Willow & Lark Tessa Cardigan Knitting Pattern

Willow & Lark Tessa Cardigan

What is Being Made

The Tessa Cardigan is a fitted cardigan with a neck tie, designed by Jennie Atkinson as part of The Best of British Collection. This sophisticated garment features a nipped-in waist created through rich textured cluster stitch, English tailored shoulder seams, and a decorative tie at the neckline. The design appeals to vintage style enthusiasts and works equally well for smart occasions, afternoon tea, or casual styling with jeans and summer dresses. Available in six sizes to fit bust measurements from 81cm to 107cm (32 to 42 inches), with finished bust measurements ranging from 86cm to 114cm (33¾ to 45 inches).

Techniques Used

This advanced-level knitting project employs several key construction techniques:

• Worked Flat: The cardigan is knitted flat on straight needles rather than in the round, allowing for traditional seaming and shaping
• Seamed Construction: Pieces are joined together using seaming techniques, including English tailored shoulder seams that create a refined, structured finish
• Buttonholes: Nine buttons are incorporated throughout the cardigan front, requiring precise buttonhole placement and execution
• Cluster Stitch Shaping: The waist shaping is achieved through the strategic use of cluster stitch patterning, which creates visual definition and fitted silhouette

Stitches Used

The Tessa Cardigan combines multiple stitch techniques to achieve its distinctive appearance. Stocking stitch forms the foundation of the garment, providing a smooth, classic base. The signature design element is the cluster stitch, which is worked using the abbreviation 3(P3tog, yon, P3tog) all into next 3 sts. This textured cluster pattern is strategically placed to create the fitted waist and rich visual texture that defines the cardigan's vintage-inspired aesthetic. The combination of these stitches requires attention to tension and stitch consistency throughout the project.

Materials and Tools

The Tessa Cardigan is designed to be knitted using Willow & Lark Nest yarn, a premium DK-weight blend composed of 69% wool, 11% cashmere, and 20% Tencel. Each ball weighs 50g (1¾oz). Yarn requirements vary by size, ranging from 9 balls for smaller sizes to 11 balls for the largest size. The pattern recommends using the specified yarn to achieve the intended finished appearance, as fiber composition, weight, twist, and characteristics significantly impact the final garment look.

Required knitting needles include one pair of 3.75mm (UK 9, US 5) needles and one pair of 4.00mm (UK 8, US 6) needles. The project also requires nine buttons for the front closure. Tension is critical for success: 22 stitches and 30 rows to 10cm (4 inches) measured over stocking stitch using 4.00mm needles, and 27 stitches and 30 rows to 10cm (4 inches) measured over cluster pattern using the same needle size. Achieving correct tension ensures the cardigan fits as designed across all size options.

Design Details

The Tessa Cardigan is available in alternative colorways including Verdigris Green and Heather. The garment features a length ranging from 55cm to 60cm (21½ to 23½ inches) depending on size, with sleeve seams measuring approximately 44 to 46cm (17¼ to 18 inches). The sophisticated neck tie adds a refined finishing touch that elevates the cardigan's vintage charm while maintaining modern wearability.