Tina Cardigan Knitting Pattern

Tina Cardigan in Berroco Bestie

What Is Being Made

The Tina Cardigan is an easy-level knitted cardigan designed by Mel Kennelly. This garment offers a relaxed, comfortable fit with nine size options ranging from 35 inches to 72 inches bust measurement. The cardigan features a modern construction method with the body worked in one continuous piece from the bottom up, followed by top-down sleeves and a flat front neckband. The finished length ranges from approximately 19½ to 22 inches, making this a versatile piece suitable for layering.

Construction Techniques

The Tina Cardigan employs a contemporary knitting construction approach that minimizes seaming and simplifies the building process. The body is knitted as a single piece from the lower edge upward until the armholes are reached, at which point the piece is divided for sleeve placement. This method creates a seamless integration between the body sections and reduces finishing work. Sleeves are picked up from the armhole edges and worked downward in the round, a technique that eliminates the need for sleeve seams. The front bands and neckline are picked up and worked flat after the main body is complete, allowing for precise shaping and finishing of these visible edges.

Stitches Used

The Tina Cardigan features two primary stitch patterns. Seed Stitch is used for the lower edge sections, creating a textured, reversible fabric with excellent drape and visual interest. This stitch is worked over an even number of stitches, alternating knit and purl stitches in each row to create its characteristic bumpy appearance. Stockinette Stitch is employed for the main body and sleeves, providing a smooth, classic knit fabric that showcases the yarn's color and texture. The pattern notes that the lower edge in Seed Stitch will be slightly wider than the bust measurement, adding subtle A-line shaping to the silhouette.

Materials: Yarn and Needles

The Tina Cardigan is designed to be knitted with Berroco Bestie yarn, a worsted-weight fiber available in 50-gram balls. The color shown in the pattern is #10513 Mac & Cheese, a warm, cheerful hue. Yardage requirements vary by size, ranging from 9 balls for the smallest size to 17 balls for the largest size. Knitters will need US size 11 (8 mm) and US size 13 (9 mm) circular needles measuring 32 inches in length for the main body and ribbing work. Additionally, a set of US size 13 (9 mm) double-pointed needles or preferred needles for small circumferences is required for working the sleeves in the round. Standard notions include stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats and shaping points, and a tapestry needle for weaving in yarn ends during finishing.

Gauge and Fit

Achieving proper gauge is essential for this pattern's success. The recommended gauge is 9 stitches and 16 rows over 4 inches in Seed Stitch using the larger needle, and 10 stitches and 14 rows over 4 inches in Stockinette Stitch using the larger needle. Gauge is measured after blocking, so knitters should take time to block their gauge swatch before beginning the project to ensure accurate finished measurements. The pattern recommends approximately 2 to 4 inches of positive ease for a comfortable, relaxed fit. It is important to note that the front bands do not meet at the center, and bust sizes are calculated based on back width rather than total circumference.

Skill Level and Accessibility

Designated as an Easy skill level, the Tina Cardigan is accessible to beginner knitters who have mastered basic knit and purl stitches. The straightforward construction, combined with the use of only two fundamental stitch patterns, makes this an excellent project for building confidence in garment construction. The top-down sleeve method and picked-up neckband are valuable techniques that many knitters appreciate for their precision and minimal finishing requirements.