String Madeline Cardigan Knitting Pattern

String Madeline Cardigan

What is Being Made

The Madeline Cardigan is an intermediate-level knitted cardigan designed by Lidia Karabinech. This garment is constructed as a button-front cardigan with a classic silhouette, available in four sizes ranging from Small to Extra Large. The cardigan features a bust measurement of 36 (40, 43½, 47½) inches and a length to shoulder of 25 inches, making it a versatile layering piece suitable for various occasions.

Construction Techniques

The Madeline Cardigan is worked using a bottom-up seamed construction, meaning the pieces are knitted individually from the lower edge upward and then joined together with seams. The garment is worked flat on straight needles rather than in the round, allowing for traditional shaping techniques and straightforward stitch pattern management. This method is characteristic of classic cardigan construction and provides excellent control over fit and shaping throughout the project.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The Madeline Cardigan employs several fundamental knitting stitches to create its structure and visual interest:

• Stockinette Stitch (St st) – The primary stitch used for the body of the cardigan. Stockinette stitch is created by knitting on right-side rows and purling on wrong-side rows, producing the classic smooth, V-textured fabric that is both elegant and versatile.
• K1, P1 Ribbing – Used for edge details and cuffs. This reversible rib pattern alternates knit and purl stitches to create vertical columns that provide stretch and recovery, ideal for fitted edges.
• I-cord Edge – Applied to the front opening for a refined, durable finish that prevents rolling and adds a polished detail to the cardigan front.
• Specialty Increases and Decreases – The pattern includes techniques such as double increase (DInc), knit 2 together (K2tog), and make 1 (M1) for shaping the armholes and shoulders with precision.

Shaping Details

The cardigan features structured shaping to create a well-fitted garment. Armhole shaping is achieved by binding off stitches at the beginning of rows, followed by decreases worked on right-side rows to create a gradual taper. Shoulder shaping uses a step-bind-off method, binding off groups of stitches across multiple rows to create angled shoulders that sit properly on the body. The back neck stitches are placed on a holder for later finishing.

Materials and Yarn

The Madeline Cardigan is designed to showcase the luxurious qualities of String Capri Bulky, a 100% cashmere yarn. The yardage requirements range from 11 to 15 balls depending on size, with each ball containing 1.75 ounces (50 grams) and 150 yards (137 meters) of yarn. The cardigan shown in the pattern is knitted in color 200007 dune, a neutral tone that complements the rich texture of cashmere. This premium yarn choice elevates the cardigan to a luxury garment suitable for special occasions or as an investment piece.

Needles and Gauge

The Madeline Cardigan is worked on US 10½ (6.5 mm) needles, or the size needed to obtain the correct gauge. The pattern specifies a gauge of 13 stitches and 17 rows over 4 inches (10 centimeters) in Stockinette Stitch, blocked. Achieving the correct gauge is essential for proper fit, as cashmere yarn can vary in elasticity and drape. The pattern emphasizes checking gauge before beginning the project to ensure the finished cardigan meets the intended measurements.

Finishing Elements

The cardigan is completed with five buttons and a yarn needle for seaming and weaving in ends. Stitch markers and stitch holders are used throughout construction to track pattern placement and hold stitches during shaping. The finished garment is blocked to set the stitches and achieve the precise measurements specified in the pattern.