" Nettie " - Cardigan Knitting Pattern For Women in Debbie Bliss Donegal Luxury Tweed Aran by Debbie Bliss

Nettie Cardigan Knitting Pattern by Debbie Bliss

What is Being Made

The Nettie Cardigan is a women's cardigan knitting pattern designed by Debbie Bliss. This garment is available in five sizes to fit bust measurements ranging from 82-86 cm (32-34 inches) up to 122-127 cm (48-50 inches), with finished bust measurements from 123 cm (48½ inches) to 166 cm (65½ inches). The cardigan features a length to shoulder ranging from 64 cm to 72 cm (25¼ to 28¼ inches), and sleeve length of 44 cm (17¼ inches) with a turned-back cuff.

Knitting Techniques

This intermediate-level cardigan is constructed using several key knitting techniques. The garment is worked flat on straight needles rather than in the round, allowing for straightforward construction of the front and back panels. The pattern employs a bottom-up construction method, meaning knitters begin at the lower edge and work upward toward the shoulders and neckline. The cardigan features seamed construction, with pieces sewn together upon completion. Buttonholes are incorporated into the pattern design, and the finished cardigan is fastened with buttons, providing both functional closure and decorative detail.

Stitches and Stitch Techniques

The pattern utilizes fundamental knitting stitches and techniques appropriate for an intermediate skill level. Core stitches include knit and purl stitches, which form the foundation of the stitch patterns used throughout the garment. The pattern incorporates decreases for shaping the armholes, neckline, and sleeve caps. Slip stitches are used in the pattern, including the technique of slipping stitches through the back loop for refined edges. The pattern also includes skpo (slip, knit, pass slipped stitch over) decreases for decorative shaping. Additional stitch techniques include yarn-over wraps, where yarn is wrapped twice around the needle for textural effects, and standard pattern repeats that create the fabric's visual interest.

Materials and Yarn

The Nettie Cardigan pattern is specifically designed for use with Debbie Bliss yarns in Aran and DK yarn weights. The pattern calls for three complementary Debbie Bliss yarns:

• Debbie Bliss Donegal Luxury Tweed Aran in Pebble 42 (A): 400g for the smallest size, increasing to 500g for the largest size
• Debbie Bliss Cashmerino Aran in Silver 202 (B): 9 to 11 balls of 50g each, depending on size
• Debbie Bliss Erin Tweed in Moss 11 (C): Two 50g balls for all sizes

Needles and Equipment

The pattern requires two pairs of straight needles: 4.5mm (US 7) needles and 5mm (US 8) needles. A circular 4.5mm (US 7) needle is also needed, likely for finishing details such as neckbands or button bands. Six buttons are required to complete the cardigan, serving as both fasteners and design elements on the front opening.

This downloadable PDF pattern from Debbie Bliss represents an intermediate-level project suitable for knitters with foundational skills who are ready to tackle garment construction with multiple pieces, shaping techniques, and finishing details.