Tahki Yarns Westcliff Cardigan Knitting Pattern

Tahki Yarns Westcliff Cardigan

Project Overview

The Westcliff Cardigan is an intermediate-level knitted cardigan designed by Teresa Chorzepa. This garment is constructed using a bottom-up, seamed approach with pieces worked flat on needles. The cardigan is available in four sizes: Small, Medium, Large, and XL, with a finished bust measurement of 39 inches (Small) to 56½ inches (XL) and a consistent length of 25½ inches.

Construction Techniques

This cardigan employs several key knitting techniques that contribute to its structured, polished appearance:

• Bottom-Up Construction: The cardigan is knit in separate pieces from the bottom edge upward, allowing for easy customization of length and a logical progression through the pattern.
• Flat Knitting: All pieces are worked flat on needles rather than in the round, making this an accessible project for knitters who prefer traditional flat construction.
• Seamed Assembly: Individual pieces are seamed together after completion, creating clean, professional-looking seams throughout the garment.
• Three-Needle Bind-Off: Shoulders are joined using the three-needle bind-off technique, which creates a secure, stretchy seam ideal for shoulder construction.
• Integrated Pockets: Pockets are knit simultaneously with the front pieces, streamlining construction and ensuring proper placement and fit.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The Westcliff Cardigan utilizes fundamental knitting stitches combined into cohesive stitch patterns:

• Cross Rib: The lower edge features a Cross Rib pattern worked over 14 rows, creating a textured, elastic ribbing that provides structure and recovery at the hem.
• Stockinette Stitch: The main body is worked in Stockinette stitch, the foundational knit stitch pattern that creates a smooth, classic fabric suitable for showcasing yarn texture.
• Decreases and Increases: The pattern incorporates specialized decrease techniques including k2togtbl (knit 2 stitches together through back loops) and k2Ctbl (knit 2 stitches crossed through back loops), as well as increase techniques such as M1k (make 1 knitwise) and M1p (make 1 purlwise). These techniques allow for shaping while maintaining the integrity of the stitch pattern.

Materials and Gauge

The Westcliff Cardigan is designed to be knit with Tahki Yarns Superwash Merino Bulky, a 100% Superwash Merino Wool yarn. The yardage requirements are 8 hanks for Small, 10 hanks for Medium, 11 hanks for Large, and 12 hanks for XL. Each hank contains 3.5 ounces (100 grams) and provides 109 yards (100 meters) of yardage.

The pattern calls for US 11 (8mm) circular needles measuring 32 inches (80cm) in length, or a size that allows you to obtain the correct gauge. A spare US 11 (8mm) needle is needed for pocket joining and the three-needle bind-off. Additional materials include a stitch holder, removable markers, and a yarn needle for finishing.

The gauge for this project is 11 stitches and 16 rows equal 4 inches (10cm) in Stockinette stitch. Achieving the correct gauge is essential for proper fit, particularly in a fitted cardigan where bust measurements are critical.

Yarn Characteristics

Tahki Yarns Superwash Merino Bulky is a premium wool yarn that combines softness with durability. The Superwash treatment allows the finished cardigan to be machine-washed, making it practical for everyday wear. The bulky weight of the yarn creates a substantial, warm fabric that works up quickly, reducing overall project time while producing a garment with excellent drape and structure. The yarn is worked in color 05 Light Grey, a versatile neutral shade suitable for layering and pairing with various outfits.