Shibui Knits Clark Cardigan Knitting Pattern

Shibui Knits Clark Long Cardigan

What is Being Made

The Clark Long Cardigan is an architectural, modern take on a classic work cardigan. This generously shaped, long-length cardigan features distinctive lateral braid details and a shaped stand-up collar. The design offers a professional silhouette suitable for everyday wear, with finished bust circumferences ranging from 38.25 inches (XS) to 54 inches (XXL) to accommodate multiple sizing needs.

Construction and Techniques

This cardigan is worked flat and seamed, using a bottom-up construction method. The body is knit in one piece from the bottom up until the armholes, where the piece is then split to work the back and fronts separately. This approach provides structural stability and allows for precise shaping. The full-length sleeves are worked flat from the cuff up and then set in and seamed to the body, creating clean, professional finishing. A shaped stand-up collar is worked over the joined fronts and back after the body pieces are complete, adding architectural interest to the neckline.

Stitches and Stitch Details

The Clark cardigan is primarily worked in stockinette stitch (St st), which provides a smooth, classic fabric base. The pattern incorporates lateral braid details as a key design element that modernizes the traditional cardigan shape. These braids are created using slip stitches and yarn-over techniques (sl st, yo, k2tog tbl), adding textural interest and visual movement to the garment. Ribbing is used at the cuffs and hem to provide structure and prevent rolling. The 3-Needle Bind-Off technique is employed for finishing, ensuring secure and neat seams.

Yarn and Materials

The Clark cardigan is designed to be knit with Shibui Knits Nest yarn, a luxurious blend of 75% Fine Highland Wool and 25% Alpaca. This fiber combination provides warmth, softness, and a subtle sheen. The yarn is worked at a gauge of 21.25 stitches and 31 rows over 4 inches in stockinette stitch after blocking, using one strand of Nest. Yardage requirements range from 9 skeins (for smaller sizes) to 14 skeins (for the largest size XXL), with each skein containing 175 yards. The pattern shown is worked in the Abyss colorway.

Tools and Needles

This project requires US Size 5 (3.75 mm) 24-inch circular needles for the ribbed sections and US Size 6 (4 mm) 32-inch circular needles for the main body work. A spare size 6 needle is needed for the 3-Needle Bind-Off technique. Additional tools include locking stitch markers, stitch holders for managing stitches during construction, and a tapestry needle for seaming and finishing.

Skill Level and Pattern Details

The Clark cardigan is rated as an Intermediate skill level project, making it suitable for knitters with foundational knowledge who are ready to tackle more complex shaping and finishing techniques. The pattern provides seven size options (XS through XXL) with detailed finished dimensions for bust circumference and back length measurements. The model shown is 5'9" and wears a Size S with approximately 5.5 inches of ease in the bust and 14.5 inches of ease in the hip, providing guidance for fit selection. Important pattern notes indicate that Lateral Braid rows are not included in side shaping row counts, requiring careful attention during construction.