Rowan Dereham Cardigan Knitting Pattern

Rowan Dereham Cardigan by Amy Herzog

What is Being Made

Dereham is a knitted cardigan designed by Amy Herzog for Rowan. This garment is a classic button-front cardigan available in five sizes to fit bust measurements from 81–86 cm (32–34 in) through 122–127 cm (48–50 in). The cardigan features a structured silhouette with shaping at the armholes and shoulders, making it a versatile layering piece suitable for various occasions.

Construction Method

The Dereham cardigan is worked flat on straight needles and constructed bottom-up, meaning knitting begins at the lower edge and progresses upward toward the shoulders and neckline. The finished pieces are seamed together, creating clean, professional-looking seams along the sides and sleeves. This construction approach allows for precise shaping and control over fit throughout the garment.

Stitch Techniques and Patterning

The primary stitch pattern features cables, which are a signature element of this design. The cable pattern is worked over 8 rows and uses two main cable crosses:

• C4B (Cable 4 Back): Slip 2 stitches onto a cable needle and hold at the back of the work, knit 2 stitches from the left needle, then knit the 2 stitches from the cable needle
• C4F (Cable 4 Front): Slip 2 stitches onto a cable needle and hold at the front of the work, knit 2 stitches from the left needle, then knit the 2 stitches from the cable needle

The 8-row cable repeat alternates the direction of the cable crosses, creating a dynamic, textured surface. Between cable rows, the pattern incorporates stockinette stitch (knit on right-side rows, purl on wrong-side rows), which provides contrast and allows the cables to stand out prominently. The pattern is worked symmetrically across the back and front pieces, with edge stitches maintaining selvage continuity.

Shaping and Fit Details

The cardigan includes strategic increases worked into the lower body to create a flattering shape. Armhole shaping is achieved through a combination of cast-off stitches at the beginning of rows and decreases worked at each end of subsequent rows, creating a smooth, fitted armhole cap. Shoulder shaping is accomplished through stepped cast-offs, and the back neck is shaped to accommodate a comfortable neckline opening for the button band.

Materials and Tools

The Dereham cardigan is knitted using Rowan Wool Cotton yarn, a blend that combines the warmth and elasticity of wool with the breathability and drape of cotton. The pattern requires 12, 13, 14, 15, or 17 balls of 50-gram yarn depending on size (photographed in the colorway Moss Gray 990). Knitting is worked on 4mm (US 6) needles, including a pair of straight needles and a 4mm circular needle at least 100 cm long. A cable needle is essential for manipulating the cable stitches. The finished cardigan is fastened with 7 buttons (BN1337 from Bedecked).

Gauge and Tension

Achieving the correct gauge is critical for proper fit. The pattern specifies a gauge of 22 stitches and 30 rows to 10 cm measured over stockinette stitch, and 30 stitches and 30 rows to 10 cm measured over the cable pattern, both using 4mm (US 6) needles. The difference in stitch count between the two gauges reflects the density created by the cable crossings.