Tilly Cardigan Knitting Pattern

Tilly Cardigan in Juniper Moon Moonshine

What is Being Made

The Tilly Cardigan is a classic knitted cardigan sweater designed by Pamela Wynne as part of the Modern Amusements Collection. This garment is available in seven sizes ranging from XS to 3X, with finished bust measurements from 30 inches to 54 inches and a length between 17½ and 19¼ inches. The cardigan features a button-front closure with nine 3/8-inch buttons and is constructed using a combination of textured and smooth knit stitches.

Techniques Used

The Tilly Cardigan employs several key knitting techniques to create its finished structure. The garment begins with ribbed edging worked on smaller needles to create a fitted border. The main body is constructed using reverse stockinette stitch, which creates a textured, bumpy surface that contrasts with smoother sections. Shaping is achieved through strategic decreasing at the armholes and neckline to create a fitted silhouette. The pattern uses both circular and double-pointed needles, allowing for seamless construction and the ability to work both flat and in the round as needed for different sections of the garment.

Stitches Used

• Reverse Stockinette Stitch: Formed by purling on right-side rows and knitting on wrong-side rows, creating the bumpy texture on the exterior of the cardigan
• Twisted Rib: A textured ribbing pattern that combines knit and purl stitches with twisted stitches (knit through back loop), creating an elastic and decorative edge
• Stockinette Stitch: The foundational smooth knit stitch used throughout the garment
• Decreases: Including purl 2 together (p2tog) and other decrease methods used to shape the armholes and neckline
• Bind Off: Used to secure stitches at edges and create finished openings for the neck and armholes

Materials

The Tilly Cardigan is knitted using Juniper Moon Farm Moonshine yarn in color #30 Sun Haze. The yardage requirement varies by size, requiring between 4 and 7 hanks depending on the finished size selected. The pattern calls for US 7 (4.5mm) circular and double-pointed needles as the primary needles, with US 6 (4mm) double-pointed needles used for the ribbed sections. Additional notions include nine 3/8-inch buttons for the front closure, a cable needle for any cable work, a tapestry needle for seaming and finishing, and stitch markers to track pattern repeats. The recommended gauge is 20 stitches and 28 rows over 4 inches in stockinette stitch on the larger needles, ensuring proper fit across all sizes.