Sesia Melody Cardigan Knitting Pattern

Sesia Melody Cardigan

What Is Being Made

The Sesia Melody Cardigan is an intermediate-level knitted cardigan designed by Joan Forgione. This garment is available in six sizes ranging from XS to 2X, with finished bust measurements from 28½ inches (72.5cm) to 46 inches (117cm). The cardigan features a fitted silhouette with approximately 0–2 inches of negative ease and lengths ranging from 18 inches (45.5cm) to 21 inches (53.5cm) depending on size. The design includes button closure and is suitable for everyday wear.

Techniques Used

This cardigan is constructed using several key knitting techniques that create visual interest and structure:

• 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 piece is created on straight needles rather than in the round, with seaming used to join sections together.
• Seamed construction: Individual pieces (front panels, back, and sleeves) are knitted separately and then seamed together to create the finished garment.
• Cable work: The pattern incorporates cable stitches as a decorative and textural element, with an 11-stitch cable panel measuring approximately ¾ inch (2cm) wide.

Stitches Used

The Melody Cardigan employs fundamental and intermediate knitting stitches to achieve its finished appearance:

• Stockinette stitch: The primary stitch used throughout most of the cardigan, creating a smooth, classic knit fabric with a V-shaped texture on the right side.
• Cable stitches: Two cable variations are featured: 2/2 LC (left cross) and 2/2 RC (right cross). These stitches are created by slipping stitches to a cable needle, working subsequent stitches, then returning to the cable needle stitches, creating twisted rope-like textures.
• Increase stitches: M1L (Make 1 left) and M1R (Make 1 right) are used to add stitches while maintaining pattern continuity and preventing visible holes.
• Decrease stitches: K2tog (knit 2 together) and ssk (slip, slip, knit) techniques are employed to shape the garment at armholes, necklines, and other fitted areas.
• Yarn overs: These create decorative eyelet or lace effects within the pattern.

Materials

The Sesia Melody Cardigan is designed to be knitted with specific materials that contribute to its drape and wearability:

• Yarn: Sesia FLORA PAILLETTES, a blend of 95% cotton and 5% polyester. This fiber composition creates a breathable, lightweight fabric suitable for layering. The yarn is supplied in balls of 0.88 ounces (25 grams) with 114 yards (105 meters) per ball. Yardage requirements range from 8 balls (approximately 912 yards) for the smallest size to 13 balls (approximately 1,482 yards) for the largest size. The recommended color is #280 natural.
• Needles: US size 5 (3.75mm) straight needles are required, though needle size may be adjusted to obtain proper gauge.
• Gauge: The pattern specifies 23 stitches and 37 rows over 4 inches (10cm) in stockinette stitch. Achieving correct gauge is essential for proper fit and finished measurements.
• Notions: Two buttons measuring ⅜ inch (10mm) in diameter are needed for the cardigan closure, along with stitch markers and a yarn needle for seaming and weaving in ends.

Pattern Details

The Melody Cardigan pattern includes comprehensive instructions with standard knitting abbreviations and special stitch definitions. The intermediate skill level indicates that knitters should be comfortable with cable work, seaming techniques, and reading pattern instructions. The pattern provides detailed gauge information and multiple size options, making it accessible for various body measurements while maintaining consistent design proportions.