String Ada Cardigan Knitting Pattern

String Ada Cardigan

What is Being Made

The String Ada Cardigan is a knitted cardigan designed by Lidia Karabinech, available in four sizes ranging from Small to Extra Large. This garment features a classic button-front closure with three 7/8" (22mm) buttons and offers knitted measurements from 42" to 52¼" in bust circumference, with lengths ranging from 21" to 23½" depending on size selection.

Techniques Used

This cardigan is constructed using seamed, worked-flat knitting techniques, meaning the pieces are knitted individually on straight needles and then sewn together. The pattern incorporates one-row buttonhole construction for the button closures. The design demonstrates fundamental garment shaping through strategic increases and decreases to create proper fit across the bust and shoulders.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The Ada Cardigan features multiple stitch techniques throughout its construction:

• K1, P1 Rib – Used for the initial 15-row ribbed edging on the back and left front pieces, creating a stretchy, fitted border that helps the garment maintain its shape
• Lace Pattern – The main body stitch pattern worked between edge stitches on both the back and front pieces, creating an openwork design element
• K2tog (Knit 2 Together) – A right-leaning decrease used throughout the pattern for shaping
• Ssk/Ssp (Slip, Slip, Knit/Purl) – A left-leaning decrease technique for balanced shaping
• M1L/M1 (Make 1 Left) – An increase method that lifts the strand between needles to add stitches without creating visible holes

Materials and Specifications

The Ada Cardigan is worked in String DOLCETTO DK yarn, a luxurious blend of 70% merino and 30% cashmere. Yardage requirements vary by size: Size S requires 6 balls, Size M requires 7 balls, and Sizes L and XL each require 8 balls. Each ball contains 1.75oz (50g) and provides 206 yards (188 meters) of yarn.

The pattern calls for US 6 (4mm) straight needles for the main body pieces and a US 6 (4mm) circular needle measuring 32" (80cm) long for the neckband. Additional notions include stitch markers, stitch holders for holding stitches during construction, and a yarn needle for seaming and finishing.

Gauge and Construction Details

The pattern specifies a gauge of 18½ stitches and 27 rows over 4 inches (10cm) in the Lace pattern. Achieving proper gauge is essential for obtaining the correct finished measurements. The back piece begins with a cast-on of 95 to 119 stitches depending on size, while the left front piece starts with 47 to 59 stitches. Pieces are worked to specific lengths before stitches are divided and placed on holders for shoulder and neckline shaping, which are then seamed together to complete the garment.