Ursa Cardigan Knitting Pattern

Ursa Cardigan in Rowan Kid Classic

What is Being Made

The Ursa Cardigan is a knitted cardigan designed by Martin Storey for Rowan. This garment is a button-front cardigan available in multiple sizes to fit bust measurements ranging from 71–76 cm up to 152–157 cm. The cardigan features a structured construction with shaped shoulders, a back neck shaping, and a left front opening edge, making it a versatile layering piece suitable for various occasions.

Techniques Used

This intermediate-level knitting project employs several key techniques throughout its construction. The pattern uses cast-on and cast-off methods to establish and finish edges, with strategic shaping at the armholes and shoulders to create a fitted silhouette. Decreasing is used at the neck edge to create a refined neckline, while the pattern maintains stitch accuracy across multiple size variations. The cardigan incorporates pattern work that must be kept correct throughout shaping, requiring the knitter to balance decorative elements with structural changes. The garment is worked in separate pieces—back and fronts—which are then assembled, a standard construction method for cardigans that allows for precise fit and finishing.

Stitches Used

The Ursa Cardigan uses a combination of fundamental and textured stitches. The pattern features knit and purl stitches arranged in a repeating motif: the sequence *P1, K3* is repeated across rows, creating visual texture and interest. The front opening edge is worked in rib stitch using (K1, P1) alternation over 6 stitches, which provides elasticity and a neat, finished edge ideal for a button band. This rib structure helps the cardigan maintain its shape and provides a professional appearance at the front opening where buttons will be placed.

Materials

The Ursa Cardigan is knitted using Rowan Kid Classic yarn, a 50-gram ball weight. The pattern requires between 9 and 17 balls depending on the size being made, with larger sizes requiring more yardage. Two needle sizes are essential: 4mm (US 6) needles are used for cast-on and initial ribbed sections, while 5mm (US 8) needles are used for the main body pattern work. The tension is set at 23 stitches and 26 rows to 10 centimeters measured over the pattern using the 5mm needles. The cardigan is finished with 5 metal buttons measuring 2.2 cm each, and a cable needle is included in the materials list for any cable techniques that may appear in the full pattern. The yarn is available in multiple colorways, including the photographed Champagne 898 and an Alternative Colourway in Peppermint 918.