Twist Collective Rhona Cardigan Knitting Pattern

Rhona Cardigan by Glenna C – Knit Cable Cardigan Pattern

What is Being Made

Rhona is a classic cardigan designed by Glenna C, featured in Twist Collective. This garment is a button-front cardigan available in six sizes ranging from 36 ½ inches to 58 ½ inches bust measurement (92.5 to 148.5 cm). The cardigan is designed to be worn with 3–5 inches (7.5–12.5 cm) of ease for a comfortable, relaxed fit. The finished length ranges from 23 ¾ to 25 ¾ inches (60.5 to 65.5 cm) depending on size.

Construction Technique

Rhona is worked using the bottom-up construction method, meaning the knitter begins at the lower edge and works upward toward the shoulders. The cardigan is worked flat in separate pieces—including the back, left front, and right front panels—which are then seamed together to create the finished garment. This modular approach allows for precise shaping and easier adjustments during the knitting process. The button band and collar are picked up and worked in the round using a circular needle after the main body pieces are complete.

Cable Patterns and Stitches

The design features cable patterns that are presented in chart form within the pattern. The primary stitch used throughout much of the garment is Double Moss stitch, a textured stitch that creates a subtle, reversible fabric. Double Moss stitch is worked over four rows in a two-by-two knit and purl repeat:

• Rows 1 and 2: Knit 2, purl 2, repeating to the last 2 stitches, then knit 2
• Rows 3 and 4: Purl 2, knit 2, repeating to the last 2 stitches, then purl 2

This stitch creates visual interest while maintaining a structured appearance suitable for a classic cardigan silhouette.

Shaping Details

The cardigan features armhole shaping achieved by binding off stitches at the beginning of rows, followed by decreases worked on right-side rows using knit-two-together and slip-slip-knit decreases. Shoulder shaping is accomplished through a series of bind-offs at graduated intervals, creating a tailored fit. Decreases are strategically placed one stitch in from the edges to create a neat, finished appearance.

Materials and Needles

The suggested yarn is Briggs & Little Heritage, a 100% wool yarn that provides durability and classic drape. Each hank contains 215 yards (196.5 meters) and weighs 4 ounces (113 grams). The pattern requires 6–10 hanks depending on the size being knitted. The recommended needles are Size 7 US (4.5 mm) for the initial cast-on and ribbing sections, and Size 6 US (4 mm) for the main body and shaping. A Size 6 US (4 mm) circular needle measuring 32 inches (80 cm) is used for the button band and collar. Additional notions include six buttons measuring ¾ inch (19 mm) wide, stitch markers, a cable needle, and sewing needle with thread matching the yarn color for seaming.

Finishing Elements

The cardigan closes with six buttons spaced along the button band. The pattern includes detailed instructions for shaping the button band and collar, which are worked after the main body pieces are seamed together. This construction method ensures a professional finish with proper button placement and a neat neckline.