Rowan Waffle Cardigan Knitting Pattern

Rowan Waffle Cardigan by Martin Storey

What is Being Made

The Rowan Waffle is a classic knitted cardigan designed by Martin Storey, available in five size options to fit bust measurements from 81–86 cm up to 122–127 cm (32–50 inches). This garment features a structured, tailored fit with a traditional button-front closure using six grey side buttons from Bedecked (model BN1979). The cardigan is constructed with a defined waistline achieved through strategic decreasing and increasing, making it a versatile layering piece suitable for various occasions.

Techniques Used

This cardigan is worked using the bottom-up construction method, meaning the back and front pieces are knitted from the cast-on edge upward before being joined together. The garment is worked flat on straight needles rather than in the round, allowing for traditional seaming to join the pieces. The design incorporates horizontal stripes created through a planned color-change sequence, with two distinct stripe patterns worked at different stages of construction. The cardigan features seamed construction, with pieces sewn together to create clean, professional seams along the sides and sleeves.

Stitches Used

The pattern employs fundamental knitting stitches to create its textured appearance. The lower edge begins with a ribbed band worked in a K2, P2 (knit 2, purl 2) rib pattern, which provides elasticity and a neat finished edge. This rib section is worked for 18 rows total before transitioning to the main body. The primary fabric is created using stockinette stitch, which produces the smooth, classic appearance characteristic of traditional cardigans. Strategic decreasing and increasing at designated intervals shapes the waistline, armholes, and shoulders, creating the cardigan's structured silhouette. The armhole shaping involves casting off stitches at the beginning of rows followed by single decreases worked at the edges over multiple rows to create a gradual, professional armhole curve.

Materials: Yarn and Needles

The Rowan Waffle cardigan is knitted using Rowan Cotton Cashmere yarn, a premium blend offering both breathability and luxury. Two colors are required: Color A (Sea Spray 219) and Color B (Dark Olive 218). Yarn quantities vary by size, ranging from 2 balls of Color A and 3 balls of Color B for the smallest size, up to 7 balls of Color A and 4 balls of Color B for the largest size, with each ball weighing 50 grams. The pattern calls for two needle sizes: 3¼mm (US 3) needles for the ribbed cuff and 4mm (US 6) needles for the main body fabric. The recommended tension is 19 stitches and 31 rows measured over 10 centimeters on 4mm needles in stockinette stitch, ensuring proper garment dimensions and drape.

Construction Details

The back piece begins with a cast-on of 86 to 126 stitches depending on size, worked in K2, P2 rib for 18 rows with strategic decreases worked into the final row. The main body is then worked in the specified stripe sequence on larger needles, with waistline shaping achieved through decreases at the beginning and end of specific rows, followed by corresponding increases to restore stitch count. The armhole is shaped by casting off stitches at the beginning of rows and then decreasing at the edges over multiple rows. Shoulder shaping involves casting off groups of stitches at the beginning of rows in a stepped pattern. The stripe sequences are carefully planned to ensure the pattern repeats align properly with the garment's shaping, creating a cohesive visual design throughout the finished cardigan.