Vine Cardigan Knitting Pattern

Vine Cardigan in Rowan Handknit Cotton

What is Being Made

The Vine Cardigan is an intermediate-level knitted cardigan designed to fit bust measurements ranging from 71–76 cm (28–30 inches) up to 152–157 cm (60–62 inches). This garment features prominent cable panel detailing as the primary design element, with stockinette stitch forming the body and side sections. The cardigan is photographed in Bleached, a natural colorway of Rowan Handknit Cotton.

Techniques Used

This pattern employs several key knitting techniques suited to intermediate-level crafters. Cable work is the signature technique, with two decorative cable panels positioned symmetrically across the front and back of the garment. The cable panels measure 19.5 cm wide and repeat over a 50-row pattern cycle, requiring careful stitch placement and manipulation. Shaping is incorporated throughout the construction, including shoulder shaping achieved through strategic cast-offs and back neck shaping to create a finished neckline. The pattern uses stockinette stitch as the primary background fabric, allowing the cable panels to stand out visually. Knitters must maintain pattern accuracy while simultaneously managing garment shaping across multiple sizes.

Stitches Used

• Stockinette stitch (st st): Forms the main fabric at the center and sides of the cardigan, creating a smooth, classic knit appearance
• Cable panels: A 43-stitch, 50-row repeating pattern that creates textured raised designs; requires a cable needle to cross stitches and form the twisted rope-like effect characteristic of cable knitting
• Knit and purl stitches: The foundational stitches that comprise both the stockinette sections and the cable panel construction
• Cast-off stitches: Used extensively for shoulder shaping and finishing edges, with varying numbers of stitches cast off across different size options

Materials and Tools

This cardigan is knitted using Rowan Handknit Cotton, a natural fiber yarn supplied in 50-gram balls. The pattern requires 18–21 balls depending on the chosen size. Two needle sizes are essential: 3.25mm (UK size 10 / US size 3) needles for ribbed edgings and 4mm (UK size 8 / US size 6) needles for the main body fabric. A cable needle is required for manipulating stitches during cable panel construction. The tension specification is 20 stitches and 28 rows over 10 centimeters when measured in stockinette stitch using the 4mm needles, ensuring proper garment dimensions and drape.