Rowan Madras Cardigan Knitting Pattern

Rowan Madras Cardigan by Sarah Hatton

What is Being Made

The Rowan Madras is a knitted cardigan designed by Sarah Hatton, available in five sizes to fit bust measurements ranging from 81-86 cm (32-34 inches) up to 122-127 cm (48-50 inches). The finished garment features actual bust measurements of 90, 100, 110, 120, and 130 cm respectively. This is a classic cardigan construction suitable for various skill levels.

Construction Techniques

The Madras cardigan is constructed using bottom-up knitting methodology, meaning the pieces are worked from the lower edges upward. The garment is worked flat on straight needles rather than in the round, and all pieces are seamed together after completion. This traditional approach allows for precise shaping and a professional finish.

The pattern involves several shaping techniques including armhole decreases worked at each end of rows over multiple rows and alternate rows, back neck shaping with graduated decreases, and shoulder shaping with cast-off sections. The front pieces feature a slip-stitch technique for neatening edges before seaming.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The primary fabric is worked in stockinette stitch (st st), which creates a smooth, classic knitted surface. The cardigan features a decorative textured stitch pattern at the lower edge, established over four rows: the pattern alternates knit and purl stitches in a specific sequence (K1, P1 ribbing combined with K3, P1 sections) to create visual interest and definition at the hem and front bands.

The ribbed edging uses a K1, P1 ribbing technique on the smaller needles to create elasticity and a neat finish on the cast-on edge. This ribbing is worked for multiple rows before transitioning to the main stitch pattern and stockinette stitch body.

Materials and Needles

The Madras cardigan is knitted using Cotton Cashmere yarn by Rowan, a blend offering both breathability and luxury softness. The pattern requires 7 to 10 balls of 50-gram yarn depending on size, with the photographed sample shown in the colorway Silver Lining 224.

Two sizes of needles are required: 3¼mm (US 3) needles for the ribbed edges and initial cast-on, and 4mm (US 6) needles for the main body fabric. The pattern specifies a tension of 20 stitches and 28 rows to 10 centimeters measured over stockinette stitch using the 4mm needles, which is essential for achieving the correct finished measurements.

Pattern Structure

The cardigan is constructed in separate pieces: a back panel, two front panels, and sleeves. The back is cast on with 109 to 149 stitches depending on size and worked upward with armhole shaping, back neck shaping to create the neckline opening, and shoulder shaping. The left front begins with 62 to 82 stitches and includes the decorative stitch pattern at the hem before transitioning to stockinette stitch for the body, with corresponding armhole and neck shaping to match the back piece.

Armhole depth measures between 18.5 and 24.5 centimeters depending on size, providing comfortable coverage. The pattern includes detailed row-by-row instructions for all shaping, with stitch counts provided at each stage to ensure accuracy.