Year Round Little Cardigan Knitting Pattern

Year Round Little Cardigan Knitting Pattern

Project Overview

The Year Round Little Cardigan is an advanced knitting pattern designed by Melissa Leapman for Cascade Yarns. This versatile cardigan is crafted from Cascade Ultra Pima yarn and offers a refined, wearable garment suitable for multiple seasons. The pattern is available in four sizes: Small, Medium, Large, and 1X, with finished bust measurements ranging from 36½ inches to 57 inches and a consistent finished length of 22 inches.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

This cardigan requires Cascade Ultra Pima yarn in colorway #3704, with yardage quantities of 5 hanks for Small, 6 hanks for Medium, 7 hanks for Large, and 8 hanks for 1X sizes. Knitters will need one pair each of size 4 and size 5 knitting needles, or the size necessary to achieve the specified gauge. The pattern calls for one 7/8-inch button, with the sample garment featuring JHB International's Bijan Style #30240.

Gauge and Tension

Achieving proper gauge is essential for this advanced project. The pattern specifies a gauge of 22 stitches and 32 rows over 4 inches when working the main pattern with the larger needles. Knitters are strongly advised to swatch and check gauge before beginning, as gauge accuracy directly impacts the finished measurements and fit of the cardigan.

Stitch Patterns and Techniques

The Year Round Little Cardigan incorporates multiple stitch patterns that create visual interest and texture throughout the garment:

• Border Pattern: A charted pattern with a multiple of 16 stitches plus 1 that frames the lower edge of the cardigan, worked over approximately 1½ inches using the smaller needles
• Main Pattern: A charted stitch pattern with the same 16-stitch multiple plus 1 that forms the primary fabric of the garment, worked with the larger needles for the majority of the piece
• Garter Stitch: Used strategically throughout the pattern, created by knitting every row on the right side

Construction Method

This cardigan is constructed using a traditional flat knitting method with separate pieces that are assembled. The garment consists of a back panel and two front panels, allowing for precise shaping at the armholes, shoulders, and neckline. The pattern uses a graduated approach to sizing, with stitch counts adjusted for each size throughout the construction process.

Shaping and Fit Details

The cardigan features tailored shaping for a refined silhouette. Armhole shaping is achieved through bind-offs at the beginning of rows, with the number of stitches bound off varying by size. Shoulder shaping is accomplished through multiple bind-off rows at the beginning of successive rows, creating a sloped shoulder line. Neckline shaping on the front panels involves graduated bind-offs and decreases to create a comfortable, flattering neck opening suitable for button closure.

Skill Level Considerations

Classified as an advanced knitting pattern, this project requires proficiency with charted stitch patterns, multiple shaping techniques, and the ability to work with pattern repeats across varying stitch counts. Knitters should be comfortable reading charts, managing stitch counts through decreases and bind-offs, and assembling finished pieces. The pattern's complexity is balanced by the use of a smooth, easy-to-work yarn that showcases stitch definition.