Taro Cardigan in Rowan Creative Linen, Fine Lace & Kidsilk Haze

Taro Cardigan in Rowan Creative Linen, Fine Lace & Kidsilk Haze

What is Being Made

The Taro Cardigan is a knitted cardigan designed by Lisa Richardson, available in five size options to fit bust measurements from 81–127 cm (32–50 inches). The finished garment features an actual bust measurement ranging from 121–161 cm (47¾–63½ inches) depending on size selection. This intermediate-level knitting project combines multiple yarn weights and textures to create a sophisticated layering piece suitable for various occasions.

Knitting Techniques Used

This cardigan employs several intermediate knitting techniques that add visual interest and texture to the finished garment. The pattern incorporates double knitting, a technique that creates a reversible, double-layered fabric with distinct color patterns on each side. The pattern also features make one (MK) increases, which are used strategically throughout the stitch pattern to create shaping and decorative elements. Shoulder shaping is achieved through progressive cast-off sequences, while neck shaping involves both cast-off stitches and decreases worked simultaneously to create a refined neckline. The construction method uses separate front and back pieces that are shaped individually before assembly.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The Taro Cardigan features a 20-row repeating pattern that forms the foundation of the design. This patterned section alternates between knit rows and purl rows, with strategic increases created using make one stitches. The pattern reads: rows utilizing yarn C include double purl rows followed by knit rows with increases spaced at regular intervals (K3, MK repeats), while rows utilizing yarn A are worked entirely in knit stitch. This combination of knit and purl stitches, worked across multiple yarn colors, creates a textured fabric with visual depth. The pattern is maintained consistently across the back and front pieces, with shaping accomplished by working cast-offs and decreases while keeping the established stitch pattern correct.

Materials: Yarns

The Taro Cardigan uses three distinct Rowan yarns in a carefully coordinated color palette:

• Creative Linen – Available in two colorways: Lin Apple (629) for the sweater version or Lin Foggy (624) for the cardigan version. This yarn is used in quantities of 2–3 x 100gm depending on size.
• Fine Lace – Supplied in Lace Cameo (920) for the sweater or Lace Cobweb (922) for the cardigan. Quantities range from 3–4 x 50gm based on garment size.
• Kidsilk Haze – Featured in KSH Branch (689) for the sweater version or KSH Shadow (653) for the cardigan version. This yarn is used in 6–8 x 25gm quantities depending on size selection.

The combination of these three yarns—a linen-based yarn for structure, a fine lace-weight yarn for drape, and a mohair-blend kidsilk yarn for softness—creates a sophisticated fabric with excellent wearability and a refined aesthetic.

Materials: Needles and Tools

The pattern requires 4½mm (US 7) needles as the primary needles for working the main fabric of the cardigan. For cardigan construction only, a 4mm (US 6) circular needle measuring at least 140 cm in length is needed, likely for working the button bands, front edges, or neckband in the round. The use of circular needles for edge finishing allows for seamless integration of these elements into the completed garment.

Pattern Structure and Construction

The cardigan is worked in separate pieces beginning with the back panel. The back is knitted to a specified length before shoulder shaping begins. The pattern provides detailed instructions for progressive cast-offs at the shoulder, with varying numbers of stitches cast off across multiple rows to create a shaped armhole. Neck shaping on the back involves casting off a group of stitches at the center back neck, then working each shoulder separately with simultaneous decreases at the neck edge to create a refined curve. The front pieces are worked following similar shaping principles but with adjustments to accommodate the cardigan opening. The pattern accommodates five different size options, with specific row counts and stitch quantities provided for each size to ensure proper fit and proportion.