 inches). The finished garment features actual bust measurements ranging from 101.5 cm to 141.5 cm, offering a comfortable, relaxed fit across the range. This is a classic cardigan construction suitable for intermediate knitters.

Knitting Techniques

Rowan Breeze employs several core knitting techniques to create its structured silhouette:

• Bottom-up construction: The cardigan is worked from the lower edge upward, allowing knitters to try on the garment as it progresses and adjust length as needed.
• Worked flat: All pieces are knitted flat on straight needles rather than in the round, then seamed together at the end.
• Seamed assembly: Individual pieces (back, fronts, sleeves, and pocket components) are joined using seaming techniques to create the finished cardigan.
• Raglan armholes: The sleeves are set using raglan shaping, which features diagonal decreases that run from the underarm to the neckline, creating a distinctive sloped shoulder line.
• Pocket construction: The design includes functional pockets with separate pocket backs, worked as individual pieces and integrated into the front panels.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The pattern incorporates a stitch pattern that is worked throughout the main body and coordinated pieces. Knitters begin with pattern row 1 and follow the established pattern sequence consistently across the back, fronts, and other components. The pattern instructions specify careful attention to maintaining stitch pattern alignment, particularly during shaping sections such as raglan decreases. Decreases are worked using techniques including slip, knit two together, and pass slipped stitch over (sl 1, K2tog, psso) and knit three together (K3tog) to maintain pattern integrity while shaping the armholes.

Materials: Yarn and Needles

Rowan Breeze offers flexibility in yarn selection, with two colorway options available:

• Option 1: Island Blend (White 900) combined with Kidsilk Haze (Cream 634). Island Blend is used in quantities of 20–28 x 50gm balls depending on size, while Kidsilk Haze requires 11–16 x 25gm balls. Both yarns are held together as a single strand throughout the pattern.
• Option 2: Island Blend (White 900) paired with Cashmere Haze (Polar Night 703). This alternative uses the same Island Blend yardage (20–28 x 50gm balls) with 11–16 x 25gm balls of Cashmere Haze, again worked with both strands held together.

Needles required: The pattern calls for two needle sizes. A 4mm (US 6) needle is used for ribbing or edge work, while a 5mm (US 8) needle is used for the main fabric. The pattern specifies working with one strand each of the two selected yarns held together on the 5mm needles.

Tension

Achieving correct tension is essential for proper garment fit. The pattern provides specific tension guidance (measured over 16 stitches) to ensure that the finished cardigan matches the intended dimensions across all sizes.