Shibui Knits Meridian Cardigan Knitting Pattern

Shibui Knits Meridian Cascading Cardigan

What is Being Made

The Meridian Cascading Cardigan is a luxury cardigan design featuring wide, cascading lapels that create an exquisite drape. This classic cardigan silhouette is elevated by the use of premium materials and refined construction techniques. The pattern offers both short sleeve and long sleeve versions, allowing knitters to customize the finished garment to their preference.

Techniques Used

The Meridian Cardigan is worked flat in pieces from the bottom up, a construction method that allows for easier adjustments and a more controlled fit. The fronts incorporate short row shaping to create the distinctive cascading lapel effect and achieve proper drape. The pattern includes ribbed selvedge edging at the center fronts, which provides a refined finish and helps maintain structure along the button band. Sleeves are set in using traditional tailored sleeve cap shaping. The pattern uses the Double Long-Tail Cast-On Method for a professional edge and the Sloped Bind-Off throughout for a polished finish. A 3-Needle Bind-Off is employed to join shoulder seams securely.

Stitches Used

The Meridian Cardigan is primarily constructed in stockinette stitch (St st), which provides a smooth, classic fabric base that allows the inherent sheen of the yarn to shine. Ribbed selvedge edging is worked at the center fronts for structural definition and a refined appearance. The pattern incorporates short rows as a shaping technique rather than traditional decreases, allowing the fabric to flow naturally at the lapels.

Materials and Tools

This cardigan is designed to be knitted with Shibui Knits Rain, a luxurious 100% cotton yarn that provides the cool, lustrous fabric quality essential to the design's elegant drape. The yarn is worked at a gauge of 19 stitches and 28 rows over 4 inches in stockinette stitch after blocking, using size 8 (5 mm) needles with a single strand of Rain.

Yardage requirements vary by size and sleeve length:

• Short Sleeve Version: 7 to 11 skeins (depending on size)
• Long Sleeve Version: 8 to 12 skeins (depending on size)

Additional tools required include a spare size 8 needle for the 3-Needle Bind-Off and a tapestry needle for finishing.

Size Range and Fit

The Meridian Cardigan is available in seven sizes ranging from XS to XXL, with finished bust circumferences from 36 inches to 52 inches. The pattern is designed to be worn with approximately 4 inches of positive ease. Back length measurements range from 22.25 to 25.25 inches, accommodating various heights and proportions. The pattern is rated as Intermediate skill level, making it suitable for knitters with foundational knowledge of shaping and garment construction.

Design Details

The Meridian Cardigan showcases a sophisticated silhouette with its signature wide, cascading lapels that create a flowing, elegant neckline. The use of Shibui Knits Rain, a premium cotton yarn with natural sheen, elevates the classic cardigan design to a luxury piece. The short row shaping technique used in the fronts creates organic movement in the fabric, allowing the lapels to drape beautifully without relying on heavy seaming or complex construction. The ribbed selvedge edging provides both functional structure and visual refinement along the center front openings.