Twist Collective Undercut Cardigan Knitting Pattern

Twist Collective Undercut Cardigan

What is Being Made

The Undercut is a seamless, top-down cardigan designed by M K Nance for Twist Collective. This garment features a sophisticated construction that begins at the shoulders and progresses downward, with finished bust measurements ranging from 32 to 51 inches (81.5 to 129.5 cm) and lengths from 22 ¼ to 27 ¾ inches (56.5 to 70.5 cm). The cardigan is intended to be worn with 0–1 inch (0–2.5 cm) of ease, making it a versatile layering piece suitable for various body types and styling preferences.

Construction Techniques

The Undercut employs a seamless, top-down construction method that minimizes finishing work and ensures excellent fit. The garment is worked primarily flat, with specific sections worked in the round where appropriate. The construction sequence begins with the Back panel, which is shaped using short rows to create custom shoulder shaping. Stitches for each Front are then picked up directly from the Back cast-on edge and worked separately to the underarm. At the underarm, the Front and Back pieces are joined and worked back and forth to the hem in one continuous piece. Sleeve stitches are subsequently picked up around the armholes and shaped using additional short rows to create well-fitted sleeve caps. This method eliminates the need for seaming and allows for precise shaping throughout the garment.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The Undercut features lace stitch patterns worked from either written instructions or charts. The garment incorporates a K2, P2 Rib pattern, which is worked in rows and uses a multiple of 4 stitches plus 2. The ribbing is constructed as follows: on wrong-side rows, the pattern alternates between purling 2 stitches and knitting 2 stitches, repeating to the final 2 stitches which are purled. On right-side rows, the pattern reverses, with knit 2 stitches alternating with purl 2 stitches, ending with knit 2 stitches. The garment also features two distinct lace motifs: Motif 1 and Motif 2, each measuring 13 or 17 stitches depending on the size being knitted. These motifs are worked simultaneously with the garment shaping, requiring careful attention to pattern placement and stitch count management.

Materials: Yarn and Needles

The suggested yarn for the Undercut is Mrs Crosby Hat Box, a luxury blend containing 75% Merino wool, 15% silk, and 10% cashmere. Each hank provides 317 yards (290 meters) and weighs 3 ½ ounces (100 grams). The pattern calls for 3 hanks of yarn in the Hollywood Cerise colorway, providing sufficient yardage for any size within the range offered.

The needle requirements include Size 2 US (2.75 mm) circular needles in lengths of 24–48 inches (60–120 cm), with the specific length depending on the bust size being knitted. Additional Size 1 ½ US (2.5 mm) circular needles in the same length range are also required. Needles in the knitter's preferred style for small circumference knitting in the round are recommended, allowing flexibility in needle material and construction (such as fixed circulars, interchangeable systems, or double-pointed needles).

Pattern Features and Considerations

Knitters should note that stitch pattern and shaping are worked simultaneously throughout the garment, requiring careful reading of all instructions before beginning. The use of removable markers and pattern markers is essential for tracking motif placement and managing the various sections of the garment. The seamless construction and lace patterning combine to create a refined, modern cardigan suitable for both experienced and intermediate knitters who are comfortable working with charts and managing multiple pattern elements concurrently.