Universal Yarn Karakum Kimono Coat Knitting Pattern

Universal Yarn Karakum Kimono

What is Being Made

The Karakum Kimono is an oversized cardigan-style coat designed by Rachel Brockman. This garment features a relaxed, kimono-inspired silhouette with a generous positive ease of 21 inches in the modeled size. The finished width ranges from 26½ inches (Extra Small/Small/Medium) to 35¾ inches (3X/4X), with lengths between 27 and 30 inches depending on size. This piece is ideal for layering and offers a comfortable, flowing fit suitable for casual and versatile styling.

Techniques Used

The Karakum Kimono is constructed using several key knitting techniques that ensure both structural integrity and visual interest. The garment is worked flat in individual pieces rather than in the round, allowing for easier stitch manipulation and pattern work. All pieces are seamed together after completion, which provides important stability to the oversized construction and prevents excessive stretching. The bottom-up construction method means knitters begin at the lower edge and work upward toward the shoulders and neckline, making it easy to try on and adjust length as needed.

Stitches Used

This design incorporates multiple stitch patterns to create visual depth and texture:

• Fleck Stitch: A textured stitch worked over a multiple of 10 stitches plus 1. The pattern alternates between yarn overs and decreases (ssk and k2tog) on the right-side rows, creating a delicate, scattered texture. Wrong-side rows are purled to allow the pattern to develop clearly. This stitch is repeated every 4 rows and provides a subtle, sophisticated fabric texture.
• Arrowhead Lace: A contrasting lace pattern featuring yarn overs and a centered double decrease (sl 2-k1-p2sso) that creates distinctive arrowhead or chevron motifs. This lace stitch adds an elegant, decorative element to the kimono.
• Seed Stitch: A classic reversible stitch created by alternating knit and purl stitches across each row. The pattern is worked over an odd number of stitches, with knit stitches offset by purl stitches on alternating rows, creating a bumpy, textured fabric.
• Multicolor Seed Stitch: A variation of seed stitch worked with multiple colors (the main color Wolf, plus contrasting colors Adobe and Rose Villa), creating a striped effect. Rows alternate between the main color and contrasting colors while maintaining the seed stitch structure, adding visual interest and color variation.

Materials

The Karakum Kimono is knit using Fibra Natura Unity yarn, a blend of natural fibers consisting of 36% wool, 28% cotton, 18% linen, and 18% bamboo. This fiber composition creates a breathable, durable fabric with excellent drape. Each skein contains 262 yards and weighs 100 grams.

The yarn is available in three colors for this project:

• Wolf (MC – Main Color): 6 to 9 skeins depending on size
• Adobe (CC1 – Contrast Color 1): 1 skein for all sizes
• Rose Villa (CC2 – Contrast Color 2): 1 skein for all sizes

Needles required are US Size 7 (4.5 mm) circular needles, 32 inches long, to accommodate the larger number of stitches needed for this oversized garment. Additional notions include stitch markers, a tapestry needle for seaming and weaving in ends, and stitch holders or waste yarn for securing live stitches during construction.

Gauge and Construction Notes

The pattern is worked at a gauge of 18 stitches and 24 rows over 4 inches in Fleck Stitch. Checking gauge before beginning is essential to ensure proper fit and finished measurements. The design includes options for both larger and smaller sleeves across all sizes, allowing knitters to customize the fit to their preferences. The pattern notes describe the knitting experience as an adventure, with special details including striped seed stitch sections, contrasting lace elements, and decorative short fringe accents that make this kimono a distinctive and rewarding project for intermediate to advanced knitters.