Rowan Nikau Cardigan Crochet Pattern

Rowan Nikau Crochet Cardigan by Lisa Richardson

What is Being Made

The Rowan Nikau is a crocheted cardigan designed by Lisa Richardson. This garment is constructed to fit bust measurements ranging from 81–127 cm (32–50 inches), with actual finished bust measurements of 91–131 cm (36–51½ inches). The cardigan is worked in a structured, tailored style suitable for everyday wear.

Construction Method

The Nikau cardigan is worked bottom-up in a flat construction, meaning the body is crocheted in rows rather than in the round. Once the crocheted pieces are complete, they are seamed together to form the finished garment. This approach allows for precise shaping and a professional, tailored appearance.

Stitch Techniques

The primary stitch used throughout this pattern is the double crochet (dc), which forms the foundation of the fabric. The pattern employs several specialized stitch variations to create both texture and shaping:

• dc3tog (double crochet 3 together) – a decrease stitch that combines three double crochets into one stitch, used strategically for shaping the side seams
• dc2tog (double crochet 2 together) – a decrease stitch that combines two double crochets into one stitch, used in certain shaping rows
• Chain spaces (ch sp) – created by chain stitches and worked into on subsequent rows, adding openness and visual interest to the fabric

These decreases are worked at both the beginning and end of rows to create fitted side seams that taper the garment to the body.

Stitch Pattern

The cardigan features a repeating stitch pattern that is maintained throughout the garment. The pattern uses a combination of double crochets and chain spaces that repeat across each row. The decreases are integrated into this pattern sequence, meaning shaping occurs while maintaining the visual consistency of the stitch pattern. This requires careful attention to keeping "stripes and patt correct throughout," as noted in the pattern instructions.

Stripe Design

The Nikau cardigan incorporates horizontal stripes created by changing yarn colors at regular intervals. The pattern uses three distinct yarn colors that rotate in a specific sequence:

• Yarn A: Steel (color 458)
• Yarn B: Mushroom (color 454)
• Yarn C: Linen (color 460)

The stripe pattern repeats every three rows, with each color used for one row before switching to the next color. This creates a balanced, rhythmic striped effect across the body of the cardigan.

Materials and Specifications

The Nikau is designed to be worked with Rowan Summerlite DK yarn, a lightweight yarn weight suitable for creating a fabric with good drape and breathability. Yarn quantities vary by size:

• Sizes 81–102 cm bust: 8 x 50gm of Yarn A (Steel)
• Sizes 112–127 cm bust: 9–10 x 50gm of Yarn A (Steel)
• Yarn B (Mushroom): 8–9 x 50gm across all sizes
• Yarn C (Linen): 7–9 x 50gm across all sizes

The pattern is worked using a 4.00mm crochet hook (US size G6). The recommended tension is 24 stitches and 18 rows to 10 cm measured over the stitch pattern, which ensures the garment achieves the intended finished measurements and drape.

Shaping and Fit

The cardigan features shaped side seams created through strategic decreasing. The shaping sequence involves multiple decrease rows that taper the garment at the sides. The pattern uses a repeating 6-row shaping sequence that is worked multiple times, followed by additional rows without decreases to create the desired silhouette. This structured approach ensures a fitted, flattering garment that follows the body's contours.

Skill Level

This pattern is suitable for crocheters with intermediate skills, as it requires understanding of decrease stitches, maintaining stitch patterns while shaping, and managing color changes