Thimble Cardigan Knitting Pattern

Thimble Cardigan in Rowan Pure Alpaca

What is Being Made

The Thimble Cardigan is a classic knitted cardigan designed by Martin Storey, available in nine sizes to fit chest measurements ranging from 71–76 cm (28–30 inches) up to 152–157 cm (60–62 inches). This intermediate-level garment features a structured construction with shaped armholes, set-in sleeves, and a button front closure, making it a versatile layering piece suitable for various occasions.

Knitting Techniques Used

The pattern employs several fundamental and intermediate knitting techniques to create its tailored silhouette. Ribbed edgings are worked at the cast-on to create elasticated cuffs and borders. Decreasing is used strategically to shape the garment, with single decreases worked at each end of rows to form tapered armholes and side seams. Shoulder shaping is achieved through graduated cast-offs at the beginning of rows, creating a smooth cap sleeve head. Neckline shaping involves casting off stitches in stages to form a classic crew neck, with the center front stitches held on a stitch holder for the button band. The pattern maintains stitch pattern continuity throughout shaping, requiring careful attention to pattern alignment during decreases and cast-offs.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The Thimble Cardigan utilizes essential knitting stitches to create its refined appearance. Knit and purl stitches form the foundation of the fabric, with 2x2 ribbing (alternating two knit stitches with two purl stitches) used for the cuff and front band sections. This ribbed stitch pattern provides elasticity and helps the garment maintain its shape. The main body appears to be worked in a stockinette or similar smooth stitch pattern that showcases the luxurious qualities of the yarn. The ribbed sections are established early in the pattern and maintained throughout, requiring knitters to read and follow stitch pattern instructions carefully, particularly when shaping occurs.

Materials: Yarn and Needles

The Thimble Cardigan is designed to be knitted in Rowan Pure Alpaca, a 50-gram ball weight yarn that provides a soft, lustrous finish. The pattern calls for three colorway options: Mizzle (color A), Camel (color B), and Thunder (color C), with varying yardage requirements per size. Knitters will need 3¼mm (US 3) needles for the ribbed sections and 3¾mm (US 5) needles for the main body fabric, allowing for the characteristic gauge change that occurs with alpaca yarn. A 3¼mm (US 3) circular needle measuring at least 120 cm long is required for working the front band. The pattern specifies a tension of 26 stitches over a measured distance, which is critical for achieving the correct finished measurements. Five 18mm pale coco shell buttons (Textile Garden reference TGB4915) complete the cardigan's front closure.

Pattern Construction Details

The Thimble Cardigan is constructed using the classic method of knitting separate pieces—back, left front, right front, and sleeves—which are then seamed together. The back piece begins with a cast-on of 97 to 187 stitches depending on size, with decreasing worked at the sides to create a fitted waist. Armhole shaping occurs through paired decreases at each end of rows over several rows, followed by alternate row decreases for a gradual taper. The front pieces mirror the back shaping while incorporating the button band stitches held on a stitch holder. This construction method allows knitters to work at a comfortable pace and make adjustments as needed before seaming, making it an excellent intermediate project for developing garment construction skills.