Shibui Knits Plath Cardigan Knitting Pattern

Shibui Knits Plath Boxy Cardigan

What is Being Made

The Plath is a cropped boxy cardigan designed as a signature wardrobe piece. This tailored garment features fine details and a structured silhouette that adds grace and character to any outfit. The cardigan is available in seven sizes ranging from XS to XXL, with finished bust circumferences from 38.5" to 54.5", making it accessible for a wide range of body types.

Techniques Used

Plath is worked flat from the bottom up using a seamed construction method. This approach allows for precise shaping and tailored finishing throughout the garment. The pattern incorporates several advanced techniques including short row shaping at the armholes to create a refined fit, I-Cord edging for polished finishing, and a 3-Needle Bind-Off for secure seaming. The neckline stitches are strategically picked up and worked in the round to create a professional collar casing and foldover collar detail. Notably, the body features an absence of shaping until the armhole short rows, contributing to the boxy silhouette that defines this design.

Stitches Used

• Stockinette Stitch (St st): Forms the primary fabric of the main body
• 2 x 1 Rib: Used for the waistband and collar casing, providing structure and elasticity
• I-Cord Edging: Applied for refined edge finishing throughout the cardigan
• Short Rows: Employed at the armholes to shape the shoulders and create a tailored fit

Materials and Tools

This pattern calls for a two-yarn combination held together throughout construction. Shibui Knits Echo (52% Silk Noil, 48% Fine Merino, 160 yards per 40 grams) is paired with Shibui Knits Cima (70% Superbaby Alpaca, 30% Fine Merino, 328 yards per 50 grams). The main body requires 7 to 10 skeins of Echo and 3 to 4 skeins of Cima depending on size, with one strand of each held together. The neckline collar uses 2 strands of Cima for the casing and transitions to 1 strand of Echo for the foldover collar, creating subtle variation in the finished collar texture.

Knitting needles required include Size 5 (3.75 mm) and Size 6 (4 mm) circular needles, each 32 inches or longer. Additional tools include stitch markers, stitch holders, a spare Size 6 needle for the 3-Needle Bind-Off, a tapestry needle for weaving in ends, a sewing needle with matching thread, and a ½" Nickel & Black Hook & Eye fastener for closure.

Gauge and Sizing

The pattern is worked to a gauge of 18 stitches and 28 rows over 4 inches in Stockinette Stitch after blocking, achieved using Size 6 needles with one strand of Cima and one strand of Echo held together. The cardigan is designed to fit bust sizes from 32.5" (XS) to 48.5" (XXL), with finished dimensions providing approximately 5.5" of positive ease for a comfortable, boxy fit. Back length measurements range from 18.75" to 20.5" depending on size, with the model shown at 5'9" wearing Size S.

Skill Level

This pattern is rated as Experienced, reflecting the advanced techniques required including working with multiple strands held together, executing short row shaping, picking up stitches for the neckline, and managing seamed construction throughout the garment.