Rowan Quebec Cardigan Knitting Pattern

Rowan Quebec Cardigan by Lisa Richardson

What is Being Made

The Quebec is a sophisticated cardigan designed by Lisa Richardson, available in five sizes to fit bust measurements from 81-86 cm through 122-127 cm (32-50 inches). This garment combines a seamless construction approach with striking colorwork and textural interest, making it a versatile layering piece suitable for various occasions.

Construction Techniques

The Quebec cardigan is worked flat on straight needles rather than in the round, allowing for traditional seaming methods. The pattern employs a seamless construction methodology in its design approach, with distinct panel sections that are knitted separately and then assembled. The cardigan features a lower back panel and coordinating side and lower front panels, each with their own specific stitch patterns and construction sequences.

Stitch Techniques and Patterns

This design showcases multiple stitch pattern sections working in harmony:

• Main Pattern: A 4-row repeat that forms the foundation of the back panel, maintaining consistent texture throughout the lower body section
• Side Panel Pattern: A more complex 4-row repeat incorporating slip stitches worked with yarn positioned at back (wyab) and yarn at front (wyaf), creating a sophisticated slipped-stitch texture. This pattern uses combinations such as K5 alternating with slip stitch sequences (sl 1 wyab, sl 1 wyaf, sl 1 wyab)
• Stripe Sequence: A 12-row color rotation cycling through four distinct yarn colors (A, B, C, D), with rows 5-6 in yarn B, rows 7-8 in yarn C, rows 9-10 in yarn D, and rows 11-12 in yarn B
• Border Pattern: A separate stitch pattern measured at 20 stitches and 40 rows to 10 cm, providing definition to the cardigan edges

Yarn and Materials

The Quebec cardigan is designed using Rowan Felted Tweed, a premium yarn choice that provides excellent stitch definition for the intricate colorwork and slip-stitch patterns. The pattern requires four coordinating colors from this yarn line:

• Yarn A - Rage 150: 3-4 x 50gm balls depending on size
• Yarn B - Bilberry 151: 4-6 x 50gm balls depending on size
• Yarn C - Ginger 154: 4-6 x 50gm balls depending on size
• Yarn D - Watery 152: 4-6 x 50gm balls depending on size

Needles and Tools

Construction requires 4mm (US 6) needles (UK size 8) for the main knitting work. The pattern also specifies a 3.50mm (US E4) crochet hook for finishing details such as edging or seaming assistance. The tension specifications are precise: 24 stitches and 47 rows to 10 cm over the main pattern, 25 stitches and 47 rows to 10 cm over the side panel pattern, and 20 stitches and 40 rows to 10 cm over the border pattern.

Design Details

The lower back panel measures between 57-61 cm in length depending on size, with the center back marked between the center two stitches for reference during assembly. The side and lower front panels are constructed as mirror pairs, each beginning with 133-173 cast-on stitches depending on size. The integration of slip-stitch techniques with the four-color stripe sequence creates a sophisticated, modern aesthetic while the structured panel construction ensures excellent fit and drape.