Rowan Holme Cardigan Knitting Pattern

Rowan Holme Cardigans by Lisa Richardson

What is Being Made

The Rowan Holme is a collection of five-size cardigans designed by Lisa Richardson, available in bust sizes ranging from 81-86 cm (32-34 in) through 122-127 cm (48-50 in). These are classic knitted cardigans worked from the bottom up, featuring a sophisticated stranded colorwork pattern throughout the body and sleeves.

Techniques Used

This pattern employs bottom-up construction, meaning the cardigan is knitted starting from the lower edge and progressing upward toward the shoulders. The primary decorative technique is stranded colorwork, a traditional method where two yarn colors are carried across the fabric to create intricate patterned designs. The garment is worked flat on straight needles rather than in the round, requiring seaming of side and sleeve seams after completion.

The pattern incorporates armhole shaping achieved through strategic cast-offs and decreases, and neck shaping worked by decreasing stitches at the neck edge over multiple rows. Shoulder shaping is accomplished through stepped cast-offs to create a properly fitted shoulder line. The cardigan includes optional hook and eye fastenings for closure, though these are not shown on the photographed garment.

Stitches Used

The pattern features a four-row repeat stitch pattern as the foundation. Knit stitches form the basis of the fabric, with the distinctive pattern created through alternating rows of solid knitting in each color and rows combining knit stitches with knit below stitches (a technique where the needle picks up the stitch from the row below rather than working the current row). This creates texture and visual interest while maintaining the stranded colorwork design. Standard shaping techniques including cast-offs and decreases are used throughout for armholes, neckline, and shoulders.

Materials

The Rowan Holme is designed to be knitted using Rowan Valley Tweed yarn. Two colorways are specified: Yarn A in Malham (color 101) and Yarn B in Penyghent (color 104). Yarn quantities vary by size, ranging from 3 to 5 balls of each color, with each ball weighing 50 grams.

The pattern calls for two pairs of 3mm (US 2/3) needles and 3¼mm (US 3) needles for working the various sections. The recommended tension is 19 stitches and 52 rows to 10 centimeters when measured over the stranded pattern using the 3¼mm needles, ensuring proper garment sizing and drape.