Slate Cardigan Knitting Pattern

Slate Cardigan in Rowan Merino Aria

What Is Being Made

The Slate Cardigan is a women's button-front cardigan designed by Georgia Farrell. This intermediate-level knitting project is available in nine sizes, ranging from 71-76 cm (28-30 inches) to 152-157 cm (60-62 inches) bust measurements, with finished garment bust measurements from 87 cm to 170 cm. The cardigan features front neck shaping, set-in sleeves, and a structured silhouette suitable for layering or wearing as a standalone piece.

Knitting Techniques Used

This pattern employs several essential knitting techniques appropriate for intermediate crafters. The garment begins with a garter stitch foundation worked over 10 rows, providing a stable edge. The main body and sleeves are constructed using a 26-row repeating stitch pattern worked from a chart, requiring attention to pattern placement and consistency across pieces. Shaping techniques include strategic decreases at the neck edge worked over multiple rows and alternate rows, as well as bind-off shaping at the shoulders to create proper garment structure. The pattern also incorporates slip stitches for collar preparation, with stitches held on holders for later finishing.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

• Garter Stitch: Used for the initial 10-row foundation on the back and sleeves, creating a textured, reversible fabric
• Chart Pattern: A 26-row repeating stitch pattern forms the main body of the cardigan, worked consistently throughout the back, fronts, and sleeves
• Decreases: Single-stitch decreases worked at neck edges and alternate rows for shaping the front neckline
• Bind-offs: Multiple bind-off sequences at the shoulder create graduated shaping for proper sleeve cap fit
• Slip Stitches: Used to secure stitches on holders for the collar construction

Materials: Yarn and Needles

Yarn: This cardigan is knitted in Rowan Merino Aria, a 50-gram yarn. The pattern requires 11 to 22 balls depending on size selection (11 balls for the smallest size, 22 balls for the largest). The photographed sample is worked in the Ash 043 colorway, showcasing the yarn's subtle tonal qualities in a neutral slate shade.

Needles: The pattern calls for two pairs of needles in different sizes. A 6½mm (UK size 3, US 10/10½) needle is used for the initial garter stitch sections, while a 7mm (UK size 2, US 10½) needle is used for the main patterned sections. The larger needle size accommodates the stitch pattern while maintaining proper fabric density.

Tension and Gauge

Achieving the correct tension is essential for this project. The pattern specifies 14 stitches and 23 rows over 10 centimeters when measured over the stitch pattern using 7mm (US 10½) needles. Knitters should swatch before beginning to ensure their finished garment matches the intended measurements and drape.