Tahki Yarns Clematis Knitting Pattern

Tahki Yarns Clematis Cardigan

What Is Being Made

The Clematis is a knitted cardigan designed by Fiona Ellis, offered in seven sizes ranging from XSmall to 3XL. This intermediate-level garment features a classic button-front closure with seven ½" buttons and is worked in a flattering silhouette with finished bust measurements from 34" to 53" and lengths from 21¾" to 27¾". The cardigan combines stockinette stitch body sections with decorative lace border patterning, making it a versatile layering piece suitable for various occasions.

Techniques Used

The Clematis cardigan is constructed using bottom-up knitting methodology, meaning the garment is built from the lower edge upward. The piece is worked flat on straight needles rather than in the round, allowing for traditional row-by-row construction. The cardigan features seamed construction, with separate pieces joined together after completion. Lace patterning is incorporated as a decorative element, specifically in the border sections that frame the garment. The combination of these techniques creates a structured, polished cardigan with refined detailing.

Stitches Used

The pattern employs several fundamental knitting stitches to achieve its design:

• Stockinette Stitch (St st) — The primary stitch used for the main body of the cardigan, creating a smooth, classic fabric with a flat appearance on the right side and bumpy texture on the wrong side. This stitch is worked at a gauge of 18½ stitches and 28 rows over 4 inches in 10 centimeters.
• Seed Stitch (Seed st) — A textured stitch pattern that alternates knit and purl stitches to create a bumpy, reversible fabric. The pattern instructions specify both even and odd stitch count variations for this stitch.
• Border Pattern — A lace pattern worked over a multiple of 6 stitches plus 1, incorporating yarn overs (yo) and slip-slip-knit decreases (ssk) to create openwork detailing. This pattern is repeated throughout the border sections and worked at a gauge of 24 stitches and 28 rows over 4 inches in 10 centimeters.
• Decreases — The pattern uses ssk (slip, slip, knit) decreases for shaping armholes and shoulders, as well as k2tog (knit two together) decreases to maintain stitch balance during shaping.

Materials

The Clematis cardigan is knitted using Tahki Yarns KIAWAH, a blend of 55% lambswool and 45% cotton. This fiber composition creates a yarn with warmth, breathability, and natural drape. The yarn is supplied in balls of 1.75 ounces (50 grams) with 128 yards (117 meters) per ball. Yardage requirements range from 9 balls for the smallest size to 14 balls for the largest size, with the color specified as #032 wisteria. Construction requires size 7 (4.5mm) needles for the main fabric and a size 7 (4.5mm) circular needle measuring 32 inches (81 centimeters) for the front neckband. Additional materials include a stitch marker for tracking pattern repeats, seven ½" (13mm) buttons for the front closure, and a yarn needle for seaming and finishing.