String Bella Cardigan Knitting Pattern

String Bella Cardigan

What is Being Made

The String Bella Cardigan is a knitted cardigan designed by Lidia Karabinech, available in sizes S (M, L, XL) with finished bust measurements of 35 (39, 43, 47) inches and a length to shoulder of 23 inches. This is a classic cardigan construction worked in a timeless style suitable for layering and everyday wear.

Construction Method and Techniques

The Bella Cardigan is constructed using a bottom-up seamed approach, with all pieces worked flat on straight needles rather than in the round. This traditional method allows knitters to complete individual garment pieces—front panels, back, and sleeves—before joining them together with seams. The bottom-up construction means you begin at the lower edge of each piece and work upward toward the shoulders and neckline.

The pattern incorporates German Short Rows as a special technique. This advanced shaping method creates gradual increases in length without the traditional wrapped stitches, instead using a double stitch (DS) technique where yarn is lifted over the needle to create both legs of the stitch on the needle. This method produces smooth, invisible shaping transitions and is particularly useful for creating curved necklines and shoulder shaping with minimal visible texture interruption.

Stitches Used

• Stockinette Stitch (St st) — The primary stitch throughout the cardigan body, created by knitting all stitches on right-side rows and purling all stitches on wrong-side rows. This creates the classic smooth, V-textured fabric that is the foundation of most traditional cardigans.
• 1x1 Rib — Used for the ribbed edging, created by alternating knit and purl stitches across each row. Ribbing provides elasticity and a finished, tailored appearance at cuffs, hems, and necklines.
• Double Stitch (DS) — Part of the German Short Rows technique, this creates a reinforced stitch used at turning points to prevent holes and gaps in the fabric.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The Bella Cardigan is designed to be knitted with String BLOSSOM yarn, a luxury blend of 50% cashmere and 50% silk. Each ball weighs 1.75 ounces (50 grams) and contains 177 yards (162 meters) of yardage. The pattern calls for 7 (7, 8, 9) balls depending on size, providing approximately 1,239 to 1,593 yards of yarn for the complete cardigan. The sample shown is worked in color 309445 sky, a sophisticated neutral shade.

The cashmere and silk blend creates a fabric with exceptional softness, breathability, and subtle sheen. Cashmere provides warmth and luxurious hand-feel, while silk adds drape, luster, and temperature regulation, making this an ideal yarn for a cardigan that transitions across seasons.

Needles and Notions

• US 6 (4mm) needles — Used as the main needles for working the body of the cardigan in Stockinette Stitch
• US 5 (3.75mm) needles — Smaller needles used for ribbed edgings to create a tighter, more elastic fabric that frames the cardigan
• Stitch holders (6) — Used to hold stitches temporarily during neck and shoulder shaping
• Stitch markers — Used to mark pattern repeats and shaping points throughout the construction
• Yarn needle — Used for seaming pieces together and weaving in ends

Gauge

The pattern specifies a gauge of 20 stitches and 28 rows over 4 inches (10 centimeters) when worked in Stockinette Stitch on US 6 (4mm) needles. Checking gauge before beginning is essential to ensure the finished cardigan matches the intended measurements. Gauge can be affected by individual tension, yarn characteristics, and needle material, so most knitters swatch before committing to the full project.

Design Details

The cardigan features a structured front with ribbed edging worked in 1x1 Rib for 5 rows, providing a polished, tailored finish. The main body transitions to Stockinette Stitch for a clean, classic appearance. Shaping is achieved through German Short Rows, which create