String Jayne Wide-Stripe Cardigan Knitting Pattern

String Jayne Wide-Stripe Cardigan

What is Being Made

The String Jayne Wide-Stripe Cardigan is a kimono-style cardigan designed by Lidia Karabinech. This garment features a relaxed, flowing silhouette with a generous bust measurement of 56 to 80 inches depending on size, and a finished length of 26.5 inches. The cardigan is constructed using a distinctive wide-stripe colorway that progresses through five coordinated shades, creating a sophisticated gradient effect from dark to light tones.

Construction Method and Techniques

This cardigan employs a bottom-up knitting approach with a unique construction strategy. Rather than knitting the front and back as separate pieces, the Jayne is knit in two long panels that are later folded and seamed up the back to create the finished garment shape. This method allows for seamless stripe continuity and efficient use of yarn. The body panels are worked flat on straight needles, while the sleeve cuffs are picked up and knit in the round using a circular needle, combining both flat and in-the-round techniques. The seamed construction provides structure and definition to the kimono-style fit.

Stitches Used

The pattern utilizes two primary knit stitches:

• Stockinette Stitch — The main stitch for the body of the cardigan, created by alternating knit rows on the right side with purl rows on the wrong side. This produces the classic smooth, V-textured fabric that showcases the wide stripes beautifully.
• 2x2 Rib — Used for the cuff edgings at the wrists and hem. This stitch is created by alternating two knit stitches with two purl stitches in a repeating pattern, providing elasticity and a finished, tailored appearance. The ribbed cuffs are worked for 5 inches and bind off to create a secure edge.

Yarn and Materials

The Jayne Wide-Stripe Cardigan is designed to be knit with STRING BREEZE, a luxurious blend yarn composed of 60% cotton, 20% cashmere, and 20% silk. This fiber combination creates a garment with breathable cotton properties enhanced by the softness of cashmere and the subtle sheen of silk. The pattern calls for 3 balls each of five coordinating colors across all sizes: ebony (A), charcoal (B), pewter (C), silver (D), and pearl (E). Each ball contains 1.75 ounces of yarn with 136 yards of yardage, allowing for the wide horizontal stripes that define this design.

Needles and Tools

The cardigan is worked on size 7 (4.5mm) needles. Knitters will need one pair of straight needles for the flat body panels and a 16-inch circular needle of the same size for picking up and knitting the sleeve cuffs in the round. Additional tools include removable stitch markers to track pattern repeats and color changes, and a yarn needle for weaving in ends after blocking.

Gauge and Finishing

The pattern specifies a gauge of 18 stitches and 26 rows over 4 inches in Stockinette Stitch after blocking. Achieving the correct gauge is essential for obtaining the proper finished measurements. Once all pieces are complete, the cardigan is gently blocked to even out the stitches and set the stripe pattern, then the panels are seamed and ends are woven in for a polished, professional finish.