String Valerie Jacket Cardigan Knitting Pattern

String Valerie Jacket

What is Being Made

The Valerie Jacket is a sophisticated cardigan designed by Lidia Karabinech. This knitted garment features a front zipper closure and is available in four sizes: Small (Medium, Large, Extra Large). The finished bust measurements range from 34 inches (86.5 cm) for the smallest size to 46 inches (117 cm) for the largest, with length to shoulder measurements between 20½ and 22 inches (52 to 56 cm). This is a classic wardrobe piece suitable for layering and everyday wear.

Techniques Used

The Valerie Jacket is constructed using a bottom-up building method, meaning the cardigan is knitted starting from the lower edges and working upward toward the shoulders. The garment is worked flat on straight needles rather than in the round, and all pieces are seamed together after completion. This traditional construction approach allows for precise shaping and control over the fit at key areas such as the armholes, neckline, and shoulders. The pattern includes detailed shaping instructions for armhole decreases and front neck shaping to create a tailored silhouette.

Stitches Used

The primary stitch throughout the Valerie Jacket is Stockinette Stitch (St st), which creates the smooth, classic fabric that forms the main body of the cardigan. Stockinette Stitch is worked by knitting on right-side rows and purling on wrong-side rows, producing the characteristic V-pattern texture on the front of the fabric. The ribbed edging is created using 2x2 Rib, a reversible stitch pattern worked over a multiple of 4 stitches plus 2. In 2x2 Rib, knit and purl stitches alternate in groups of two (knit 2, purl 2), creating vertical columns that provide stretch and recovery. This ribbed edging is typically used at cuffs and hems to create a neat, fitted finish. The pattern also incorporates decreases such as knit 2 together (k2tog) and slip, slip, knit (ssk) to shape the armholes and neckline smoothly.

Materials

The Valerie Jacket is knitted using String DOLCETTO yarn, a premium blend of 30% cashmere and 70% merino wool. This fiber combination provides warmth, softness, and breathability. Each ball contains 1.75 ounces (50 grams) and yields 136 yards (125 meters). The pattern calls for 5 to 9 balls of color 201235 light gray (A) depending on size, and 2 to 3 balls of color 200847 rouge (B) for the ribbed edging and accents. Two needle sizes are required: US 9 (5.5mm) needles for the main fabric and US 8 (5mm) needles for the ribbed sections. The pattern specifies a gauge of 16 stitches and 24 rows over 4 inches (10 cm) in Stockinette Stitch. Additional notions include three stitch holders for securing stitches during construction, a yarn needle for weaving in ends, an 18½ to 20 inch (47 to 51 cm) long zipper for the front closure, and sewing thread with a needle for attaching the zipper securely.