Sesia Darlene Cardigan Knitting Pattern

Sesia Darlene Cardigan

What Is Being Made

The Sesia Darlene Cardigan is a knitted cardigan designed by Irina Poludnenko. This garment is a classic button-front cardigan available in five sizes ranging from Small to 2XL, with finished bust measurements from 41 inches (104cm) to 57 inches (145cm) and a length of approximately 25½ to 27½ inches (65 to 70cm). The cardigan features a sophisticated striped colorwork pattern created with four coordinating colors of yarn.

Techniques Used

The Darlene Cardigan is constructed using several key knitting techniques:

• Bottom-up construction: The cardigan is knitted from the bottom edge upward, allowing for easy length adjustments and a traditional building method.
• Worked flat: The pieces are knitted flat on straight needles rather than in the round, creating separate front, back, and sleeve pieces.
• Seamed assembly: Individual pieces are sewn together using a yarn needle to create the finished garment.
• Striped colorwork: The pattern incorporates horizontal stripes using four different yarn colors to create visual interest and depth.
• Shoulder and neck shaping: Strategic decreases are worked at the shoulders and neck edges to create proper fit and garment structure.

Stitches Used

The Darlene Cardigan employs fundamental knitting stitches suitable for an easy-level project:

• Double Seed Stitch: The primary stitch pattern used throughout the cardigan body, creating a textured, reversible fabric with visual interest.
• Broken Rib: Used as an edge treatment, combining knit and purl stitches in an alternating pattern.
• Decreases: K2tog (knit 2 together) and Ssk (slip, slip, knit) are used for shaping at shoulders and neck edges.
• Increases: M1L (make 1 left) technique is employed where increases are required in the pattern.
• Bind-off: Standard bind-off technique secures stitches at edges and completes the garment.

Materials

The Sesia Darlene Cardigan is constructed using Sesia NEW JERSEY yarn, a premium yarn composed of 100% virgin merino wool. Each ball contains 1.75 ounces (50 grams) and provides 89 yards (82 meters) of yardage. The pattern requires four coordinating colors:

• 6 to 8 balls of color #1621 tan heather (A), depending on size
• 3 to 5 balls of color #0051 pearly white (B)
• 3 to 4 balls of color #0665 titanium (C)
• 3 to 4 balls of color #0466 dark ruby (D)

The recommended needle size is US 8 (5mm), though knitters should select the size that allows them to achieve the specified gauge of 15 stitches and 21 rows over 4 inches (10cm) in Double Seed Stitch. Additional supplies include a stitch holder, stitch markers, and a yarn needle for seaming.

Pattern Details and Gauge

Achieving proper gauge is essential for this project. The pattern specifies a gauge of 15 stitches and 21 rows equals 4 inches (10cm) when worked in Double Seed Stitch and Broken Rib. Knitters are advised to take time to check gauge before beginning to ensure the finished garment meets the intended measurements. The pattern is rated as EASY, making it suitable for knitters with basic skills who are comfortable with simple stitch patterns and basic shaping techniques.