Andes chunky cardigan

Andes Chunky Cardigan Knitting Pattern by Neringa Ruke

What is Being Made

The Andes V Neck Cardigan is a short-style knitted sweater designed to be worn with high-waisted jeans, skirts, or shorts. This cardigan features a flattering V-neckline and is constructed with a structured waist, making it a versatile layering piece suitable for various occasions. The garment is available in eight sizes ranging from XS to 4X, with sizing recommendations to be worn with approximately 10 to 15 centimeters (3.9 to 5.9 inches) of positive ease for a comfortable, relaxed fit.

Construction Method and Techniques

The Andes cardigan is worked from the top down, a construction technique that allows knitters to try on the garment as it progresses and easily adjust length as needed. The V-neckline and front band are worked separately and added after the main cardigan body is completed, allowing for precise shaping and finishing. The cardigan features three large buttons that provide functional front closure and contribute to the garment's classic design aesthetic.

Stitches Used

This intermediate-level pattern incorporates rib stitch as a primary textural element. The rib stitch is featured prominently at the waist, creating definition and structure at the garment's midsection. Additionally, rib stitch cuffs decorate the straight sleeves, providing a neat, finished edge and helping the cuffs maintain their shape during wear. The combination of ribbed sections with the main body creates visual interest and functional elasticity.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The Andes cardigan is designed to be knitted with Drops Andes Mix yarn, a super-chunky weight yarn composed of 65% wool and 35% alpaca. This fiber blend offers warmth, softness, and a luxurious feel characteristic of alpaca blends. The yarn is available in color number 0619 and provides 90 meters (98 yards) per 100-gram (3.5-ounce) ball.

Yarn requirements vary by size:

• XS: 1300g (45.5 oz) / 13 balls / 1170m (1274 yds)
• S: 1400g (49 oz) / 14 balls / 1260m (1372 yds)
• M: 1500g (52.5 oz) / 15 balls / 1350m (1470 yds)
• L: 1600g (56 oz) / 16 balls / 1440m (1568 yds)
• XL: 1700g (59.5 oz) / 17 balls / 1530m (1666 yds)
• 2X: 1800g (63 oz) / 18 balls / 1620m (1764 yds)
• 3X: 1900g (66.5 oz) / 19 balls / 1710m (1862 yds)
• 4X: 2000g (70 oz) / 20 balls / 1800m (1960 yds)

Needles and Tools

The pattern calls for 8mm (US 11, UK 0) circular needles measuring 80 to 100 centimeters (32 to 40 inches) in length. Circular needles of this size are essential for working the top-down construction method and managing the larger stitch counts typical of super-chunky yarn projects. The needle size ensures proper gauge and fabric drape appropriate for the chunky yarn weight.

Skill Level

This pattern is rated as intermediate difficulty, making it suitable for knitters with foundational skills who are ready to tackle more complex shaping and construction techniques. The top-down construction method, V-neckline shaping, and separate band finishing require intermediate-level understanding of knitting fundamentals, but the chunky yarn weight allows stitches to work up quickly and visibly.