Rowan Repton Cardigan Knitting Pattern

Rowan Repton Cardigan by Lisa Richardson

What is Being Made

The Rowan Repton is a knitted cardigan designed by Lisa Richardson, available in five sizes to fit bust measurements from 81-86 cm (32-34 in) up to 122-127 cm (48-50 in). The finished garment features actual bust measurements ranging from 112 cm (44 in) to 154 cm (60½ in), offering a comfortable fit across multiple size ranges. This is a classic cardigan construction suitable for intermediate knitters.

Techniques Used

The Repton cardigan is constructed using a bottom-up, seamed, and worked-flat approach, which is a traditional method for cardigan construction. The garment is worked in separate pieces—including the back, left front, and right front sections—before being assembled together. This technique allows knitters to work on straight needles and provides flexibility in fitting adjustments during the construction process. The cardigan features raglan armhole shaping, a distinctive design element that creates diagonal seams from the underarm to the neckline, offering a comfortable and flattering fit.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The Repton features a 2x2 ribbed pattern that forms the foundation of the design. The ribbing pattern is established over four rows using alternating knit and purl stitches in a two-stitch repeat, creating vertical texture and elasticity throughout the garment. The pattern instructions specify maintaining this stitch pattern correctly throughout shaping sequences, including during front slope decreases and raglan armhole shaping, demonstrating how the ribbed texture is preserved as the garment is constructed.

Materials and Needles

The Repton is designed to be knitted with Rowan Felted Tweed yarn, with yarn requirements ranging from 9 to 13 x 50-gram balls depending on the size being made. The photographed sample is shown in the colorway Delft 194. The pattern requires two pairs of straight needles: 3¼mm (US 3) needles for the ribbed cuff sections and 4mm (US 6) needles for the main body of the cardigan. Additionally, a 3¼mm (US 3) circular needle at least 120 cm long is needed, likely for finishing details such as neckband or button band construction. The pattern specifies a tension of 21 stitches and 34 rows to 10 cm when measured over the pattern using 4mm (US 6) needles, which is essential for achieving the correct finished measurements.

Closure and Finishing

The cardigan is fastened with six buttons (BN1979 from Bedecked), indicating a traditional button-front closure typical of classic cardigan designs.