String Sam Cardigan Knitting Pattern

String Sam Cardigan: Intermediate Knit Design

What Is Being Made

The String Sam Cardigan is an intermediate-level knitted cardigan designed by Lidia Karabinech. This garment is available in four sizes: Small, Medium, Large, and XL, with finished bust measurements ranging from 39½ inches (100.5 cm) in the smallest size to 50 inches (127 cm) in the largest. The cardigan features a consistent length to shoulder of 22 inches (56 cm) across all sizes, making it a versatile layering piece suitable for various body types.

Construction Techniques

The Sam Cardigan employs a bottom-up construction method, meaning the garment is knitted starting from the lower edge and worked upward toward the neckline. The pieces are worked flat on straight needles rather than in the round, and are subsequently seamed together to create the finished cardigan. This traditional approach allows for precise shaping and easier color work integration.

The design incorporates horizontal striping throughout the body, created by alternating between two distinct yarns without cutting the yarn between color changes. This technique maintains continuity and reduces finishing work. Additionally, the pattern utilizes German Short Rows, an advanced shaping technique that creates depth and dimension without the need for traditional yarn wraps. This method involves slipping stitches and manipulating yarn position to build short-row shaping seamlessly into the fabric.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The Sam Cardigan features several key stitch patterns:

• K2/P2 Rib: A classic knit-purl ribbing pattern used for edgings and cuffs. This reversible pattern alternates two knit stitches with two purl stitches across a multiple of four stitches plus two, creating elastic, textured edges that provide structure and recovery.
• Reverse Stockinette Stitch (Rev St st): The primary stitch for the cardigan body. This stitch reverses the traditional stockinette appearance, with purl bumps facing outward on the right side, creating a subtle textured surface. Rows alternate between purling on the right side and knitting on the wrong side.
• Striped Pattern: Horizontal stripes are worked in Reverse Stockinette Stitch, alternating between the two project yarns to create visual interest and color blocking.
• Three-Needle Bind-Off: Used to join finished pieces together while simultaneously binding off, creating a secure, professional seam that integrates seamlessly into the garment construction.

Materials and Gauge

The Sam Cardigan requires two distinct yarns, each selected for specific qualities:

• String DOLCETTO DK (Yarn A): A luxury blend of 30% cashmere and 70% merino wool, available in color 200007 almond. This yarn is supplied in 1.75-ounce (50-gram) balls with 206 yards (187 meters) per ball. Yardage requirements range from 5 balls for the smallest size to 7 balls for the largest size, providing approximately 1,030 to 1,442 yards total.
• Sesia FLORA PAILLETTES (Yarn B): A lightweight cotton blend consisting of 95% cotton and 5% polyester in color 0665 khaki. Each 0.88-ounce (25-gram) ball contains 114 yards (105 meters). This yarn requires 5 to 8 balls depending on size, totaling approximately 570 to 912 yards.

The pattern calls for US size 6 (4.0mm) needles for the main fabric and US size 5 (3.75mm) needles for ribbed edgings, allowing for proper gauge and elastic cuff definition. A 32-inch (80cm) US size 5 (3.75mm) circular needle is required for the neckband. The recommended gauge is 19 stitches and 28 rows per 4 inches (10 cm) in Reverse Stockinette Stitch using the larger needles. Achieving proper gauge is essential before beginning the project to ensure accurate finished measurements and proper fit.

Additional notions include stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats, stitch holders for managing live stitches during construction, and a yarn needle for weaving in ends and seaming pieces together.